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Aquarium Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Living Planet Aquarium

Aquarium Educator

Draper, UT · On-site

$17/hr

Education Assistant Manager Compensation: $17.00 per hour Why Utah? Utah is home to five national ... research, and professional impact. Position Summary: The Aquarium Educator's role at LLPA is ...

SC AQUARIUM

Associate Veterinarian

Charleston, SC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... Aquarium at conferences, workshops, professional organizations and conduct research to be shared internally and externally through publication in peer-reviewed journals. * Assist with health ...

SC AQUARIUM

Veterinary Externship

Charleston, SC · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

... research and by providing an exceptional visitor experience. Join us in Charleston, SC - one of the ... will assist the Veterinary Department in providing health care to the South Carolina Aquarium ...

National Aquarium

SVP Chief Mission Officer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

... the National Aquarium's animal care and welfare, conservation engagement, and scientific research work. This role advances evidence-based practices that improve animal well-being, strengthen ...

National Aquarium

SVP Chief Mission Officer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

... the National Aquarium's animal care and welfare, conservation engagement, and scientific research work. This role advances evidence-based practices that improve animal well-being, strengthen ...

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Aquarium Research Assistant information

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How much do aquarium research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for aquarium research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aquarium research assistant?

Aquarium Research Assistants are professionals who support scientific studies and daily operations in aquariums. Their duties often include maintaining tanks, monitoring water quality, caring for aquatic organisms, recording data, and assisting with research projects. They may also help educate the public about marine life and conservation efforts. This role is essential for ensuring the well-being of aquatic animals and the success of research initiatives within an aquarium setting.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an aquarium research assistant?

To excel as an Aquarium Research Assistant, you need a background in marine biology or a related field, along with experience in aquatic animal care and scientific research methods. Familiarity with water quality testing equipment, data analysis software, and laboratory protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, observational skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure accurate research, healthy aquatic environments, and successful collaboration on scientific projects.

What challenges do aquarium research assistants face when maintaining aquatic habitats?

Aquarium Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing water chemistry, preventing the spread of diseases among aquatic organisms, and ensuring the proper functioning of life support systems. Working closely with biologists and veterinarians, assistants must quickly identify and address issues to maintain optimal tank conditions. Additionally, adapting to the unique needs of different species and collaborating on research projects requires strong attention to detail and continuous learning.

What is the difference between Aquarium Research Assistant vs Marine Biologist?

AspectAquarium Research AssistantMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Marine Science, Biology, or related fieldBachelor's degree typically, often Master's or Ph.D. for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentAquariums, research facilities, marine parksResearch vessels, laboratories, field sites
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, aquariums, marine research centersUniversities, government agencies, environmental organizations

While both roles involve marine environments and research, Aquarium Research Assistants typically support aquarium-based projects and maintenance, whereas Marine Biologists conduct broader research, including fieldwork and data analysis. The roles differ mainly in scope and setting, but share foundational knowledge in marine science.

What are popular job titles related to Aquarium Research Assistant jobs?

For Aquarium Research Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aquarium Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Research Assistant I

Woods Hole, MA • On-site

Marine Biological Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Marine Biological Laboratoryexternal

$20.19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Research Assistant I will primarily oversee the care and maintenance of laboratory animal colonies, including insects (primarily butterflies), crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. This specialist will collaborate directly with Patel Lab researchers to care for and prepare animals for experiments investigating the evolutionary basis of animal development in various non-model marine and terrestrial species. This position offers opportunities to conduct experiments, collect data, and analyze results for ongoing research projects and assist with yearly courses.

Basic Qualifications
• Daily observations of animal colony health and wellbeing, monitor growth, and provide care as needed to ensure optimal health and development; immediately address and notify the manager of any issues.
• Care for Parhyale colony essential to lab research, monitor and maintain water quality and environmental conditions to ensure proper growth and development of animals, feed animals, clean aquariums, prevent cross-contamination between tanks, work with & maintain the Iwaki aquatic circulation system in collaboration with the Automated Aquatic Facility.
• Support the health and management of the butterfly colony, monitor caterpillars’ environmental conditions for proper growth, managing the transition of caterpillars between different developmental stages, prepare diet, collect plant, and harvest embryos.
• Contribute to laboratory efficiency by keep supplies organized and stocked, notify the lab manager or place orders as necessary.
• Stay updated on industry news and publications to implement new methods and techniques for animal husbandry and non-model organism development.
• Collaborate with researchers to conduct experiments, including
embryo collection and injection, dissections, various protocols, slide preparation, and imaging.
• Adhere to internal MBL guidelines and federal regulations to ensure colonies are maintained in compliance.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience working with animals and/or providing animal care.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and techniques, with an interest in developing lab and research skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, and follow instructions.


Physical Requirements
• Minimal exposure to biohazardous chemicals.
• Occasional lifting of heavy objects (up to 50 pounds).

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