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Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between living things and their environment. They do this to understand how natural and human-caused changes in the environment influence the behaviour and abundance of species. They also study how interactions between ecosystems, species, and their environment influence the natural world. They may interpret and monitor ecosystems for science, policy, and land-management purposes.

Also Known As

Aquaculture Ecologist, Biological Scientist, Conservation Biologist, Conservation Ecologist, Conservation Scientist, Ecological Planner, Plant Ecologist, Naturalist, Research Scientist, Terrestrial Ecologist, Vegetation Ecologist, Wildlife Biologist, Wildlife Ecologist

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 2121.1: Biologists

2006 NOC-S

  • C021: Biologists and Related Scientists

2011 NOC

  • 2121: Biologists and related scientists

2016 NOC

  • 2121: Biologists and related scientists

2021 NOC

  • 21110: Biologists and related scientists

2023 OaSIS

  • 21110.01: Biologists
Duties
Updated Mar 21, 2023

Ecologists usually specialize in some area of environmental conservation and management or life sciences. Examples include animal behaviour, botany, marine biology, microbiology, population dynamics, soil science, toxicology, and zoology. Often working as part of a multidisciplinary team, ecologists may develop and test hypotheses about:

  • Relationships among predators and prey
  • Effects on organisms and ecosystems of parasites
  • The types and organization of plant communities in the landscape
  • The impact of invasive species on native communities
  • The effects of human activities (like urbanization, dam construction, oil and gas development, mining, and hunting) on natural habitats and ecosystems (often by monitoring the presence or abundance of target species)
  • The management of fish, wildlife, and other biological resources
  • The design and management of protected areas
  • Evaluation, listing, and recovery plans for species at risk
  • The effects of pollutants on terrestrial or aquatic vegetation, wildlife, and ecosystems
  • The restoration of functioning ecosystems
  • Habitat changes after a natural disturbance, such as fire or flooding
  • Fundamental questions about individual behaviour, population dynamics, community structure, or ecosystem function
  • Biogeochemical processes, such as the flow of nitrogen, carbon, or energy through an ecosystem
  • Populations, communities, and ecosystem function

Duties vary from one position to another. In general, ecologists implement, plan, and conduct or oversee field work. They then report on and interpret the results of that work. This may involve counting populations of plants, animals, and other species or collecting water, soil, plant, or animal samples. Ecologists also:

  • Analyze existing data or use the data they collect to understand and classify vegetation and landscapes
  • Use computers to enter data, design and manage databases, develop geographic information systems (GIS) layers and products, perform statistical analyses, model problems, and evaluate possible solutions
  • Conduct studies to develop or refine ecological land classifications
  • Count individuals, populations, species, and communities of organisms
  • Study animals over long periods of time, noting characteristics such as population numbers, life history patterns, behaviour, diet, and habitat use
  • Study ecosystem attributes over long periods of time, noting characteristics such as species composition, spatial patterns, connectivity of habitats, and patterns of natural and human anthropogenic disturbance
  • Study and dissect plant and animal specimens in greenhouses and laboratories
  • Do environmental impact assessments
  • Write proposals and prepare written reports and recommendations
  • Provide information, make presentations, and give talks to individuals, schools, clubs, and interest groups about ecosystem processes and species relationships, and the natural or human impacts on these processes and relationships
  • Contribute to developing government policy
  • Work with the public, stakeholders, or government to develop and implement conservation strategies
  • Use modeling techniques to assess the potential impact of changes to the ecosystem, such as the introduction of new species

Ecologists may also supervise the work of technologists and technicians.

Working Conditions
Updated Mar 21, 2023
  • Strength Required Lift up to 5 kg

Depending on the nature of their projects, ecologists may work outdoors in rugged or remote locations, or indoors in laboratories and offices. Some ecologists primarily work on computers and use data they get from other scientists.

Ecologists often work long days. Some projects take hours of observation or weeks of travel. Others require specialized equipment and techniques.

The main role of an ecologist is to study and observe environmental patterns. As a result, ecologists work in a variety of locations, including but not limited to an office, a lab, or the field.

In the office, they:

  • Enter and analyze data, including spatial mapping, statistical analysis, and geographic information systems
  • Communicate on the phone and in meetings with clients, government departments, colleagues, and the public, and present report findings to clients
  • Prepare computer models based on reach to illustrate and manipulate ecosystem structure
  • Compile data and preparing reports and scientific articles

In the lab, they:

  • Process samples collected in the filed, by counting and measuring organisms, analyzing samples, and conducting genetic analysis
  • Conduct lab experiments
  • Maintain and prepare equipment for fieldwork

In the field, they:

  • Study wildlife and plant populations, such as by collecting samples and specimens
  • Observe the impact of invasive species on native communities
  • Use a GPS for capturing field data
  • Use geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze, evaluate, and prepare information
Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Biologists

2006 NOC: 2121.1

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in synthesizing information to conduct ecological and environmental impact studies and to prepare reports, and to develop new practices in biological research

OBJECTIVE

Interest in precision working with instruments and equipment to conduct experiments in plant and animal growth, heredity and breeding

DIRECTIVE

Interest in consulting to advise on issues related to biological processes and research and the development of new products; may supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Abilities

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Mental Abilities

General Learning Ability

Verbal Ability

Numerical Ability

Visual Abilities

Spatial Perception

Form Perception

Clerical Perception

Physical Abilities

Motor Coordination

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Understanding Abilities

A Quick Guide

You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Learn About Abilities

Traits & Skills
Updated Mar 21, 2023

Ecologists need:

  • An impartial nature
  • Persistence in searching for answers to complex questions
  • Logical thinking and comfort with uncertainty and probability
  • Analysis and communication skills
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Precision and attention to detail
  • Physical stamina in field situations
  • An interest in nature

Ecologists should enjoy:

  • Synthesizing information that leads to innovative approaches to problems
  • Using instruments and equipment for precision tasks
  • Supervising, writing, and presenting research projects

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Biologists and related scientists

2016 NOC: 2121

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 38 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 29, 2021 and Oct 11, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Team player
Accurate
Excellent written communication
Attention to detail
Health benefits: Health care plan
Excellent oral communication
Health benefits: Dental plan
Tasks: Produce reports
Health benefits: Vision care benefits
Time management
Educational Requirements
Updated Mar 21, 2023
  • Minimum Education 6 years post-secondary

Ecologists must have at least 1 university degree with a solid grounding in several ecology courses. They also need courses in complementary fields, including:

  • Biology (e.g., morphology, physiology, genetics, microbiology, zoology, botany, conservation biology)
  • Organic and inorganic chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics, calculus, and statistics
  • Computer science

Depending on their area of specialization, ecologists may have an academic background in many other diverse subjects. These might include climatology, economics, geology, mathematical modelling, meteorology, oceanography, sociology, or soil science.

Most research jobs in ecology require a graduate degree in biological sciences. This is usually a master of science (M.Sc.) degree, and is sometimes a doctoral degree (PhD).

Required Education

The following schools offer programs and courses that meet this occupation’s educational requirements. Other eligible programs and courses may be available.

Ambrose University
St. Mary's University

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Mar 21, 2023
  • Certification Provincially Regulated

Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.

The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.

Biologist

Biologists study living organisms and apply their scientific knowledge in various fields.

Legislation

Under Alberta’s Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act [pdf] and Professional Biologists Regulation [pdf], you must be a registered member of the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) to use the Professional Biologist title or the P. Biol. and P Biol initials.

You do not have to register if you do not call yourself a Professional Biologist.

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Biologist.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Mar 21, 2023

Ecologists work for:

  • Provincial and federal governments
  • Universities and colleges
  • Research institutions
  • Conservation organizations
  • Environmental consulting firms
  • Large private corporations such as manufacturers of agricultural products, forestry companies, paper manufacturers, and oil and gas companies

Governments often employ ecologists to prepare policy assessments in relation to environmental issues. Many ecologists, particularly those with master’s degrees, are hired to identify gaps in environmental impact assessments and come up with recommendations for meeting legislated requirements. Experience with the legal aspects of environmental biology is an asset for those involved in this kind of work.

Corporations often employ ecologists to:

  • Help safeguard supplies of raw materials
  • Make sure their operations comply with government regulations
  • Monitor processes and products

Related summer work experience or volunteer experience is a definite asset for university graduates looking for work. Entry-level jobs often are short-term contract positions.

Advancement opportunities are limited for ecologists who do not have graduate degrees. Applicants with only bachelor’s degrees may find themselves working in non-research positions that involve laboratory tests or inspections or collecting routine field data.

A doctoral degree is the standard for university and independent research positions and may be needed to advance to senior management positions.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Biologists and related scientists
2016 NOC: 2121

79.3% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Biologists and related scientists
2021 NOC: 21110
Medium
Demand
3,000
Employed

Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Biologists and related scientists
2016 NOC: 2121
2.6%
Annual Growth
(Above Average)
44
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Wage & Salary
Updated Mar 21, 2023

Salaries for ecologists vary depending on their educational qualifications, experience, and specific field of study.

For information about salary ranges for university professors, see the University Professor occupational profile.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Biologists and related scientists

2016 NOC: 2121
Average Wage
$46.17
Per Hour
Average Salary
$91,023.00
Per Year
Average Hours
38.1
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 2121 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $22.00 $55.00 $34.71 $33.00
Overall $24.00 $70.91 $46.17 $46.86
Top $26.00 $101.09 $60.62 $58.00

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Health Care & Social Assistance
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
32%
32%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
47%
47%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
19%
19%
Vacancy Rate
N/A
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Agriculture and Related Technologies
  • Environment, Forestry and Related Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Sciences
  • Social Sciences, Law and Religious Studies
Other Sources of Information
Updated Mar 21, 2023

Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) website: www.aspb.ab.ca

ECO Canada website: eco.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 21, 2023. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

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