Wildlife Biologist Jobs for OPT Students
Wildlife Biologist roles qualify for F-1 OPT when your degree is in biology, ecology, zoology, or a closely related field. Many positions are with federal and state agencies, nonprofits, and research institutions, some of which are cap-exempt employers, giving you more H-1B sponsorship flexibility after OPT.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields with dedication, a creative spirit, and a vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties worldwide and are devoted to fostering a community of diverse talents, backgrounds, and expertise. Here, you can apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental professionals on work that’s vital to our clients and the communities they serve.
Join a team that’s naturally committed to the environment.
ROLE
Stantec’s Environmental Services team is seeking an Environmental Scientist/Wildlife Biologist to provide environmental field surveys, reporting, and permitting support for clients in the renewable energy, transportation, oil & gas, and other business sectors. Successful applicants will assist our team of environmental professionals on environmental impact analysis, wildlife surveys, as well as wetlands, stream, and vegetation assessments/monitoring, and endangered species surveys across Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Missouri and the Southeast. This position can be based out of Arkansas, Oklahoma, or Louisiana and will work in a hybrid or remote capacity depending on distance to a Stantec office. As an Environmental Scientist, you will work in a highly dynamic team environment with other biologists/ecologists/water resource specialists, ecosystem restoration engineers, NEPA specialists, environmental planners, and regulatory experts. This position will include opportunities for both field and office work; it may also involve extensive travel and up to 5 – 10 days at a time in the field and away from home.
YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct varied wildlife and threatened & endangered species habitat surveys and assessments
- Support Bat mist-net surveys, Bat acoustic surveys, Acoustic data analysis and Wildlife radio-tracking
- Provide technical expertise in field data collection (e.g., wetlands, habitats, wildlife, water quality), assessment, planning, regulatory consultation, environmental permitting, and restoration projects
- Prepare documentation pursuant to NEPA, USACE, EPA, USFWS, and other federal, state and local regulatory/permitting programs
- Assist with environmental permit applications and endangered resource record reviews
- Assist with and prepare portions of written reports, tables, spreadsheets, databases, and maps for client and regulatory agency review
- Technical report and memorandum writing
- Take initiative, resolve problems, and create improved procedures to ensure that tasks are completed in the most effective, safe, and efficient manner
- Maintain Stantec’s high standard of quality control and quality assurance
- Effective communication with colleagues, clients, and agency personnel
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience or knowledge conducting fieldwork, including wildlife and threatened & endangered species habitat surveys and assessments
- Experience setting acoustic detectors for survey and data download, organization, and analysis using automated software programs. Manual vetting experience a plus
- Strong problem-solution orientation, detail oriented and resourceful
- Flexible, team-oriented approach, with the willingness and desire to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
- Effective time management and follow-through, with the ability to simultaneously work on and potentially lead multiple tasks subject to project deadlines
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Word & Excel
- Ability to travel to work locations with some overnight travel capacity
- Valid Driver’s License and good driving record
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline from an accredited university is required
- Minimum 1-3 years of related, professional experience
- Willingness to travel and conduct field work in potentially remote areas for extended periods (up to 5-10 days at a time) including overnight travel is expected for this position.
Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather. This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
ABOUT STANTEC
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.
StayInquisitive
Pay Transparency: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
Benefits Summary: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
LOCATION
Primary Location: United States | OK | Tulsa
ORGANIZATION: BC-2353 EnvSvcs-US Gulf West
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Regular
BUSINESS JUSTIFICATION: New Position
TRAVEL: Yes
SCHEDULE: Full time
JOB POSTING: 02/02/2026 03:02:34
REQ ID: 1004034
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.
INTRODUCTION
Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields with dedication, a creative spirit, and a vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties worldwide and are devoted to fostering a community of diverse talents, backgrounds, and expertise. Here, you can apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental professionals on work that’s vital to our clients and the communities they serve.
Join a team that’s naturally committed to the environment.
ROLE
Stantec’s Environmental Services team is seeking an Environmental Scientist/Wildlife Biologist to provide environmental field surveys, reporting, and permitting support for clients in the renewable energy, transportation, oil & gas, and other business sectors. Successful applicants will assist our team of environmental professionals on environmental impact analysis, wildlife surveys, as well as wetlands, stream, and vegetation assessments/monitoring, and endangered species surveys across Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Missouri and the Southeast. This position can be based out of Arkansas, Oklahoma, or Louisiana and will work in a hybrid or remote capacity depending on distance to a Stantec office. As an Environmental Scientist, you will work in a highly dynamic team environment with other biologists/ecologists/water resource specialists, ecosystem restoration engineers, NEPA specialists, environmental planners, and regulatory experts. This position will include opportunities for both field and office work; it may also involve extensive travel and up to 5 – 10 days at a time in the field and away from home.
YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct varied wildlife and threatened & endangered species habitat surveys and assessments
- Support Bat mist-net surveys, Bat acoustic surveys, Acoustic data analysis and Wildlife radio-tracking
- Provide technical expertise in field data collection (e.g., wetlands, habitats, wildlife, water quality), assessment, planning, regulatory consultation, environmental permitting, and restoration projects
- Prepare documentation pursuant to NEPA, USACE, EPA, USFWS, and other federal, state and local regulatory/permitting programs
- Assist with environmental permit applications and endangered resource record reviews
- Assist with and prepare portions of written reports, tables, spreadsheets, databases, and maps for client and regulatory agency review
- Technical report and memorandum writing
- Take initiative, resolve problems, and create improved procedures to ensure that tasks are completed in the most effective, safe, and efficient manner
- Maintain Stantec’s high standard of quality control and quality assurance
- Effective communication with colleagues, clients, and agency personnel
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience or knowledge conducting fieldwork, including wildlife and threatened & endangered species habitat surveys and assessments
- Experience setting acoustic detectors for survey and data download, organization, and analysis using automated software programs. Manual vetting experience a plus
- Strong problem-solution orientation, detail oriented and resourceful
- Flexible, team-oriented approach, with the willingness and desire to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
- Effective time management and follow-through, with the ability to simultaneously work on and potentially lead multiple tasks subject to project deadlines
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Word & Excel
- Ability to travel to work locations with some overnight travel capacity
- Valid Driver’s License and good driving record
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline from an accredited university is required
- Minimum 1-3 years of related, professional experience
- Willingness to travel and conduct field work in potentially remote areas for extended periods (up to 5-10 days at a time) including overnight travel is expected for this position.
Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather. This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
ABOUT STANTEC
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.
StayInquisitive
Pay Transparency: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
Benefits Summary: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
LOCATION
Primary Location: United States | OK | Tulsa
ORGANIZATION: BC-2353 EnvSvcs-US Gulf West
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Regular
BUSINESS JUSTIFICATION: New Position
TRAVEL: Yes
SCHEDULE: Full time
JOB POSTING: 02/02/2026 03:02:34
REQ ID: 1004034
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in Wildlife Biologist
Align your degree field to the job description
USCIS scrutinizes whether your degree directly relates to the role. A biology or ecology degree paired with a Wildlife Biologist title is a strong match. Environmental studies degrees may require additional documentation to demonstrate equivalency.
Apply early in the field season
Wildlife biology hiring is heavily seasonal. Most agencies post positions in January through March for spring and summer starts. Missing this window can mean waiting a full year, which is costly if your OPT timeline is short.
Document field experience and technical skills
Employers want GIS proficiency, species survey methods, and data analysis skills. Concrete experience with tools like ArcGIS or Program MARK signals readiness for independent fieldwork and strengthens your case for visa sponsorship later.
Discuss OPT status early in conversations
Many wildlife employers, especially smaller nonprofits, are unfamiliar with OPT authorization. Explaining that you're work-authorized with no immediate cost to them reduces hesitation and keeps you in consideration alongside domestic candidates.
Wildlife Biologist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does a Wildlife Biologist role qualify for OPT work authorization?
Yes, Wildlife Biologist positions qualify for OPT when your degree is in a directly related field such as biology, ecology, zoology, wildlife science, or environmental science. USCIS requires that the job be directly related to your major area of study, so the connection between your degree and the role needs to be clearly documented on your EAD application.
Where can I find Wildlife Biologist jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters jobs by sponsorship-friendly employers, making it easier to find Wildlife Biologist roles where OPT authorization is accepted. Federal and state agency postings, university research positions, and conservation nonprofit listings are all common sources for OPT-eligible wildlife roles.
Can I work for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or other federal agencies on OPT?
You can work for federal agencies on OPT, but most permanent federal positions are limited to U.S. citizens. Temporary, seasonal, and contractor roles are more commonly open to OPT students. Programs like the Pathways Internship and certain research contracts through universities allow OPT holders to work alongside federal wildlife teams without citizenship requirements.
Does Wildlife Biologist work qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not just your job title. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as biology, environmental science, or ecology, and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify, you may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Degrees in non-STEM fields like environmental studies may not qualify even if the job duties are technical.
How should I handle the seasonal nature of wildlife biology when managing my OPT timeline?
Wildlife biology work is often project-based and seasonal, which can create gaps in employment. Under OPT rules, you cannot accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment during your initial 12-month period (150 days on STEM OPT extension). Pursuing back-to-back seasonal contracts or supplementing fieldwork with lab or data analysis roles helps you stay within authorized unemployment limits.
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