Entry Level Biologist Jobs
New grad biologist jobs welcome recent graduates and entry level candidates with zero to two years of experience, where strong internship work or hands-on lab coursework can matter more than a lengthy resume. Most openings are on-site roles across Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Consulting & Professional Services, and Education, with employers like Freenome, ICF, and Axle hiring at this level now.
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Description
Title- Habitat Biologist
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time - Permanent
WDFW Program- Habitat Program
Duty Station- Montesano, Washington – Grays Harbor County
Hybrid/Telework- While this position offers a hybrid work arrangement, the successful candidate must be available to report to the Montesano, Washington regional office as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Twin Rivers Wildlife Area Unit – Photo Credit: WDFW
Join the WDFW team and help manage, protect, and restore ecosystems for the long-term benefit of both people and wildlife.
Envision yourself providing critical technical support to local jurisdictions on Critical Areas Ordinance and Shoreline Master Plans, and review low complexity permits under the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) process.
This is an opportunity to collaborate with conservation and community partners to incorporate multifaceted scientific perspectives into decision-making.
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Habitat Biologist will,
Help administer the Hydraulic Project Approval process in accordance with Chapter 77.55.RCW, 77.57.RCW, and Chapter 220-110-WAC (Hydraulic Code Rules):
- Review and issue low complexity HPA’s in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and agency policy and procedure manuals.
- Develop effective working relationships with emphasis on clear communication and a cooperative approach to resolving issues related to fish habitat conservation.
- Review permit applications and conduct field reviews to provide project assistance to applicants.
- Recommend alternative project designs and/or techniques, best management practices and measures to avoid, reduce or eliminate impacts to fish life.
Provide technical assistance to local governments implementing their fish and wildlife regulations under the Growth Management Act (GMA) and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Assist with writing comments to local government planning staff during the land use decision-making process as part of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Assist City and County planners and the public in using and interpreting Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) mapping.
- Provide, review and comment to local jurisdictions on Habitat Management Plans for small and medium-scale projects in accordance with local Critical Areas Ordinances.
- Coordinate with the local jurisdiction to assist landowners to comply with local land use ordinances.
Assist Habitat Biologists working on Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Practices reviews and with providing technical assistance for salmon recovery projects:
- Help with DNR Concurrence Reviews for impacts to fish habitat.
- Assist in Water Type Modification Interdisciplinary teams, applying advice on fish habitat conditions.
- Provide information on fish life histories and habitat requirements, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem functions, and promote conservation of fish and wildlife resources to stakeholders.
Working Conditions:
Work setting, including hazards:
- Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments and is primarily as part of a team but may occasionally work independently.
- Fieldwork involves operating vehicles in off road conditions and operating field equipment including GPS units, maps, clinometer, range finder, compasses. May operate electroshocking equipment.
- Fieldwork is conducted in remote forested and aquatic environments, conducting fish and wildlife surveys and other related tasks. Fieldwork may require 8-10 hours per day, for several consecutive days.
- Regularly walk over rough terrain for short distances (up to 1 mile) or occasionally over long distances over several miles.
- Navigate uneven terrain, stinging vegetation, insects, biting and pinching animals, and other possible encounters with wildlife.
- This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Typically, Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm. Hours are flexible to accommodate seasonal workload or additional duties as assigned by the regional program manager. A flexible work schedule may be requested, subject to supervisory approval. May work extended hours to complete assignments.
Travel Requirements: In the field 25-50% time doing project site visits or traveling to meetings throughout the state. May include extended travel and evening or overnight trips.
Tools and Equipment: Boots, GPS, clinometer, waders, rain gear, state-assigned work vehicle.
Customer Interactions:
- Interact with agency staff, other government agencies, tribes, private stakeholders, restoration partners, funders, and the public.
- Interact with the public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork and/or site visits. Occasionally may be confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative.
Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Required Qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And one (1) of the following:
- One (1) year of professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals.
- One (1) year of professional experience working in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.
- One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.
Please Note: A Master’s Degree or higher in the applicable science will substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
Certifications/Licenses: Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
- Experience conducting or assisting with Forest Practice reviews to determine the potential impacts to fish, habitat and aquatic resources.
- Experience providing technical assistance to support salmon recovery, fish habitat restoration, fish passage improvement or aquatic ecosystem conservation projects.
- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest including natural history of Washington salmonids.
- Experience with regulatory processes in Washington such as Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Demonstrated ability to build professional rapports and partnerships with the public, colleagues, tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies.
Your application must include the following:
- A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
Union - WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:
Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov.
- Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
+ Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-09403.
Know someone who would like to volunteer? WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
Description
Title- Habitat Biologist
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time - Permanent
WDFW Program- Habitat Program
Duty Station- Montesano, Washington – Grays Harbor County
Hybrid/Telework- While this position offers a hybrid work arrangement, the successful candidate must be available to report to the Montesano, Washington regional office as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Twin Rivers Wildlife Area Unit – Photo Credit: WDFW
Join the WDFW team and help manage, protect, and restore ecosystems for the long-term benefit of both people and wildlife.
Envision yourself providing critical technical support to local jurisdictions on Critical Areas Ordinance and Shoreline Master Plans, and review low complexity permits under the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) process.
This is an opportunity to collaborate with conservation and community partners to incorporate multifaceted scientific perspectives into decision-making.
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Habitat Biologist will,
Help administer the Hydraulic Project Approval process in accordance with Chapter 77.55.RCW, 77.57.RCW, and Chapter 220-110-WAC (Hydraulic Code Rules):
- Review and issue low complexity HPA’s in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and agency policy and procedure manuals.
- Develop effective working relationships with emphasis on clear communication and a cooperative approach to resolving issues related to fish habitat conservation.
- Review permit applications and conduct field reviews to provide project assistance to applicants.
- Recommend alternative project designs and/or techniques, best management practices and measures to avoid, reduce or eliminate impacts to fish life.
Provide technical assistance to local governments implementing their fish and wildlife regulations under the Growth Management Act (GMA) and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Assist with writing comments to local government planning staff during the land use decision-making process as part of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Assist City and County planners and the public in using and interpreting Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) mapping.
- Provide, review and comment to local jurisdictions on Habitat Management Plans for small and medium-scale projects in accordance with local Critical Areas Ordinances.
- Coordinate with the local jurisdiction to assist landowners to comply with local land use ordinances.
Assist Habitat Biologists working on Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Practices reviews and with providing technical assistance for salmon recovery projects:
- Help with DNR Concurrence Reviews for impacts to fish habitat.
- Assist in Water Type Modification Interdisciplinary teams, applying advice on fish habitat conditions.
- Provide information on fish life histories and habitat requirements, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem functions, and promote conservation of fish and wildlife resources to stakeholders.
Working Conditions:
Work setting, including hazards:
- Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments and is primarily as part of a team but may occasionally work independently.
- Fieldwork involves operating vehicles in off road conditions and operating field equipment including GPS units, maps, clinometer, range finder, compasses. May operate electroshocking equipment.
- Fieldwork is conducted in remote forested and aquatic environments, conducting fish and wildlife surveys and other related tasks. Fieldwork may require 8-10 hours per day, for several consecutive days.
- Regularly walk over rough terrain for short distances (up to 1 mile) or occasionally over long distances over several miles.
- Navigate uneven terrain, stinging vegetation, insects, biting and pinching animals, and other possible encounters with wildlife.
- This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Typically, Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm. Hours are flexible to accommodate seasonal workload or additional duties as assigned by the regional program manager. A flexible work schedule may be requested, subject to supervisory approval. May work extended hours to complete assignments.
Travel Requirements: In the field 25-50% time doing project site visits or traveling to meetings throughout the state. May include extended travel and evening or overnight trips.
Tools and Equipment: Boots, GPS, clinometer, waders, rain gear, state-assigned work vehicle.
Customer Interactions:
- Interact with agency staff, other government agencies, tribes, private stakeholders, restoration partners, funders, and the public.
- Interact with the public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork and/or site visits. Occasionally may be confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative.
Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Required Qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And one (1) of the following:
- One (1) year of professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals.
- One (1) year of professional experience working in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.
- One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.
Please Note: A Master’s Degree or higher in the applicable science will substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
Certifications/Licenses: Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
- Experience conducting or assisting with Forest Practice reviews to determine the potential impacts to fish, habitat and aquatic resources.
- Experience providing technical assistance to support salmon recovery, fish habitat restoration, fish passage improvement or aquatic ecosystem conservation projects.
- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest including natural history of Washington salmonids.
- Experience with regulatory processes in Washington such as Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Demonstrated ability to build professional rapports and partnerships with the public, colleagues, tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies.
Your application must include the following:
- A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
Union - WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:
Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov.
- Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
+ Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-09403.
Know someone who would like to volunteer? WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
See All 12 Entry Level Biologist Jobs
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Entry Level Biologist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an entry level biologist job?
Start by highlighting lab skills, coursework, and any internship or research experience on your resume, even if unpaid. Employers at this level look for familiarity with standard techniques like PCR, microscopy, or data collection, along with attention to detail and a science degree. A well-documented capstone project or thesis can give you a real edge over candidates with a bare resume.
Which companies hire entry level biologists?
Companies hiring entry level biologists right now include Freenome, ICF, and Axle, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Hiring at this level comes from a wide range of employers, including research institutions, biotech firms, environmental consulting companies, and government agencies that regularly bring on junior candidates to support lab and field work.
Are there remote entry level biologist jobs?
Yes, though most biologist roles at this level involve on-site lab or field work. About 30% of entry level biologist openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those positions tend to focus on data analysis, scientific writing, or regulatory review rather than hands-on laboratory tasks.
Are these new grad biologist jobs?
Yes, these listings include new grad, recent graduate, and junior biologist roles. A new grad friendly posting typically welcomes candidates with zero to two years of experience and treats internships, research assistantships, or a strong portfolio as equivalent to professional work history, so you do not need a long employment record to apply and compete seriously.
Which industries hire the most entry level biologists?
Entry Level biologist roles concentrate in Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Consulting & Professional Services, and Education, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive junior hiring because they depend on a steady pipeline of trained scientists to support ongoing research, quality testing, environmental monitoring, and regulatory compliance work that does not require years of independent experience.