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Benthic Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will apply expertise in benthic ecology, taxonomy, habitat characterization, and biological data analysis to support ocean exploration missions, scientific reporting, and ...

The successful candidate will apply expertise in benthic ecology, taxonomy, habitat characterization, and biological data analysis to support ocean exploration missions, scientific reporting, and ...

... benthic macroinvertebrates) using the latest regulatory guidance and functional assessment ... BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife ...

... benthic macroinvertebrates) using the latest regulatory guidance and functional assessment ... BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife ...

... benthic macroinvertebrates) using the latest regulatory guidance and functional assessment ... BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife ...

Field Ecologist

Macon, GA · On-site

$52 - $76/hr

... benthic macroinvertebrates) using the latest regulatory guidance and functional assessment ... BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife ...

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT INTERN

Chauvin, LA · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

... the Benthic Ecology Lab, led by Dr. Stephanie Archer. These positions offer an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in freshwater sponge biology and environmental chemistry while ...

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Benthic Ecology information

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$34.5K

$59.5K

$104K

How much do benthic ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for benthic ecology in the United States is $59,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is benthic ecology?

Benthic ecology is the study of organisms that live on, in, or near the bottom of aquatic environments such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. These organisms, known as benthos, include a wide variety of species like worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and some types of algae. Benthic ecologists investigate how these organisms interact with each other and their environment, how they contribute to ecosystem functions, and how they are affected by changes such as pollution or climate change. This field is important for understanding ecosystem health, biodiversity, and the impacts of human activities on aquatic habitats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a benthic ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Benthic Ecologist, you need a strong background in marine biology, ecology, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree such as marine science or environmental science. Proficiency with GIS software, statistical analysis tools like R, and experience with field sampling equipment are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate data collection, meaningful ecological insights, and effective collaboration for conservation or research projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in benthic ecology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in benthic ecology often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh aquatic environments, collecting representative samples from difficult-to-access benthic zones, and analyzing large datasets to assess ecosystem health. To address these challenges, benthic ecologists typically rely on advanced sampling equipment, remote sensing technologies, and robust data analysis software. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including oceanographers and data scientists, is also essential for successful research outcomes and to ensure safety and accuracy during fieldwork.
More about Benthic Ecology jobs

What cities are hiring for Benthic Ecology jobs?

Cities with the most Benthic Ecology job openings:

What states have the most Benthic Ecology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Benthic Ecology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Benthic Ecology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 56% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 62% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,547 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

About @Orchard:
@Orchard is a growing Woman-Owned Small Business and federal prime contractor delivering mission-critical science, data, technology, program management, and workforce solutions. Since 2010, we have built high-performing teams and disciplined delivery systems that help federal agencies launch complex programs, sustain performance, and achieve meaningful mission outcomes.
Position Summary:
@Orchard LLC is seeking a Benthic Biologist to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Office of Ocean Exploration.
Benthic Biologist provides scientific expertise supporting NOAA Ocean Exploration initiatives focused on deep-sea ecosystems, benthic habitats, and marine biodiversity. Working alongside multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, expedition personnel, and federal program managers, this position contributes to the planning, execution, analysis, and interpretation of scientific activities that improve understanding of seafloor environments and the biological communities they support.
The successful candidate will apply expertise in benthic ecology, taxonomy, habitat characterization, and biological data analysis to support ocean exploration missions, scientific reporting, and interdisciplinary research that advances NOAA's understanding of deep-ocean ecosystems.
This position is contingent upon contract award.
Mission Impact:
This position directly supports NOAA's mission to explore and characterize deep-ocean environments by advancing scientific understanding of benthic ecosystems and the biological communities that inhabit the seafloor.
Key Responsibilities:
Scientific Research & Analysis
  • Support scientific investigations focused on benthic habitats, deep-sea ecosystems, and marine biodiversity.
  • Analyze and interpret biological observations collected during ocean exploration missions.
  • Identify and characterize benthic organisms and habitat features using imagery, biological samples, and scientific datasets.
  • Contribute to habitat characterization and ecological assessments supporting NOAA exploration objectives.

Expedition Support
  • Support planning and execution of ocean exploration missions involving benthic observations and biological sampling.
  • Assist with biological specimen documentation, cataloging, and scientific data management.
  • Collaborate with expedition teams to ensure accurate documentation of biological observations.

Scientific Collaboration
  • Collaborate with marine biologists, geoscientists, GIS specialists, engineers, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Support preparation of technical reports, scientific publications, presentations, and briefing materials.
  • Participate in scientific meetings, workshops, and collaborative research activities.

Data Stewardship
  • Maintain biological datasets, metadata, and documentation in accordance with NOAA quality standards.
  • Support quality assurance and quality control of scientific data.
  • Contribute to standardized scientific workflows and documentation.

Requirements
  • Advanced degree in Marine Biology, Ecology, Oceanography, Zoology, Environmental Science, Biological Sciences, or a related discipline.
  • Experience supporting marine ecological research or environmental science programs.
  • Knowledge of benthic ecology, marine taxonomy, habitat characterization, or deep-sea biology.
  • Experience supporting NOAA, academic institutions, or marine research organizations.
  • Experience interpreting biological datasets and preparing scientific documentation.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Occasional domestic travel may be required to support scientific meetings, workshops, planning sessions, training activities, or other program requirements consistent with contract needs.
  • Experience interpreting ROV imagery or underwater video is preferred.
  • Experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications or scientific reports is preferred.
  • Experience identifying deep-sea invertebrates, corals, sponges, or other benthic fauna is preferred.
  • Experience supporting ocean exploration or habitat characterization initiatives is preferred.

Technical Skills:
  • Benthic Ecology
  • Deep-Sea Biology
  • Marine Taxonomy
  • Habitat Characterization
  • Biological Data Analysis
  • Ecological Assessment
  • Metadata Management
  • Scientific Writing
  • Technical Presentations

Compensation: The anticipated salary range for this position depends on the candidate's qualifications, relevant scientific experience, education, and overall experience supporting similar federal programs.
What We Offer:
Competitive base salary with opportunities for advancement, career growth and professional development, work-life balance, comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), generous PTO, and paid federal holidays.
If you are passionate about deep-sea ecology, marine biodiversity, and advancing scientific discovery through ocean exploration, we encourage you to apply and help expand our understanding of Earth's least explored environments!
@Orchard is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
To learn more about our other exciting opportunities, visit our Jobs Page at www.atorchard.com .