Early-career STEM researchers are facing unprecedented uncertainty about career opportunities. Ecologists in dual-career relationships can experience additional hurdles to pursuing career ambitions if they must sacrifice professional mobility, earning potential, or professional opportunities to balance their partner’s career. A lack of transparency about the opportunities and pitfalls for ecologists in dual-career relationships limits the ability of early career ecologists to navigate these complexities. Women in academia are more likely to be partnered with other academics, so strategies to balance dual-career relationships are particularly relevant for increasing the representation of female academics. Outside of academia, ecologists may be required to make job decisions without institutional policies which promote spousal accommodation hires. This session will explore the diverse experiences of ecologists in dual-career relationships. We will discuss strategies for managing professional expectations throughout an ecological career, including during the PhD, post-doctoral stage, and in permanent academic and non-academic positions. In recorded presentations, each speaker will introduce themselves and discuss their background and career trajectory. In the live discussion period, speakers will present tips for maintaining and advancing their own career goals while balancing those of their partner. Speakers will answer questions submitted by listeners. We will specifically discuss strategies for managing the job search, negotiating job offers, and collaborating with a partner. This session is part of the Early Career Ecologists Section mission to help organize and enhance professional development for ecologists, and to connect ecologists with those who can help them succeed in their careers.