Wildlife Biologist Resume Example and Template
A strong wildlife biologist resume showcases research focus, field study design, and applied conservation outcomes. Include education in wildlife biology or related science, peer-reviewed publications, and examples of how your work informs species or habitat management.
State wildlife agencies and conservation nonprofits look for scientists who combine rigorous research methods with practical management knowledge. They value published work, field leadership, and ability to communicate science to diverse audiences.
A complete, realistic Wildlife Biologist resume, laid out in an ATS-tested template. The candidate is illustrative: the name, employers and figures were written for this example and identify no real person, so you can copy its structure and wording freely.
Updated September 2026
Also searched as
Research Scientist, Wildlife Research Biologist, Graduate Research Assistant
Dr. Helen Okoro: Wildlife Biologist
Missoula, Montana, United States
Summary
Wildlife biologist specializing in carnivore ecology and human-wildlife conflict with 8 years of field research experience. PhD in wildlife biology, expertise in population monitoring, space-use analysis, and translocation biology. Managed research program on gray wolf reintroduction involving 2.8 million acres; publications in 6 peer-reviewed journals; directly informed state management policy.
Work Experience
Research Scientist, Northern Rockies Wildlife Research Collective
Apr 2021 – Present. Nonprofit research consortium, 15 scientists
- Led multi-year wolf reintroduction research across 2.8 million acres of protected lands
- Managed field team of 4 technicians conducting GPS collar monitoring and den observations
- Analyzed movement and survival data using spatial statistics; identified habitat-use patterns
- Published 3 first-author papers on translocation success and policy implications; presented findings to state wildlife board
Wildlife Research Biologist, Idaho Department of Fish and Game
Sep 2018 – Mar 2021. State wildlife agency, research division
- Conducted population surveys and genetic sampling for 3 native carnivore species across 6 study areas
- Deployed and maintained GPS and VHF telemetry systems; processed telemetry data and movement analyses
- Wrote technical reports on human-wildlife conflict incidents and species population trends
- Mentored 2 graduate students and supervised 6 seasonal field technicians
Graduate Research Assistant, University of Montana College of Forestry and Conservation
Aug 2015 – Aug 2018. Research university, wildlife ecology lab
- Conducted dissertation research on cougar population dynamics across 3 study sites spanning 8,000 acres
- Deployed trail cameras and conducted intensive field tracking; collected 180+ days of field data annually
- Analyzed occupancy and space-use patterns using hierarchical Bayesian models
- Taught graduate seminar on carnivore ecology to 12 students; co-authored 2 peer-reviewed papers
Education
University of Montana
Ph.D., Wildlife Biology. Aug 2015 – Aug 2018
University of Alaska Fairbanks
B.S., Wildlife Biology. Aug 2011 – May 2015
Skills
Population monitoring and surveys, GPS and VHF telemetry, Space-use and movement analysis, Habitat assessment, Genetic sampling and analysis, Statistical modeling and R programming, Scientific writing and publication, GIS and spatial analysis, Field team leadership, Stakeholder engagement and science communication
Languages
English, Igbo
Why this look works
Wildlife biology blends rigorous science with conservation passion. A professional, evidence-based design that conveys scientific credibility works well. The format should appeal to research-focused agencies and nonprofits that value published contributions.
Resume tips for this job
- Highlight published research prominently. List all first-author publications, and note your impact through citation counts if available.
- Include specific fieldwork: species studied, study area size, years of work, sample sizes. Concrete details show you know your animals and your landscape.
- Show conservation impact. How did your work change management decisions or policy? That's what agencies and nonprofits ultimately want from research.
Common questions
Do I need a PhD to be a wildlife biologist?
A master's degree qualifies you for many state and federal positions. A PhD is typically required for research scientist roles and faculty positions. Government field positions often prefer fieldwork experience over advanced degrees.
What fieldwork skills matter most?
Telemetry, trapping, survey methods, and data collection precision are critical. Physical fitness and ability to work independently in remote areas are essential. Most agencies will train you on specific protocols if you have a strong foundation.