A wildlife biologist monitors and analyzes various forms of wildlife, including birds, mammals, plants and aquatic life, to determine how environmental changes affect their ecosystems over time. Wildlife biologist assistants provide support through various research-oriented tasks, such as collecting nature samples, observing wildlife, analyzing specimens and entering computer data on research findings. Through an assistantship, you can gain a clearer perspective on wildlife biology, as well as valuable experience that will help you secure opportunities as a full-fledged wildlife biologist. You can become a wildlife biologist assistant with the right education, experience and career direction.
1. Obtain the appropriate educational credentials. Although a full bachelor's degree isn't necessary for a wildlife biology assistantship, a bachelor's in zoology, biology or ecology will increase your competitiveness for a paid assistantship. Volunteer assistantships are available to those still in college or graduate school.
2. Search for opportunities for wildlife biologist assistantships. You can find wildlife biologist assistantship opportunities posted online at the National Park Service or Fish and Wildlife Service websites, as well as university or local community websites. You can also find assistantship opportunities on college bulletin boards, community centers or through biology professors' offices.
3. Apply for the wildlife biologist assistantship most commensurate with your education, skills and interests. For instance, if you have a degree in zoology, apply for an assistantship to a wildlife biologist who specializes in animal life. Fill out the application form and submit it along with your resume, curriculum vitae, transcripts, recommendations and other necessary documents.
4. Meet with sponsoring wildlife biologists as scheduled. During your interview, express your interest in their particular field of wildlife biology by explaining environmental research, observation and experimentation projects in detail. Speak confidently and enthusiastically about your goals and what you'll gain and contribute through the assistantship experience. Response times may vary, according to biologists' or university policy; but you should receive word about your assistantship within several weeks of a meeting.
- You can develop your interest in wildlife and bolster relevant experience by simply taking nature hikes and going to the beach or the local nature center. Even a wildlife-related hobby, such as butterfly collecting, bird watching or sport fishing, can be classified as experience toward getting a wildlife assistantship.
- You can find biology-related volunteer opportunities with your state's wildlife department or at your local nature center. These can also develop your interests, build your portfolio and expand your network.
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