Wildlife Biologist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Wildlife biologists can secure H-1B visa, O-1 visa, or EB-2 NIW visa sponsorship through federal agencies, research institutions, and environmental consulting firms. The specialty occupation requirement is typically met with degrees in wildlife biology, ecology, or related life sciences. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Working Title: Wildlife Biologist
Classification: Fish & Wildlife Biologist 4
Job Status: Full-Time/Permanent
WDFW Program: Wildlife Program – Region 6
Duty Station: Port Townsend, Washington – Jefferson County Port Townsend, Washington is the current duty station, however, depending on the successful candidate an alternate duty station in Shelton, Washington (Mason County) may be considered. TELEWORK: While this position may offer a telework option, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW! Photo Caption – Black-tailed deer – Photo Credit: Bill Hebner
Are you passionate about the preservation and protection of wildlife? With sustainability and conservation in mind, you will implement and develop recommendations for wildlife management, conservation, and recreation opportunities within District 15 which includes portions of Eastern Jefferson, Kitsap and Mason counties. This is an opportunity to assess wildlife populations and habitats, conduct inventories, and monitor diverse wildlife populations.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position:
Serves as the district's technical expert regarding wildlife population status, trends and distribution.
- Develops or co-develops wildlife surveys for District 15.
- Conducts assigned wildlife surveys and monitoring as part of statewide efforts including, but not limited to, distance sampling surveys for invertebrates, acoustic surveys for upland birds, helicopter and fixed wing surveys for big game, waterfowl, shorebirds and other wildlife species.
- Use of statistical methods and software to analyze data.
- Compiles and analyzes data and writes reports.
Develops recommendations for wildlife management and recreation opportunities within the district.
- Independently evaluates biological data and develops recommendations regarding hunting regulations for review by wildlife leadership.
- Develop recommendations regarding species recovery plans and wildlife area plans.
- Provides technical expertise during development of proposed WAC changes and wildlife management policies. Develops and presents land acquisition, habitat enhancement and other grant proposals.
Implements activities directed toward wildlife management, conservation, and recreation within the district.
- Conducts population augmentation, capture, and translocation of wildlife.
- Use of chemical immobilization drugs and related equipment (e.g. dart guns) for capturing wildlife.
- Euthanizing wildlife when necessary for humane, scientific, or other management purposes, at times requiring the use of firearms.
- Using biologically based skills, conducts complex inspections and investigations (such as necropsies of dead animals in various states of decay) to gather biological samples or determine the cause of mortality.
- Carries out harvest monitoring.
Communicates with the public, tribes and other agencies on diverse wildlife issues within the district.
- Participates in tribal co-management activities and meetings.
- Explains data and presents options, orally or in writing, to public groups to increase public knowledge of diverse wildlife issues within the district.
Assigns and directs the work of the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist while working in District 15.
- Assists the District 16 Wildlife Biologist with planning work, training, evaluating and mentoring staff.
- Leads team on carrying out assignments and ensures deadlines are met.
- Ensure staff have the equipment and supplies they need to safely conduct field surveys efficiently and effectively.
Working Conditions:
Work setting: Work is conducted in an office and in the field. Field work includes travel to and from field sites and work in outdoor conditions often in extreme weather conditions. Field surveys are conducted by airplane, helicopter, boat, vehicle and on foot. Field work can vary from 10% to 80% depending upon season and requires working alone outdoors during inclement weather, walking over rough terrain (typically less than a mile but occasionally over long distances of several miles) while sometimes carrying heavy loads in excess of 50 pounds. Handles immobilization drugs for capturing wildlife and uses firearms when necessary to euthanize wild animals. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Core work hours for this position are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, but often include long and irregular hours to include nights and weekends as determined by business needs and emergent issues. Work outside these hours may be assigned as needed to complete work tasks.
Travel requirements: Frequent single-day trips to work sites throughout assigned area. Infrequent overnight travel to other areas of Washington for up to 1 week at a time may occur to attend conferences, trainings, assist with fieldwork, etc. Occasional travel for out of local area meetings and/or conferences may be necessary as determined by business needs and emergent issues dictate.
Customer Interactions: Numerous interactions with the public, tribes, elected officials, and other government employees by phone, in writing and in person. Gives formal presentations to a variety of audiences and interacts with hunters and others in the field. Angry members of the public and hostile interactions, although uncommon, will be encountered requiring an ability to remain calm, professional, and diplomatic.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:
A Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Five (5) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 2:
A Master’s degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Four (4) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 3:
A Ph.D. in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Three (3) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 4:
Four (4) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3.
Option 5:
Nine (9) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
For ALL of the options above:
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to legally possess and use firearms in a safe and accurate manner (background check, drug screening and proficiency qualification required before firearm use).
- Ability to pass background checks, drug screening, and training to receive authorization to use a firearm.
Special Requirement/Condition of Employment:
This position has been designated as one for which a Department-issued firearm is required and essential to the Department. With the approval of the Appointing Authority or designee, provided the incumbent is able to meet the conditions and requirements of the agency firearm policy (Policy 7011), the incumbent will be authorized to carry and utilize a Department-issued firearm while in this position, provided he/she can continue to meet the requirements of Policy 7011. The incumbent must successfully pass a background check, drug screening, and required firearm authorization training, including performing animal euthanasia as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Job knowledge:
- Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
- Wildlife habitat relationships.
- Wildlife survey methods.
- Applicable state, federal, and local environmental regulations and policies.
- Principles of wildlife harvest management.
- Personal computer hardware and software (MS Office).
- Must have good oral and written communication skills – conveys clear, timely, persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.
- Species identification.
- Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
- Contract development and administration.
Ability to:
- Follow prescribed protocols and procedures.
- Conduct field surveys to collect data.
- Conduct data analysis and make inferences from data.
- Train and mentor staff.
- Organize and prioritize work for self and others.
- Develop effective objectives, timelines and action plans.
- Communicate clearly and effectively with individuals and groups within and outside of the organization, both in writing and verbally.
- Negotiate effectively.
- Walk, bend, stoop, while at times carrying up to 50 pounds.
- Load and transport equipment and gear.
- Use critical thinking in collecting, recording, compiling, and summarizing data.
- Follow oral and written directions.
- Visually discriminate when identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features.
- Perform routine and repetitive work in an accurate, punctual, dependable, safe and efficient manner.
- Work independently and as a team member.
- Safely operate motor vehicles on and off road, in field situations.
- Safely operate motorized and non-motorized vessels up to 24 feet.
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 (3) 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 Cheri.Potter@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
As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington. 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 Cheri.Potter@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-05825.
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Description
Working Title: Wildlife Biologist
Classification: Fish & Wildlife Biologist 4
Job Status: Full-Time/Permanent
WDFW Program: Wildlife Program – Region 6
Duty Station: Port Townsend, Washington – Jefferson County Port Townsend, Washington is the current duty station, however, depending on the successful candidate an alternate duty station in Shelton, Washington (Mason County) may be considered. TELEWORK: While this position may offer a telework option, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW! Photo Caption – Black-tailed deer – Photo Credit: Bill Hebner
Are you passionate about the preservation and protection of wildlife? With sustainability and conservation in mind, you will implement and develop recommendations for wildlife management, conservation, and recreation opportunities within District 15 which includes portions of Eastern Jefferson, Kitsap and Mason counties. This is an opportunity to assess wildlife populations and habitats, conduct inventories, and monitor diverse wildlife populations.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position:
Serves as the district's technical expert regarding wildlife population status, trends and distribution.
- Develops or co-develops wildlife surveys for District 15.
- Conducts assigned wildlife surveys and monitoring as part of statewide efforts including, but not limited to, distance sampling surveys for invertebrates, acoustic surveys for upland birds, helicopter and fixed wing surveys for big game, waterfowl, shorebirds and other wildlife species.
- Use of statistical methods and software to analyze data.
- Compiles and analyzes data and writes reports.
Develops recommendations for wildlife management and recreation opportunities within the district.
- Independently evaluates biological data and develops recommendations regarding hunting regulations for review by wildlife leadership.
- Develop recommendations regarding species recovery plans and wildlife area plans.
- Provides technical expertise during development of proposed WAC changes and wildlife management policies. Develops and presents land acquisition, habitat enhancement and other grant proposals.
Implements activities directed toward wildlife management, conservation, and recreation within the district.
- Conducts population augmentation, capture, and translocation of wildlife.
- Use of chemical immobilization drugs and related equipment (e.g. dart guns) for capturing wildlife.
- Euthanizing wildlife when necessary for humane, scientific, or other management purposes, at times requiring the use of firearms.
- Using biologically based skills, conducts complex inspections and investigations (such as necropsies of dead animals in various states of decay) to gather biological samples or determine the cause of mortality.
- Carries out harvest monitoring.
Communicates with the public, tribes and other agencies on diverse wildlife issues within the district.
- Participates in tribal co-management activities and meetings.
- Explains data and presents options, orally or in writing, to public groups to increase public knowledge of diverse wildlife issues within the district.
Assigns and directs the work of the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist while working in District 15.
- Assists the District 16 Wildlife Biologist with planning work, training, evaluating and mentoring staff.
- Leads team on carrying out assignments and ensures deadlines are met.
- Ensure staff have the equipment and supplies they need to safely conduct field surveys efficiently and effectively.
Working Conditions:
Work setting: Work is conducted in an office and in the field. Field work includes travel to and from field sites and work in outdoor conditions often in extreme weather conditions. Field surveys are conducted by airplane, helicopter, boat, vehicle and on foot. Field work can vary from 10% to 80% depending upon season and requires working alone outdoors during inclement weather, walking over rough terrain (typically less than a mile but occasionally over long distances of several miles) while sometimes carrying heavy loads in excess of 50 pounds. Handles immobilization drugs for capturing wildlife and uses firearms when necessary to euthanize wild animals. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Core work hours for this position are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, but often include long and irregular hours to include nights and weekends as determined by business needs and emergent issues. Work outside these hours may be assigned as needed to complete work tasks.
Travel requirements: Frequent single-day trips to work sites throughout assigned area. Infrequent overnight travel to other areas of Washington for up to 1 week at a time may occur to attend conferences, trainings, assist with fieldwork, etc. Occasional travel for out of local area meetings and/or conferences may be necessary as determined by business needs and emergent issues dictate.
Customer Interactions: Numerous interactions with the public, tribes, elected officials, and other government employees by phone, in writing and in person. Gives formal presentations to a variety of audiences and interacts with hunters and others in the field. Angry members of the public and hostile interactions, although uncommon, will be encountered requiring an ability to remain calm, professional, and diplomatic.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:
A Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Five (5) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 2:
A Master’s degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Four (4) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 3:
A Ph.D. in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Three (3) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 4:
Four (4) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3.
Option 5:
Nine (9) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
For ALL of the options above:
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to legally possess and use firearms in a safe and accurate manner (background check, drug screening and proficiency qualification required before firearm use).
- Ability to pass background checks, drug screening, and training to receive authorization to use a firearm.
Special Requirement/Condition of Employment:
This position has been designated as one for which a Department-issued firearm is required and essential to the Department. With the approval of the Appointing Authority or designee, provided the incumbent is able to meet the conditions and requirements of the agency firearm policy (Policy 7011), the incumbent will be authorized to carry and utilize a Department-issued firearm while in this position, provided he/she can continue to meet the requirements of Policy 7011. The incumbent must successfully pass a background check, drug screening, and required firearm authorization training, including performing animal euthanasia as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Job knowledge:
- Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
- Wildlife habitat relationships.
- Wildlife survey methods.
- Applicable state, federal, and local environmental regulations and policies.
- Principles of wildlife harvest management.
- Personal computer hardware and software (MS Office).
- Must have good oral and written communication skills – conveys clear, timely, persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.
- Species identification.
- Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
- Contract development and administration.
Ability to:
- Follow prescribed protocols and procedures.
- Conduct field surveys to collect data.
- Conduct data analysis and make inferences from data.
- Train and mentor staff.
- Organize and prioritize work for self and others.
- Develop effective objectives, timelines and action plans.
- Communicate clearly and effectively with individuals and groups within and outside of the organization, both in writing and verbally.
- Negotiate effectively.
- Walk, bend, stoop, while at times carrying up to 50 pounds.
- Load and transport equipment and gear.
- Use critical thinking in collecting, recording, compiling, and summarizing data.
- Follow oral and written directions.
- Visually discriminate when identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features.
- Perform routine and repetitive work in an accurate, punctual, dependable, safe and efficient manner.
- Work independently and as a team member.
- Safely operate motor vehicles on and off road, in field situations.
- Safely operate motorized and non-motorized vessels up to 24 feet.
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 (3) 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 Cheri.Potter@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
As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington. 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 Cheri.Potter@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-05825.
Know someone who would like to volunteer?
WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
See all Wildlife Biologist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Wildlife Biologist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Wildlife Biologist Jobs
Target federal agencies and research institutions
USGS, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and university research centers regularly sponsor wildlife biologists. These employers understand the specialty occupation requirements and have established sponsorship processes.
Highlight specialized fieldwork and research skills
Emphasize experience with specific species, ecosystems, or research methodologies. Skills in GIS mapping, population modeling, or endangered species management strengthen your specialty occupation case significantly.
Consider the EB-2 NIW pathway for researchers
Wildlife biologists conducting research in conservation, climate change, or ecosystem management may qualify for the National Interest Waiver, bypassing the need for employer-sponsored labor certification entirely.
Document field research and publication record
Published research, conference presentations, and field study leadership demonstrate the advanced knowledge required for H-1B specialty occupation classification. Maintain detailed records of all professional contributions and achievements.
Network through professional wildlife organizations
The Wildlife Society, Society for Conservation Biology, and regional wildlife associations connect members with sponsoring employers. Many positions are filled through professional networks rather than public job boards.
Prepare for seasonal work considerations
Many wildlife positions involve seasonal fieldwork. Ensure your employer understands H-1B requires full-time employment year-round. Discuss how off-season duties like data analysis and reporting maintain continuous employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do wildlife biologists qualify for H-1B specialty occupation status?
Yes, wildlife biology positions typically qualify as specialty occupations when they require a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, or related life sciences. The role must involve specialized knowledge in areas like population dynamics, habitat assessment, or species conservation that directly relates to your degree field.
What degree requirements do wildlife biology positions have for visa sponsorship?
Most sponsoring employers require a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, environmental science, or closely related field. A master's degree is often preferred for research positions. If your degree doesn't directly match, you may need to demonstrate how coursework and experience relate to wildlife biology work.
How to find Wildlife Biologist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Wildlife Biologist jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus on positions with research institutions, environmental consulting firms, government agencies, and conservation organizations that commonly sponsor H-1B visa, O-1, or J-1 visas for scientific roles. These employers often have established sponsorship programs for specialized wildlife research positions.
Which employers are most likely to sponsor wildlife biologists?
Federal agencies like USGS, National Park Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service are primary sponsors, along with state wildlife departments, universities with research programs, environmental consulting firms, and non-profit conservation organizations. Private consulting companies working on environmental impact assessments also sponsor wildlife biologists regularly.
Can seasonal wildlife work qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship?
H-1B requires full-time, year-round employment, which can be challenging for traditionally seasonal wildlife work. However, positions that combine field seasons with laboratory analysis, report writing, data modeling, and planning during off-seasons can meet the continuous employment requirement if properly structured.
What approval rates do wildlife biologists see for visa applications?
Wildlife biology H-1B petitions generally have favorable approval rates when filed by established research institutions or federal agencies, as these employers easily demonstrate the specialty occupation requirement. However, applications may face scrutiny if the job duties appear too general or don't clearly require specialized biological knowledge.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Wildlife Biologist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.