Zoologists and wildlife biologists
🤍 Save CareerZoologists and wildlife biologists play a vital role in the US economy, with 18K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $72,860, with projected growth of 2% through 2034 (Slower than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — 2% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
Some tasks may be automated, but human skills remain essential.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Zoologists and wildlife biologists
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Zoologists and wildlife biologists
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
This occupation is a hybrid of physical fieldwork and digital knowledge work. AI significantly impacts the data-heavy aspects of the job, such as analyzing GIS data, processing camera trap imagery, and modeling population dynamics, but it cannot replace the physical requirements of collecting biological specimens, handling wild animals, or navigating remote outdoor environments.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $72,860, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in zoologists and wildlife biologists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Zoologists and wildlife biologists make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Zoologists and wildlife biologists is $72,860 per year. Entry-level positions start around $43,716, while experienced professionals can earn up to $116,576 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Zoologists and wildlife biologists?▼
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is bachelor's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Zoologists and wildlife biologists?▼
Most Zoologists and wildlife biologists positions require bachelor's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Zoologists and wildlife biologists?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Zoologists and wildlife biologists. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Zoologists and wildlife biologists do on a daily basis?▼
As a zoologists and wildlife biologist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Zoologists and wildlife biologists a good career in 2026?▼
With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $72,860, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 2%, which is declining. The median salary of $72,860 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Zoologists and wildlife biologistss?▼
Zoologists and wildlife biologists has an AI automation risk score of 50/100 (Moderate). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Zoologists and wildlife biologists?▼
Anyone interested in zoologists and wildlife biologists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Zoologists and wildlife biologists Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Zoologists and wildlife biologists matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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