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Aquatic Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

Fish Biologist

Rufus, OR

$74K/yr

Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in biology, zoology, or biological oceanography that included at least 30 semester hours in biological and aquatic science and 15 semester hours in the physical ...

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Fish Biologist

Rufus, OR · On-site +1

$74K - $97K/yr

Biology, Zoology, Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, or Biological Oceanography. OR Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this ...

Saltwater Inc

Fisheries Biologist

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Review, gather, analyze, interpret, and synthesize scientific data and technical information for the purpose of determining environmental impacts on biological resources and aquatic habitats ...

Stantec

Marine Scientist/Biologist

Topsham, ME · On-site

This support would include projects involving aquatic restoration/remediation, transportation ... Expertise in marine biological resources * Expertise in sediment collection for contaminant ...

Rentokil

Tech Aquatic

Normal, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

SOLitude Lake Management

Aquatic Technician

Tyler, TX

$35K - $35K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

SOLitude Lake Management

Aquatic Technician

Sarasota, FL

$36K - $36K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

Rentokil

Aquatic Technician

Niles, IL

$37K - $37K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

Rentokil

Aquatic Technician

Winter Garden, FL

$33K - $33K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

Rentokil

Aquatic Specialist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$91K - $91K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

SOLitude Lake Management

Aquatic Technician

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$34K - $35K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

SOLitude Lake Management

Aquatic Technician

Groveport, OH · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Knowledge of aquatic biology, ecology, and water chemistry principles, with a focus on maintaining optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. * Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including ...

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Aquatic Biologist information

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$36.5K

$63.5K

$84K

How much do aquatic biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquatic biologist in the United States is $63,488.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Aquatic Biologists face in fieldwork and how are they managed?

Aquatic Biologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to certain water bodies during fieldwork. To manage these obstacles, professionals typically plan field activities around seasonal conditions, use specialized equipment for safety and sample collection, and work in teams to ensure efficiency and safety. Flexibility, strong problem-solving skills, and thorough preparation are essential for adapting to changing field conditions and ensuring high-quality data collection.

What is the difference between Aquatic Biologist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectAquatic BiologistMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Environmental Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFreshwater and aquatic ecosystems, lakes, rivers, wetlandsOcean and marine environments, coastal areas, open seas
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, conservation organizationsMarine research centers, aquariums, government agencies, NGOs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for ecosystem focus and habitatSpecialized in oceanic and saltwater environments

While both roles involve studying aquatic life, an Aquatic Biologist focuses on freshwater and inland water ecosystems, whereas a Marine Biologist specializes in oceanic and saltwater environments. The credentials, work settings, and industries overlap significantly, but their habitat focus distinguishes them.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aquatic Biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aquatic Biologist, you need a solid background in biology, ecology, and environmental science, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis, GIS software, water quality testing equipment, and statistical tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help set exceptional professionals apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for conducting accurate research, interpreting data, and collaborating on projects that protect and manage aquatic ecosystems.

What are aquatic biologists?

Aquatic biologists are scientists who study organisms and ecosystems in water environments, such as rivers, lakes, wetlands, and oceans. Their work involves researching the biology, behavior, and interactions of aquatic plants and animals, as well as assessing the health of aquatic habitats. Aquatic biologists may also monitor water quality, investigate the impacts of pollution or climate change, and develop conservation strategies. They often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or research institutions.

How much does an aquatic biologist make?

Aquatic biologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced professionals earning over $80,000. Salaries vary based on education, experience, location, and the specific employer, and the role often requires fieldwork and research skills.

What jobs can you get with an aquatic biology degree?

Aquatic biologists can work in research, conservation, and environmental management roles such as marine biologist, freshwater ecologist, or environmental consultant. These positions often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of aquatic ecosystems, sometimes supported by certifications in scuba diving or environmental regulations.

What does an aquatic biologist do?

An aquatic biologist studies the plants, animals, and ecosystems in freshwater and marine environments. They conduct field research, collect samples, analyze data, and develop conservation strategies to protect aquatic life. The role often requires knowledge of ecology, laboratory skills, and environmental regulations.

What Does an Aquatic Biologist Do?

An aquatic biologist studies the ecology of freshwater and marine ecosystems. Their duties include conducting field research, collecting samples, making observations of plant and animal organism health or behavior, analyzing data, and writing reports on their findings. Some biologists may study a specific oceanic ecosystem, while others study systems, such as rivers, streams, wetlands, or lakes. In addition to research, an aquatic biologist may attend marine or freshwater science conferences and write grants to fund further research. Qualifications to become an aquatic biologist include an advanced college degree in aquatic science or marine biology, typically a master’s degree or Ph.D., and some people in this field pursue a career as an oceanographer or limnologist.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Aquatic biologists with advanced degrees and specialized skills in research, environmental consulting, or management can earn over $100,000 annually. Positions in government agencies, private consulting firms, or academia often offer higher salaries, especially with experience and additional certifications in environmental or marine sciences.
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Aquatic Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquatic Biologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,488 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Fish Biologist

Fish Biologist

Careers Fields -- Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Rufus, OR

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Serves as the principal advisor on fisheries-related matters. Provides recommendations regarding the development, planning, budgeting, and execution of fish monitoring programs and research coordination activities at the assigned hydropower facility. Coordinates with internal and external stakeholders to support fisheries management objectives, and evaluates biological data and operational impacts. Ensures research efforts are conducted in compliance with applicable policies and regulations.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirement for Fish Biologist:
Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in biology, zoology, or biological oceanography that included at least 30 semester hours in biological and aquatic science and 15 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences. This course work must have included:
1. At least 15 semester hours of preparatory training in zoology beyond introductory biology or zoology in such courses as invertebrate zoology, comparative anatomy, histology, physiology, embryology, advanced vertebrate zoology, genetics, entomology, and parasitology; and
2. At least 6 semester hours of training applicable to fishery biology in such subjects as fishery biology, ichthyology, limnology, oceanography, algology, planktonology, marine or fresh water ecology, invertebrate ecology, principles of fishery population dynamics, or related course work in the field of fishery biology; and
3. At least 15 semester hours of training in any combination of two or more of the following: chemistry, physics, mathematics, or statistics.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes 1) Applying knowledge of fishery issues related to Indian treaties, commercial and sport fisheries, Canadian treaty, fish passage, and /or water budget, etc., to understand the obligations and relationships; 2) Reviewing biological implications of proposed actions such as changes in project operations; and 3) Overseeing fish related operations and maintenance activities. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the second lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-09).
OR
Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position, such as: Biology, Zoology, Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, or Biological Oceanography.
OR
Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the second year (total graduate semester hours minus 36) by 18. Add the two percentages.Education:FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/Employment Type: OTHER
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About Army Corps of Engineers

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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