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Aquatic Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wood Plc

Marine/Aquatic Scientist

San Diego, CA

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is seeking a Marine/Aquatic Scientist to join our team in San Diego, CA. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented and self ...

Aquatic Control Inc.

Aquatic Biologist

Truesdale, MO · On-site

Bachelor's degree in fisheries/aquatic science, agriculture, or a natural resources-related field * Insurable Driving Record * Pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening & DOT Physical * Comfortable Driving ...

Aquatic Control Inc.

Aquatic Biologist

Truesdale, MO · On-site

Bachelor's degree in fisheries/aquatic science, agriculture, or a natural resources-related field * Insurable Driving Record * Pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening & DOT Physical * Comfortable Driving ...

Aquatic Control Inc.

Aquatic Biologist

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

Bachelor's degree in fisheries/aquatic science, agriculture, or a natural resources-related field * Insurable Driving Record * Pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening & DOT Physical * Comfortable Driving ...

Aquatic Control, Inc

Aquatic Biologist

Truesdale, MO · On-site

Bachelor's degree in fisheries/aquatic science, agriculture, or a natural resources-related field * Insurable Driving Record * Pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening & DOT Physical * Comfortable Driving ...

Aquatic Control, Inc

Aquatic Biologist

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$50K/yr

Bachelor's degree in fisheries/aquatic science, agriculture, or a natural resources-related field * Insurable Driving Record * Pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening & DOT Physical * Comfortable Driving ...

Ho-Chunk Nation

AQUATIC BIOLOGIST

Black River Falls, WI · On-site

$29.13/hr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION: 1. Bachelor's Degree in Aquatic Biology, Water Resources, Fisheries Science, Hydrogeology, Environmental Chemistry or closely related field of study is required. 2. ...

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Aquatic Scientist information

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$36.5K

$63.5K

$84K

How much do aquatic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquatic scientist 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 scientist?

Aquatic scientists are professionals who study water environments, including lakes, rivers, wetlands, and oceans, and the organisms that inhabit them. They research the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of aquatic ecosystems to understand how these systems function and how they are affected by human activity and natural changes. Their work often involves collecting water and soil samples, analyzing data, and developing strategies for the conservation and management of water resources. Aquatic scientists play a crucial role in addressing issues like water pollution, habitat restoration, and the impact of climate change on aquatic habitats.

What are some common challenges faced by aquatic scientists when conducting field research?

Aquatic Scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and accessibility issues when conducting fieldwork. Managing and transporting sensitive equipment safely to remote aquatic sites can also be demanding. Additionally, they must navigate regulatory requirements and ensure that all research activities do not negatively impact the ecosystem being studied. Collaboration with other scientists, local authorities, and community stakeholders is essential to overcome these obstacles and successfully gather accurate data.

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

To thrive as an Aquatic Scientist, you need expertise in biology, chemistry, and environmental science, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field (often a master's or Ph.D. is preferred). Familiarity with data analysis software, GIS systems, field sampling equipment, and relevant laboratory techniques is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help in conducting research and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. These abilities are vital for accurately assessing aquatic environments, informing conservation efforts, and driving effective environmental management.

What is the difference between Aquatic Scientist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectAquatic ScientistMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Science, Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fieldwork in aquatic environments, coastal areasPrimarily in marine environments, research vessels, coastal regions
Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, conservation organizationsResearch institutions, aquariums, environmental agencies, universities
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for research focus and work settingSpecialized in marine ecosystems and species

While both Aquatic Scientists and Marine Biologists study aquatic environments, Aquatic Scientists have a broader focus on freshwater and marine ecosystems, often working in various water bodies and environments. Marine Biologists specifically focus on marine life and ocean ecosystems. The roles overlap in credentials and work settings, but their research emphasis and species focus differ.

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What states have the most Aquatic Scientist jobs?

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Aquatic Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquatic Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,488 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Marine/Aquatic Scientist

Wood Plc

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is seeking a Marine/Aquatic Scientist to join our team in San Diego, CA.

The ideal candidate will be team-oriented and self-directed with recent experience participating in marine science-related projects in California. Experience working as part of field teams, knowledge of field data collection protocols, particularly related to marine/aquatic sediment investigations, as well as the use of water quality instruments is desirable. Strong writing skills are required along with proficiency in with univariate and multivariate statistics, data management and analysis software such as R and/or python, PRISM, GIS software (ArcGIS), and MATLAB is strongly preferred. Flexibility to assist occasionally on weekends and outside normal business hours is required. Familiarity with water and sediment quality instruments, small boat handling, toxicology testing/data, environmental permitting, and experience with scientific diving is also desirable.

 This position requires the candidate to have familiarity with investigations primarily related to marine/aquatic sediment and water chemistry, toxicology, coastal studies, physical characterization of sediments in the field, and environmental regulations including but not limited to: the Clean Water Act Sections 401 and 404; Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) programs; the Porter-Cologne Act; the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act; the Coastal Zone Management Act; stormwater programs; and other applicable local, state, and federal environmental regulations and guidance documents.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Participating in sediment and water field collection and monitoring efforts with senior scientists and other staff level scientists
  • Operating field collection equipment and small boats (e.g., sediment and water samplers, water quality instruments)
  • Recording field measurements/notes and preparing field reports
  • Managing and analyzing field-collected data
  • Reviewing and analyzing sediment and water chemistry data and toxicology laboratory results
  • Drafting sampling and analysis plans and field work preparation
  • Writing scientific reports, including preparing text, associated figures and maps, data tables, and conducting statistical analyses of field and laboratory data as well as interpreting results in relation to appropriate regulations, permits, or other project-specific criteria
  • Reviewing analytical chemistry data reports for conformance with project directives (e.g., Quality Assurance/Quality Control)
  • Assist in Wood's San Diego-based aquatic sciences laboratory on an as-needed basis
Skills / Qualifications
  • 2-5 years of experience, BS or MS in Marine Science, Aquatic Sciences, Geology/Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Toxicology, Chemistry, or Marine Biology.
  • Familiarity with California Marine/Aquatic Environments.
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER

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