Herpetologist Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a herpetologist. Feel free to use our herpetologist job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a herpetologist.
Who is a Herpetologist?
A herpetologist is a specialist in amphibians and reptiles, such as turtles, frogs, lizards, and snakes. They research these animals’ behaviors, habitats, genetics, physiology, and development. Numerous herpetologists also devote the majority of their research and efforts to the conservation of species. Herpetologists frequently work in colleges and universities, conducting research in their areas of specialization. Others may work in museums, zoos, or institutions dedicated to biological research.
Herpetologists can specialize in several different areas within their field. For instance, they may choose to focus on particular anatomical features of the animals they study. Others may elect to investigate various developmental or genetic characteristics of their subjects. Numerous herpetologists conduct field research.
The responsibilities of a herpetologist vary according to their field of study and employer. Their work may require them to identify potential threats to animals or their environments in the field or to collect and study specimens in lab settings.
Herpetology encompasses the classification, behavior, biology, physiology, evolution, and ecology of reptiles and amphibians. Herpetologists frequently specialize in one area, such as ecology or taxonomy, or on a subgroup of reptiles and amphibians, such as snakes or frogs. They can pursue a variety of careers in conservation, research, creative endeavors, and education.
A herpetologist is a zoologist who studies reptiles and amphibians, such as crocodilians, amphisbaenians, lizards, snakes, turtles, and tortoises. The term “herpetology” derives from the Greek word herpeton, which translates as “to creep.” Field herping is the study and collection of these animals, as well as their identification through guidebooks and other materials.
A bachelor’s degree in biology or herpetology is typically required for entry-level positions at zoos, government agencies, and field biology institutions. Herpetologists interested in teaching at the university level or advancing their careers in the field typically require a master’s or doctoral degree, though requirements vary by career type and region. This field can be challenging to work in, as entry-level positions are frequently underpaid or unpaid entirely. While pursuing an advanced degree, many people find work in the animal side of the profession. With an advanced degree, an individual can teach, work for the government or non-profit organizations, take on additional responsibilities at a zoo or animal habitat, or even consult on environmental issues.
Individuals considering a career in reptile research should research their educational options in advance. Consult with professionals in the field; visit museums, zoos, and aquariums; join a regional or international herpetological society, and read articles in scientific journals to learn more about herpetology as a career. Field observation is also critical, and obtaining volunteer work or internships is an excellent way to determine whether a career is a good fit.
A herpetologist’s work environment can be quite varied, and most choose to combine their expertise with other fields such as education, consulting, or animal breeding. Some choose to devote their careers to conducting research and publishing their findings in scientific journals, while others work for wildlife agencies, zoos, and museums. Others may work more closely with animals, as animal breeders or photographers.
Herpetologists contribute to reptile and amphibian conservation. Additionally, they assist the medical profession by providing information about toxins and venoms or by working in poison control centers. Numerous individuals are engaged in ecological research and work for colleges, governments, or non-profit organizations that are attempting to understand why amphibian species are declining. Additionally, some individuals with an interest in this field choose not to pursue careers in herpetology but rather pursue it as a hobby in their spare time.
Herpetologists conduct field research on animals in the wild, identifying and assessing potential threats posed by pollution, invasive species, disease, and other factors. They frequently conduct inventories or population estimates of animals. Herpetologists research their behavior, development, genetics, and distribution to gain a better understanding of their ecological niches, the ecosystem services they provide, and the threats they face. They may make policymakers recommendations on how to protect them. Because many reptiles and amphibians are considered “indicator species,” their research can be used to assess overall environmental changes. Herpetologists may be involved in the planning and management of disease prevention and conservation programs. Numerous firms conduct environmental or wildlife impact studies for the government. They may disseminate their findings through journal articles or oral presentations at professional conferences. Certain organizations educate the public through programs and lectures.
Herpetologist Job Description
Below are the herpetologist job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a herpetologist job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
The duties and responsibilities of a herpetologist include the following:
- Investigating reptiles and amphibians’ behavior.
- Collaborating with policymakers to advance conservation and education initiatives
- Developing disease-control strategies
- Informing others about your research or discoveries
- Cataloging, documenting, and distributing specimens and samples to museums and researchers.
- Caring for animals under the supervision of the research institution or herpetologist Review and publish herpetological literature
- Creating systems to keep track of your analyses and observations.
- Collecting and analyzing specimens of animals
- Conducting an inventory of the animal population’s size
- Ascertaining that all research activities adhere to applicable environmental laws and regulations
- Conducting research on animals in their natural habitats
- Conducting assessments of the environment’s and industry’s impact on animal habitats
- Developing recommendations for industry-specific alternative operational procedures based on the interpretation of findings
- Sorting animals according to their characteristics
- Preparing preserved specimens or microscopic slides to study disease development and progression
- Making recommendations for wildlife population and habitat management systems and planning
- Organizing the exhibition and taking care of the enclosures
- Taking an ethical role in the acquisition, disposition, transportation, and adoption of reptiles.
Qualifications
Most herpetologist positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, and many employers prefer candidates with degrees in biology or a closely related field. Certain schools offer herpetology and invertebrate zoology concentrations, which can provide an even more specialized introduction to the field. Concentrate your education on biology, natural history, chemistry, and zoology. These can assist you in developing the necessary skills and knowledge for future academic or research positions.
If you intend to conduct fieldwork in other countries, learning multiple languages may also be a requirement for the position. This enables you to collaborate with scientists from other countries and communicate with indigenous people. Because herpetology positions frequently require advanced degrees, consider pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in a field related to herpetology. These can help you qualify for faculty positions at schools and expand your career opportunities.
Essential Skills
- Research
Research skills are critical for herpetologists because they enable them to collect accurate data and make accurate observations about animals. Understanding the scientific method, reviewing proper procedures for examining specimens and animals, and learning to study reptiles and invertebrates in their natural habitats can all help you perform your job more effectively. You may publish papers based on your findings, and being familiar with professional research techniques will help you establish credibility with your peers.
- Detail-oriented
A herpetologist’s attention to detail is another necessary skill. Because the distinctions between species can be quite subtle at times, attention to detail is a necessary skill for identification. Additionally, it can assist scientists in identifying changes in animal behavior and correlating certain behaviors to specific causes. When studying animals, it’s critical to consider their external environments, how their internal structures support their lifestyles, and how they interact with others of their kind.
- Communication
Herpetologists must have excellent communication skills, even more so if they teach others or work with policymakers. Their abilities enable them to communicate vital information about animals and their habitats. Working for conservation may require strong communication skills and enthusiasm. Assisting students in comprehending your commitment to your work may also rely on your ability to communicate critical concepts and ideas.
- Writing
Numerous herpetologists in research positions publish their findings in journals and other scholarly publications. Writing abilities can aid them in effectively communicating their ideas and earning the respect of others in their field. The publication is frequently a primary objective for those working as researchers, educators, or professional scientists.
- Teamwork
Herpetologists may collaborate with other scientists to research a particular aspect of herpetology. Teamwork abilities can assist you in collaborating with others and contributing to group efforts. Effective collaboration with other researchers, activists, and faculty members is critical to your professional success.
- Collecting and analyzing data
Numerous herpetologists conduct research in laboratories or on the ground to aid in the conservation of reptile and amphibian species. The ability to effectively collect and analyze data can aid them in overcoming complex challenges in these areas.
- Outdoor abilities
If you choose a career in reptile and amphibian conservation, you will likely spend the majority of your time outdoors conducting research and other projects. When necessary, hiking, camping, climbing, and off-road driving skills can assist you in working in remote areas.
- Fitness and endurance
If you choose a career in conservation or zookeeping, you will likely spend a significant amount of time outdoors or on your feet. Physical fitness and stamina can help you care for animals more effectively and safely, as well as to conduct field research.
How to Become a Herpetologist
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree
A bachelor’s degree is a critical first step toward becoming a herpetologist. While the majority of undergraduate programs do not offer herpetology degrees, numerous other majors can help prepare you for a career in the field. Consider enrolling in a program in biology, zoology, wildlife conservation, or ecology. When selecting a degree, make an effort to select one that adequately prepares you for your desired career path. For instance, if you’re interested in reptile conservation, consider studying ecology or wildlife conservation; if you’re interested in research, consider studying biology or zoology.
While the majority of full-time students complete their degrees in four years, some may require additional time. If you wish to work while completing your studies, it may be beneficial to enroll in an online or hybrid course that allows for greater scheduling flexibility. Additionally, some colleges may offer accelerated programs, including summer sessions. If you have some time on your hands and want to accelerate your degree completion, you may want to consider these courses.
- Pursue a graduate education
While a bachelor’s degree may be sufficient for some herpetology jobs, many positions require a master’s or doctoral degree. This is especially critical for positions in research and higher education. Certain universities offer graduate degrees in herpetology, while others offer courses in zoology, conservation, and biology that can help you prepare for a career in herpetology. If you choose a biology or zoology course, you can frequently specialize in reptiles and amphibians.
The majority of students earn their master’s degrees in two years. If they choose to work while pursuing their degree, the process may take longer. Earning a Ph.D. can take a variety of years, depending on the type of research chosen by students. On average, it takes approximately five to six years for a full-time student to complete their Ph.D.
- Decide on a specialty and career path
It’s critical to determine your career path after completing your education. This can assist you in determining the next steps to take. For instance, if you’re interested in pursuing a research position or a position in higher education, it may be beneficial to develop relationships with professors and researchers and to emphasize your academic credentials. If you are interested in ecology, consider volunteering with wildlife or conducting fieldwork. Additionally, you could consider specializing in a particular branch of herpetology, such as testudinology (the study of turtles and tortoises) or batrachology (the study of frogs).
- Conduct internship searches
Internships are frequently an excellent way to gain experience in herpetology and network with professionals. They are particularly beneficial for professionals involved in ecology and conservation. To get started, speak with professors and career counselors at your college. These professionals may be aware of available internships and can assist you in completing an application.
After earning your degree, you can apply for government ecology and conservation positions with agencies such as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the United States National Park Service. Additionally, you can look for internships with state government agencies and nonprofit conservation organizations. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a reptile or amphibian caretaker, consider applying for internships or volunteering at local zoos and aquariums.
- Establish a network and conduct research in the field
Developing a professional network is one of the most effective strategies for locating opportunities in the field of herpetology. It’s beneficial to begin developing a network while in college by becoming acquainted with your professors. Additionally, you can gain experience and meet herpetology professionals by participating in university research and attending lectures and events presented by professionals in biology, conservation, and zoology.
- Strengthen your abilities
If you want to pursue a career in herpetology, it is frequently beneficial to maintain a steady level of proficiency in the field. You can develop your skills while working in herpetology or other fields before entering the field.
Where to Work as a Herpetologist
Herpetologists work in a variety of fields, including the following:
- Zoos, aquariums, and museums
Numerous herpetologists find employment in zoos and aquariums. They are frequently responsible for feeding and caring for reptiles and amphibians in these settings, as well as providing educational talks to visitors. Herpetologists may also work in museums as curators of reptile and amphibian exhibits.
- Ecology
Several herpetologists work in conservation for private or public institutions. These professionals frequently conduct fieldwork to ascertain and mitigate threats to the local reptile and amphibian populations. This may include population inventories, disease control, habitat rehabilitation, and reintroduction of endangered species, as well as the creation of reports and recommendations for regulators.
Herpetologist Salary Scale
In the United States, the average annual salary for a herpetologist is $51,826.