Salaries for biologists vary greatly depending on the particular field chosen, but a study has shown the median salary to be in the range of $60,000. First year biologists can expect to make around $33,000 but if they stick around and gain experience they can bring that figure up fairly quickly. Biologists in the private sector often earn salaries over $80,000 while those employed by the government, a university or college or a nonprofit organization can expect to earn between $60,000 and $70,000. Biologists with over 30 years of experience have the ability to be earning over $100,000.