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Entry Level Aquatic Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources EIT

Northampton, MA · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

Your Opportunity This is a multi-disciplinary, entry-level water resources engineering position ... ecological science. Candidates must have a BS or MS degree in a relevant engineering discipline.

Water Resources EIT

Northampton, MA · On-site

$67K - $94K/yr

Your Opportunity This is a multi-disciplinary, entry-level water resources engineering position ... ecological science. Candidates must have a BS or MS degree in a relevant engineering discipline.

Water Resources EIT

Northampton, MA · On-site

$68 - $95/hr

This is a multi-disciplinary, entry-level water resources engineering position that requires strong ... ecological science. Candidates must have a BS or MS degree in a relevant engineering discipline.

Entry Level Aquatic Ecology information

See salary details

$9

$20

$33

How much do entry level aquatic ecology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level aquatic ecology in the United States is $20.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aquatic Ecology vs Entry Level Marine Biology?

AspectEntry Level Aquatic EcologyEntry Level Marine Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldBachelor's in Marine Biology, Marine Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentFreshwater and estuarine environments, fieldwork, labsMarine environments, ocean research, fieldwork, labs
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, conservation groupsMarine research centers, aquariums, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on freshwater ecosystems and conservationFocuses on ocean ecosystems and marine species

While both roles involve studying aquatic organisms, Entry Level Aquatic Ecology primarily focuses on freshwater and estuarine environments, whereas Entry Level Marine Biology centers on oceanic ecosystems. The credentials, work settings, and industry applications overlap but target different aquatic habitats.

How to become an entry level aquatic ecologist?

To become an entry-level aquatic ecologist, a bachelor's degree in ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related field is typically required. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects, along with developing skills in data collection, analysis, and environmental monitoring tools, can improve job prospects. Certifications in water quality testing or GIS may also be beneficial.

What are common entry-level aquatic ecology jobs?

Entry-level aquatic ecology jobs often include positions such as research assistants, field technicians, or laboratory assistants. These roles typically involve collecting water and habitat samples, conducting environmental assessments, and supporting data analysis, often requiring knowledge of sampling tools and basic ecological principles.
More about Entry Level Aquatic Ecology jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Aquatic Ecology jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Aquatic Ecology job openings:

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

The most popular types of Aquatic Ecology jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Aquatic Ecology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Aquatic Ecology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Aquatic Ecology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,784 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Lakes Technician PT

Bella Vista, AR • On-site

Bella Vista Property Owners Association
Non-Profits • 501 - 1,000 employees

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Lakes Technician PT – Ecology, Fisheries & Water Quality Dept.

Employment Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 

Benefit Status:

Bella Vista Property Owners Association 

Department: Ecology, Fisheries & Water Quality Department 

Department #: 480

Reports to: Lake Ecology & Water Quality Manager

Safety Rating: High

Starting Pay:  

Prepared Date: August 2026 


POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Lakes Ecology & Fisheries Manager, the Lakes Technician assists with the management, maintenance, monitoring, and stewardship of the lakes within the Bella Vista Property Owners Association (BVPOA). This position supports fisheries management, aquatic vegetation and algae support and / or control, water-quality monitoring, lake maintenance, equipment operations, and related environmental programs. The Technician works collaboratively with all stakeholders and is expected to perform all duties with a strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and applicable state, federal and BVPOA regulations.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Provides support for the department as assigned by the Lakes Ecology & Fisheries Manager. In addition to other duties as assigned, will assist, or independently collect and analyze fisheries data from all seven Bella Vista lakes.

  • Operate and maintain motorized equipment and vehicles, including various types of boats, trucks, and trailers. Must be able to safely back and maneuver trailers.
  • Load, unload, transport, and properly secure boats, equipment, materials, and supplies, including heavy equipment.
  • Assist with routine lake testing and monitoring to support comprehensive chemical, physical, and biological analysis.
  • Conduct lake-management activities and projects assigned by the Lakes Ecology & Fisheries Manager.
  • Apply aquatic herbicides and other approved chemicals as necessary for the control of aquatic weeds and algae, in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, permits, and safety procedures.
  • Assist with fisheries and biological sampling to support fish-stocking recommendations and related management decisions.
  • Assist with lake testing and monitoring related to fertilization programs.
  • Assist with the implementation of fisheries management programs on recreational lakes.
  • Participate in annual electrofishing activities as directed by the Lakes Ecology & Fisheries Manager and in compliance with the state scientific collection permit.
  • Work with BVPOA clubs and community groups as assigned by the Lakes Ecology & Fisheries Manager.
  • Maintain a thorough working knowledge of BVPOA lake rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • Operate POA or personal vehicles when conducting authorized POA business, as required.
  • Comply with all POA, state, and applicable federal safety requirements, environmental regulations, and operational procedures.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this position successfully and safely, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and responsibilities while consistently demonstrating sound safety awareness and judgment. The requirements below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities generally required for the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Bachelor’s degree in fisheries science, aquatic ecology, or a closely related field is preferred, but not required.  
  • One year or more of experience at the entry level in lake/fisheries management; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a pesticide applicator license within a year.
  • Work requires continual attention to details, fine and accurate measurements as well as excellent manual dexterity.
  • Must exhibit excellence in Customer Service with all customers. 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Must obtain and maintain a valid Driver’s License and at least 21 years of age to satisfy the insurance requirements to drive a company vehicle.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is not regularly required to sit. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is required to stand, walk; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Greater than 50 pounds may require a team lift. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. Specific required movements include the following: trunk-bend, twist, rotate, push, pull, and carry, arm’s reach, and leg-lifts. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud, the air could be affected by the work area, and generally void of pollutants, may be exposed to all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold rain and snow.


GENERAL INFORMATION

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of personnel so classified. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle and prioritize multiple, competing tasks and demands and to seek supervisory assistance as appropriate. Within this position, may be required to assist or find appropriate assistance to make accommodations for disabled individuals to ensure access to the organization's services (may include visitors, employees, or others).