Wildlife Biologist

Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.

Educational Requirements

for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a bachelor’s degree. Those with a master’s degree have a competitive advantage in the labor market.

Knowledge

Examples of the knowledge needed for success in this occupation is listed below, in order of importance.
  • Biology: Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
  • English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Skills

Examples of the skills needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Active Listening: Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
  • Science: Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems.
  • Critical Thinking: Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
  • Reading Comprehension: Reading work-related information.
  • Writing: Writing things for co-workers or customers.

Abilities

Examples of the abilities needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Written Comprehension: Reading and understanding what is written.
  • Oral Comprehension: Listening and understanding what people say.
  • Written Expression: Communicating by writing.
  • Oral Expression: Communicating by speaking.
  • Problem Sensitivity: Noticing when problems happen.

Detailed Work Activities

Examples of the detailed work activities involved with this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Research environmental impact of industrial or development activities.
  • Measure environmental characteristics.
  • Plan biological research.
  • Advise others about environmental management or conservation.
  • Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.