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If you’ve Googled “Biologist job description,” you’ve probably found dozens of nearly identical articles—same bullet points, same generic wording, and zero insight into what actually attracts top biology talent.
The problem? Those cookie-cutter job descriptions don’t inspire the kind of candidates you really want. They don’t show what your organization is about, why the work matters, or what kind of scientist will thrive in the role.
And here’s the truth: The best biologists aren’t just looking for a list of duties—they want to know your mission, the impact they’ll have, and the team they’ll be working with. A bland job post won’t get their attention.
If you want your next hire to be a curious, committed, and innovative scientist, you need a job description that speaks to them. That’s what we’re building here.
Before we dive in, you might want to read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ —it explains exactly why most generic job descriptions fail and how to create ones that connect and convert.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What a Biologist Actually Does - Their Roles
A biologist is a scientist who studies living organisms—plants, animals, microorganisms, and their interactions with the environment.
But in real-world terms? A biologist is part detective, part storyteller, and part problem-solver. They collect data in the field or lab, run experiments, analyze findings, and turn those findings into insights that help solve real-world problems—like conserving endangered species, improving crop yields, or understanding disease patterns.
They’re also collaborators. Whether working with fellow scientists, policymakers, or community stakeholders, biologists translate complex science into information people can use.
That’s why technical expertise alone isn’t enough. The best biologists combine scientific skill with curiosity, clear communication, and the ability to see the bigger picture.
Two Great Biologist Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Experienced Biologist Job Description (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Senior Biologist — Restore Watersheds & Biodiversity in the Pacific Northwest
Location: Hybrid (3 days on-site in Portland, OR)
Salary Range: $72,000–$88,000/year + benefits
Type: Full-Time
A quick word from our hiring manager (60s): (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Dr. Maya Chen (Director of Research) shares the team’s mission, current projects, and what success looks like in this role.
Who We Are — Pacific EcoScience (PES)
Founded in 2004, Pacific EcoScience is a Portland-based nonprofit research organization focused on freshwater ecosystems and forest ecology. Our 38-person team has contributed to 120+ peer-reviewed studies, advised state and federal partners (e.g., ODFW, USGS), and supported 40,000+ acres of habitat restoration across the Willamette and Lower Columbia basins. Current projects include native salmon run recovery, riparian reforestation, and invasive species control in high-priority watersheds.
Our Culture
We pair scientific rigor with humility and open collaboration. You’ll work in small, cross-disciplinary squads, share methods transparently, and get rapid feedback from PIs and field leads. We value curiosity, reproducibility, and clear communication with both technical and public audiences.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead multi-season field studies on native fish and amphibian populations.
- Design, execute, and document laboratory experiments tied to field findings.
- Build and validate statistical models; translate results into management recommendations.
- Present findings to agencies, NGOs, and community partners; co-author publications.
- Mentor junior biologists and interns; review protocols and data QA/QC.
What We’re Looking For
- MS/PhD in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field.
- 5+ years hands-on research experience (field + lab) and a publication track record.
- Proficiency with R or Python for analysis/modeling; GIS familiarity a plus.
- Strong technical writing and stakeholder presentation skills.
- Valid driver’s license; comfortable with strenuous fieldwork in varied conditions.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + HSA; employer 401(k) match.
- 20 days PTO to start + 12 paid holidays; paid volunteer day.
- Annual pro-development stipend (courses, conferences, journals).
- Field gear stipend + safety training certifications.
- Hybrid schedule; flexible hours around field seasons.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- High-impact projects that directly inform policy and restoration decisions.
- Autonomy to lead studies, test new methods, and publish.
- A team that invests in mentorship and celebrates rigorous, reproducible science.
- Visible outcomes — you’ll see your work translate into healthier watersheds.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and respond within 10–14 days.
- Skills assessment via WorkScreen (practical scenario + data snippet)
- Virtual panel interview (team & PI)
- On-site visit + short field/lab walkthrough
We notify all candidates of outcomes.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. You’ll complete a brief, role-specific evaluation so we can assess your skills fairly (not just your résumé).
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Biologist Job Description
Job Title: Junior Biologist — Learn & Contribute to Desert Ecosystem Research
Location: On-site, Santa Fe, NM
Salary Range: $48,000–$55,000/year + benefits
Type: Full-Time
A quick word from our program lead (45s): (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Program Lead Javier Morales explains our onboarding plan, mentorship model, and how early-career scientists grow here.
Who We Are — Desert Life Research Institute (DLRI)
Established in 1978, DLRI is a Santa Fe–based applied research institute dedicated to Southwestern desert ecosystems. Our 65-member team works across New Mexico, Arizona, and West Texas on projects spanning pollinator habitat restoration, invasive grass mitigation, and drought resilience. We collaborate with BLM field offices, tribal communities, and local land trusts, and we’ve supported restoration on 15,000+ acres of high-value desert habitat.
Our Culture
We’re a teaching lab at heart. You’ll be paired with a mentor, rotate across field crews and lab teams, and receive structured feedback. We value grit, safety, and a growth mindset — perfect for motivated scientists starting their careers.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Assist with field surveys, vegetation plots, and wildlife camera deployments.
- Collect, label, and log biological samples; maintain chain of custody.
- Clean and organize datasets; run basic analyses under supervision.
- Support lab prep (reagents, equipment checks) and inventory.
- Help with community outreach and findings summaries.
What We’re Looking For
- BS/BA in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related coursework.
- Comfortable working outdoors in heat, dust, and variable terrain.
- Detail-oriented, safety-minded, eager to learn new protocols.
- Basic spreadsheet/data skills; R or Python a plus (we’ll train).
- Clear communicator and dependable teammate.
(No prior professional experience required — training provided.)
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision; employer-paid life & disability.
- 15 days PTO + 10 holidays; flex time during intensive field weeks.
- Paid certifications (First Aid/CPR, pesticide applicator, 4×4 safety).
- Mentorship program + quarterly skills workshops; tuition assistance eligible.
- All field PPE and gear supplied.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Hands-on learning with clear progression from assistant to lead tech.
- Diverse project exposure across restoration, invasives, and monitoring.
- Supportive team that prioritizes skill-building and field safety.
- Your contributions have visible impact on desert resilience.
Our Hiring Process
We acknowledge all applications and aim to reply within 7–10 days.
- Brief WorkScreen skills check (observations + short data task)
- Virtual interview with hiring panel
- Offer with a 2–3 week paid trial (min 10 hrs/week) to ensure mutual fit
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Our process emphasizes real-world ability and potential, not just past titles.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These Biologist Job Posts Work
1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of “Biologist” or “Research Scientist,” the titles tell candidates exactly what the role is about:
- “Senior Biologist — Restore Watersheds & Biodiversity in the Pacific Northwest”
- “Junior Biologist — Learn & Contribute to Desert Ecosystem Research”
This instantly signals the mission, region, and focus of the work — helping the right people self-select in.
2. Personal Video From a Leader
Both templates include a short Loom/YouTube clip from a hiring manager or program lead.
- This humanizes the post and gives candidates a glimpse of the person they might report to.
- It creates trust, builds connection, and sets your job apart from faceless listings.
3. Company Profiles With Credibility
Instead of a vague “we are a research organization,” each “Who We Are” section gives:
- Founding year and location
- Specific focus areas and project examples
- Tangible stats (acres restored, number of studies published, notable partnerships)
This builds authority and shows your real-world impact — something top candidates value.
4. Culture Is Shown, Not Claimed
Rather than saying “we value teamwork,” the posts describe how teams actually operate:
- Cross-disciplinary squads at Pacific EcoScience
- Mentor-pairing and rotation structure at Desert Life Research Institute
Candidates can picture themselves working there, instead of guessing what the culture is like.
5. Responsibilities Show Purpose
Duties are written to highlight impact, not just tasks:
- “Lead multi-season field studies on native fish and amphibian populations” shows scope and importance.
- “Assist with vegetation plots and wildlife camera deployments” lets entry-level candidates imagine their contribution.
This makes the role feel meaningful.
6. Transparent Perks & Benefits
Salary ranges, PTO, health coverage, and development perks are all listed up front:
- Builds trust
- Filters out candidates who aren’t aligned on compensation
- Signals that you value employee well-being
7. Separate “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section
By pulling this out of the benefits list, the focus is on the emotional drivers:
- Autonomy, impact, and policy influence for the senior role
- Skill-building, mentorship, and visible project outcomes for the junior role
This is where candidates see themselves thriving in the role.
8. Respectful, Transparent Hiring Process
Both job posts:
- State when applicants will hear back
- Explain each hiring step clearly
- Show commitment to fairness (WorkScreen evaluations focus on skills, not just résumés)
In an industry where applicants often get ghosted, this stands out.
9. Natural Integration of WorkScreen
The WorkScreen mention is positioned as a candidate benefit:
- Fair skill-based evaluation
- Less bias toward traditional credentials
- Gives a genuine opportunity for capable candidates without a perfect résumé
This makes the tech feel like a value-add, not a hurdle.
Example of a Bad Biologist Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Biologist
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
Job Summary
We are seeking a biologist to assist with various research projects. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting experiments, collecting samples, and analyzing data.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork as needed.
- Collect and record samples.
- Prepare reports.
- Assist with other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field.
- 2–3 years of experience preferred.
- Knowledge of lab techniques.
- Good communication skills.
How to Apply
Please send your résumé and cover letter to hr@biojobs.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- Generic, Uninspired Job Title
Just “Biologist” tells nothing about the mission, focus area, or environment — it could be any biology job anywhere. - No Mission or Impact
The summary offers no insight into what the organization does, what the work achieves, or why it matters. - Vague Responsibilities
Duties are so broad they could apply to hundreds of roles. There’s no sense of scale, scope, or purpose. - Missing Culture & Values
Nothing about how the team works, what they value, or what type of person thrives there. - No Salary or Perks
Lack of transparency on compensation, benefits, or work-life balance is a red flag for top candidates. - Cold, Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels outdated and disrespectful. It discourages good applicants from even trying. - Zero Personality in the CTA
Ending with “send résumé to this email” feels transactional — there’s no excitement or encouragement.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Biologist Job Post Stand Out
Even with a solid structure, small, thoughtful touches can make your job post more attractive to the right candidates and help you earn their trust before they ever apply.
1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE for Applicant Safety
Show candidates you take their privacy seriously. For example:
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We will never request payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of our hiring process. If anyone claiming to represent us asks for such details, please contact us immediately.
This builds trust — especially for international applicants or those wary of recruitment scams.
2. Highlight Leave Days & Flexibility
Biology work often involves field seasons with long hours. Mentioning your flexibility and recovery time can be a big draw:
Enjoy up to 24 days of paid leave per year, including flex days after intensive fieldwork weeks, so you can rest and recharge.
3. Mention Training & Growth Opportunities
Many biologists — even experienced ones — want to keep expanding their skills. Highlight any relevant programs:
We invest in our team’s growth with annual conference attendance, specialized certification programs, and opportunities to lead pilot studies.
4. Include a Loom or Short Video
A quick, authentic video from a project lead or hiring manager gives candidates a personal connection to your organization. Keep it under 60 seconds and focus on:
- Why this role matters
- What the team is like
- How the work makes an impact
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Show Real Employee Perspectives
Link to Glassdoor reviews, staff spotlight videos, or testimonials from current scientists. Example:
Hear from Dr. Ava Rodriguez, Senior Ecologist, on what it’s like to balance fieldwork and data analysis at Pacific EcoScience: [Insert link]
6. Be Field-Ready in Your Language
If the role involves outdoor work, acknowledge it honestly and show that you support your team:
Our field sites range from river valleys to alpine meadows — you’ll work in all kinds of weather. We provide all PPE, safety training, and gear stipends to make sure you’re ready.
AI Caution: Why You Shouldn’t Let AI Write Your Biologist Job Post From Scratch
It’s tempting to open ChatGPT or an ATS’s built-in AI tool, type “write a biologist job description,” and hit copy-paste. But here’s the problem — when you do that without giving it any real context, you’ll end up with something generic, lifeless, and nearly identical to what’s already online.
Why Blind AI Use Hurts Your Hiring
- Attracts the wrong applicants — You’ll pull in people mass-applying to any biology-related role, rather than those aligned with your mission.
- Fails to connect with top talent — Skilled, mission-driven scientists can tell when a post is cookie-cutter.
- Reflects poorly on your brand — Your job post is often the first impression of your organization. If it feels copy-pasted, it suggests you’ll take the same approach to your hiring process.
The Right Way to Use AI
AI can be a fantastic writing partner — but only if you feed it the raw ingredients that make your role unique.
Here’s a sample prompt that works:
“Help me write a job post for our organization, Pacific EcoScience. We’re hiring a Senior Biologist to lead watershed restoration research in the Pacific Northwest. Our culture is collaborative and data-driven, and we want to attract candidates with field and lab experience who value applied conservation. We offer $72,000–$88,000/year, 20 days PTO, hybrid work, and field gear stipends. Our hiring process involves a skills evaluation via WorkScreen, a virtual interview, and an on-site visit. Here are a few notes on the role and our mission: [paste notes here]. Please write this in a warm, human tone.”
This way, the AI helps you:
- Organize your ideas
- Polish your tone
- Improve clarity
…while still keeping the post authentic and specific to your organization.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Biologist Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Biologist — [Insert Impact/Focus, e.g., “Restore Native Ecosystems”]
Location: [Location]
Salary Range: [Salary Range] + benefits
Type: [Job Type]
A quick word from our hiring manager (≤60s): (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who We Are
We’re [Company Name], a [nonprofit/research institute/government agency/consultancy] focused on [your mission focus—e.g., watershed restoration, biodiversity monitoring, disease ecology] across [region]. Recent work includes [2–3 concrete project examples]. Our team is known for [your edge—e.g., applied science that informs policy, rigorous field methods, community partnerships].
Our Culture
Collaborative, curious, and action-oriented. We pair [field/lab/data] rigor with open knowledge-sharing, and we celebrate progress big and small. Expect clear feedback, cross-functional teamwork, and support in doing your best work.
What You’ll Be Doing
- [Example] Lead multi-season field surveys and habitat assessments.
- [Example] Design and document lab experiments tied to field findings.
- [Example] Analyze datasets (R/Python) and translate insights for stakeholders.
- [Example] Collaborate with agencies/NGOs/communities on conservation projects.
- [Example] Mentor junior team members and contribute to protocols/QA.
What We’re Looking For
- [Degree level + discipline, e.g., MS/PhD in Biology/Ecology/Env Sci]
- [Years/level of experience or “willing to consider equivalent experience”]
- [Technical skills, e.g., R/Python/GIS; fieldwork capabilities; lab methods]
- [Soft skills: communication, teamwork, documentation, stakeholder engagement]
- [Any must-have certifications or licenses, if relevant]
Perks & Benefits
- [Health/dental/vision + retirement match]
- [PTO/holidays + flex time (especially around field seasons)]
- [Annual professional development budget (courses/conferences)]
- [Field gear stipend/PPE; safety training certifications]
- [Hybrid/remote flexibility if applicable]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: Your work directly informs [policy/restoration/management] decisions.
- Autonomy: Lead studies and test new methods with support from [team/PI].
- Growth: Structured mentorship and clear pathways to [leadership/publication].
- Meaning: See tangible outcomes in [ecosystem/species/community] health.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Our process evaluates real skills (not just résumés) through a short, role-relevant exercise.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Biologist
Location: [Location]
Salary: [Salary Range]
Type: [Job Type]
Job Brief
[Company Name] seeks a biologist to [primary purpose—e.g., lead field research, run lab analyses, manage monitoring programs] across [projects/regions]. You’ll collaborate with [team makeup/stakeholders] and contribute to [outcomes—e.g., restoration plans, publications, impact reports].
Responsibilities
- [Responsibility 1—specific and outcome-oriented]
- [Responsibility 2]
- [Responsibility 3]
- [Responsibility 4]
Requirements
- [Required education/experience or “or equivalent experience”]
- [Technical skills—e.g., R/Python/GIS/lab methods]
- [Field/lab capabilities, certifications if needed]
- [Soft skills—communication, teamwork, documentation]
Perks & Benefits
- [Core benefits: health, retirement match, PTO/holidays]
- [Flex time/remote/hybrid if applicable]
- [Training/mentorship budget, certifications, gear/PPE]
How to Apply
Submit your application via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link].
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase of Hiring
You’ve crafted a job post that speaks directly to the kind of biologist you want to hire. Now comes the challenge: sorting through applications to find the best candidates without wasting time on unqualified or low-effort ones.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, You Can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Assess real-world skills in one click
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
- Hire more confidently
Every ranking is based on objective, performance-driven criteria — not just résumés or cover letters.
Next Step:
Post your new Biologist job description, share the WorkScreen application link, and let the platform handle the heavy lifting.
You’ll spend less time screening and more time interviewing the right people.
start hiring smarter, faster, and with more confidence.
FAQ
Beyond technical expertise in biology, ecology, or related fields, strong candidates often have:
- Analytical skills for interpreting complex data.
- Observation skills for spotting patterns or anomalies in the field.
- Communication skills to explain findings to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
- Collaboration skills for working with interdisciplinary teams, agencies, and community partners.
- Adaptability to work in varied environments, from lab benches to rugged field sites.
- Project management skills for coordinating research timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
In the United States, biologists earn an average of $55,000–$82,000 per year, depending on experience, specialization, and location. Senior roles in research organizations, government agencies, or consulting can exceed $90,000–$100,000 annually, while entry-level positions may start closer to $45,000–$50,000.
(Figures based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry salary surveys — adjust for local markets.)
A biologist studies living organisms, which may include plants, animals, and microorganisms, across various habitats. An ecologist specifically focuses on the relationships between organisms and their environments. All ecologists are biologists, but not all biologists are ecologists.
