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Aquatic Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aquatic Technician

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$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 ...

Aquatic Technician

Oxford, PA · On-site

$34K - $34K/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 ...

Aquatic Technician

Apollo Beach, FL · On-site

$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 ...

Biologist

Chesterton, IN · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Field Biologist Location: Chesterton, IN Experience: You'll rely on your education, and we'll ... Additional practices may include aquatic applications, water quality enhancement, aeration, etc.

Biologist The Downtown Aquarium in Houston, Texas is currently seeking a full time Biologist I or ... This magnificent six-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland ...

Aquatic Specialist I

Dallas, TX · On-site

$93K - $93K/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 ...

Biologist The Downtown Aquarium in Houston, Texas is currently seeking a full time Biologist I or ... This magnificent six-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland ...

Aquatic Specialist I

Dallas, TX · On-site

$93K - $93K/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 ...

Sr. Aquatic Specialist

Sanford, FL · On-site

$81K - $81K/yr

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

Fish Biologist

Ashland, WI · On-site

$74K/yr

A major in biological science that included at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects such as limnology, ichthyology, fishery biology, aquatic botany, aquatic fauna, oceanography, fish culture ...

Aquatic Specialist I

Dallas, TX · On-site

$93K - $93K/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 ...

Fish Biologist

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$56K/yr

At least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects such as limnology, ichthyology, fishery biology, aquatic botany, aquatic fauna, oceanography, fish culture, or related courses in the field of fishery ...

Showing results 41-60

Aquatic Biologist information

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$36.5K

$63.5K

$84K

How much do aquatic biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 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 is an aquatic biologist?

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.

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 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 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 cities are hiring for Aquatic Biologist jobs?

Cities with the most Aquatic Biologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Aquatic Biologist jobs?

The most popular types of Aquatic Biologist jobs are:

What states have the most Aquatic Biologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aquatic Biologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Aquatic Biologist jobs?

For Aquatic Biologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aquatic Biologist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,488 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

On-call Specialist Biologist (Terrestrial or Aquatic)

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

GEI Consultants
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Your role at GEI.
GEI Consultants is seeking multiple specialized aquatic and/or terrestrial biologists in our Sacramento office to implement project work in the environmental consulting field. This position requires a specialized level of skill and experience in a range of applications, which may include leading biological surveys in: botany, terrestrial biology, aquatics, fisheries, and/or arboriculture. Specialized experience in one or more of these fields is necessary for this position.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
  • Assisting with and/or leading protocol-level biological or arboriculture surveys/tasks, including one or more of the following: wetland delineations, botanical surveys and/or inventories, habitat evaluations, vegetation characterizations, special-status wildlife species surveys, arborist surveys, fish and wildlife species monitoring and/or relocation.
  • Collecting field data, analyzing data, and preparing technical reports.
  • Using a GPS to map natural resource features and boundaries (Trimble and/or ArcGIS Field Maps).
  • Interpreting aerial photography to identify vegetation and/or wetland signatures.
  • Write survey reports and/or environmental permit applications and/or biological sections for CEQA documents.
  • Occasional overnight travel is required.
  • A typical work day consists of an 8-12 hour day, includes irregular hours (20-55 hours per week), and irregular starting and quitting times, in accordance with the requirements of the assigned job. It may also include weekend work, as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
  • At least seven (7) years of experience in conducting biological surveys, impact analyses, wetland delineations, environmental permitting, arboriculture surveys, and/or similar activities in California.
  • Bachelor's Degree in botany, wildlife, biological sciences, environmental sciences or a related field.
  • Must hold a valid Driver's License and have a clean DMV record and compliance with company safety protocols and procedures are required.
  • Excellent organization and communication skills and experience working independently and as part of a team.
  • Experience with conducting surveys and monitoring for rare plants and/or special-status wildlife species (e.g., giant garter snake, nesting birds, listed fish species, foothill yellow-legged frog, northwestern pond turtle, and/or California red-legged frog).
  • Strong writing skills, including experience writing biological technical studies.
  • Working knowledge of relevant environmental statutes and regulations (e.g., CEQA, NEPA, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, Fish and Game Code) and associated permits.

Desired Qualifications
  • Positive, flexible, team-oriented approach, with the willingness and desire to work as a part of a multi-disciplinary team.
  • Experience conducting field surveys in the Sacramento Valley, San Joaquin Valley, Siera Nevada foothills, and/or San Francisco Bay regions and completing associated documentation.
  • Standard First Aid and CPR are preferred.
  • If specialized in arboriculture, certification from International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) is preferred.
  • Possession of Scientific Collecting Permit is preferred.
  • If specialized in botany, familiarity with documenting voucher specimens and reference populations for large scale projects.
  • Effective time management and follow-through, with the ability to simultaneously work on and lead multiple tasks/projects and meet project deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently and with a diverse, multi-disciplinary team in a fast-paced work environment.
  • Experience working with clients and managing project schedules and finances.

We are GEI.
Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply - need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients' most complex challenges.
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here .
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs - we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded - which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI's career site here .
GEI's Total Rewards Package
  • Market-Competitive Compensation
  • Pay Range For This Position: $43.00 - $67.00/hour
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • For Some Positions, Hybrid Work Schedules Are Available
  • And More...

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands:
Sedentary
x
Light
Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
X (4+ hours)
Standing
X (1-2 hours)
Walking
X (1-2 hours)
Climbing
X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
(0-25 lbs)
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
(0-25 lbs)
Carrying objects
X
Push/pull
X
Twisting
X
Bending
X
Reaching forward
X
Reaching overhead
X
Squat/kneel/crawl
X
Wrist position deviation
X
Pinching/fine motor skills
X
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
X (4+ hours)
Taste or smell
X
Talk or hear
X
Accurate 20/40
Very Accurate 20/20
Not Applicable
Near Vision
X
Far Vision
X
Yes
No
Not Applicable
Color Discrimination
X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception
X
Hearing
X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens
X
Chemical
X
Airborne communicable diseases
X
Extreme temperatures
X
Radiation
X
Uneven surfaces or elevations
X
Extreme noise levels
X
Dust/particulate matter
X
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.

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