What does a herpetologist do?

Herpetologists work in research labs, as professors, in zoos and in outdoor field settings. They study reptiles and amphibians, do research on live species in natural habitats and review preserved samples in laboratory settings. Graduate students often work as lab assistants early in their careers.

Herpetologists that work in zoos handle and care for reptiles and amphibians. A herpetologist may also be responsible for setting up exhibits and providing care such as feeding and medication administration. Herpetologists working in the field assess issues, such as pollution and disease, that pose health risks and dangers to wild species.

Herpetologist skills and qualifications

A successful herpetologist should possess a wide range of skills and qualifications to meet the specific needs and prerequisites of your position, including: 

• Strong research skills
• A bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or Ph.D to meet the educational requirements of your job opening
• Candidate is comfortable working with the public if the position includes educating others and hosting reptile and amphibian exhibits
• Ability to work independently if position entails field work or research
• Good critical thinking skills
• Candidate is comfortable working in various settings, such as research labs, outdoors, zoos and museums
• Strong science skills

Herpetologist experience requirements

Herpetologists are hired at both entry-level and advanced levels, so specific experience requirements can vary. Research skills are essential for scientific research positions, and herpetologists seeking employment in zoos or museums are generally required to have experience working with the public. An employer may require past field or research work experience for field-based herpetologists unless the job is an entry-level position. For entry-level jobs, past education may suffice as a prerequisite for employment.

Herpetologist education and training requirements

The educational and training requirements for a herpetologist can vary depending on their specific career goals. To be considered for an entry-level herpetologist position, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement. Herpetologists who wish to pursue scientific work and field-based research must obtain Ph.D degrees.

Specific areas of study can also vary based on career paths, and master’s degrees can be obtained in both zoology and environmental studies. A herpetologist’s field of study generally includes zoology and wildlife biology. Herpetologists looking to work as university professors are usually required to obtain doctorates in biology, however certain colleges may offer positions to those with master’s degrees.

Herpetologist salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a herpetologist/biologist is $63,796 per year. It’s important to note that due to the various job roles of a herpetologist and their overall experience, specific salary amounts may vary.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this job description doesn’t match the needs of your business, consider these descriptions for similar positions:

• Zoologist
• Veterinarian
• Veterinarian Technician

Herpetologist job description FAQs

What are the day-to-day duties of a herpetologist?

Herpetologists have many duties that can vary from day to day depending on the needs of the zoo or other organization in which they’re employed. Some duties may include maintaining a clean and orderly facility, creating exhibits, feeding reptiles and examining rescued amphibians. For herpetologists that work at universities or in the wild, their duties may include documenting amphibian behavior and conducting research.

What is the difference between a herpetologist and a zoologist? 

Zoologists and herpetologists both study and work with species in the animal kingdom. The main difference between the two is that zoologists study all types of animal species and herpetologists specialize in the study of reptilian and amphibian species.

What makes a good herpetologist job description?

A good herpetologist job description should be concise and easy to read. Providing a clear description of the specific duties involved for the position can also help potential applicants if the job is suited for their experience. For example, some herpetologists work at research facilities and conduct studies, while others may work at zoos and be required to clean cages and assist with feedings.