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Entry Level Marine Biology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Marine Biology information

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$15

$25

$35

How much do entry level marine biology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level marine biology in the United States is $25.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are the Qualifications to Get an Entry-Level Marine Biology Job?

The qualifications to get an entry-level marine biology job typically include a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, biology, or a closely related life science, such as ecology. You should also have strong technical skills, experience gathering data, and experience in a lab environment. If you work as a fishing inspector, you must have a good grasp of federal and state regulations. Instructors usually need some previous teaching experience. In addition to technical skills and education, you need to have strong observational and communication skills for any entry-level marine biology job.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for an entry-level marine biologist?

Entry-level marine biologists often assist with fieldwork, such as collecting water and biological samples, monitoring marine life populations, and recording environmental data. In addition, they may spend time in the laboratory analyzing samples, entering data, and maintaining research equipment. Collaboration is frequent, as these professionals typically work under the guidance of senior researchers and coordinate with other team members to support ongoing projects. The role offers a mix of outdoor and indoor tasks, providing valuable hands-on experience in marine research.

What is the difference between Entry Level Marine Biology vs Entry Level Marine Technician?

AspectEntry Level Marine BiologyEntry Level Marine Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Marine Biology or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Marine Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field research, marine protected areasMarine vessels, research facilities, underwater equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, environmental agenciesMarine research companies, aquariums, government agencies

Entry Level Marine Biology focuses on studying marine organisms and ecosystems, often involving research and data analysis. In contrast, Entry Level Marine Technician primarily handles the maintenance and operation of marine equipment and technology. Both roles require technical skills and may involve fieldwork, but Marine Biology emphasizes scientific research, while Marine Technician centers on technical support and equipment management.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Marine Biologist, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, and oceanography, generally supported by a bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field. Familiarity with data collection tools, statistical software like R or Python, and experience with laboratory or field equipment are often required. Curiosity, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in research and collaborative environments. These competencies are crucial for accurate data analysis, meaningful scientific contributions, and successful project execution in marine science.

Is it easy to get a job with a marine biology degree?

Entry level marine biology positions can be competitive due to limited openings and high demand, but having relevant skills such as fieldwork experience, certifications, and strong research abilities can improve job prospects. Many roles require internships or volunteer work to gain practical experience before securing full-time employment.

What are entry level marine biology jobs?

Entry level marine biology jobs typically include research assistant, laboratory technician, aquarist, or field technician roles. These positions often require a bachelor's degree in marine biology or a related field and may involve data collection, habitat monitoring, or assisting with scientific studies in marine environments.

What jobs can I get if I major in marine biology?

Entry-level marine biologists can work in research, environmental consulting, aquariums, or conservation organizations. Common roles include research assistant, marine technician, or education specialist, often requiring knowledge of fieldwork, data analysis, and sometimes certifications like SCUBA diving or first aid.

How to start a career in marine biology?

To start a career in marine biology, obtain a bachelor's degree in marine biology, biology, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects is essential, along with developing skills in data collection, analysis, and use of scientific tools. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree and specialized training.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Marine Biology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Marine Biology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Biology jobs? The most popular types of Marine Biology jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Marine Biology jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Marine Biology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Marine Biology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,565 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Lecturer - Marine Science

Lecturer - Marine Science

Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Hawaii Pacific University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $55,000.00 Annually
Location : HPU Downtown Campus; Honolulu
Job Type: Faculty - Regular Full Time
Job Number: 02730
Department: Department of Marine Science
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Hawai'i Pacific University is designated as an Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian (ANNH) Serving Institution by the US Department of Education. As such, we strive for accurate displays of the Hawaiian language in all our institutional materials. This includes the appropriate use of diacritical marks such as the 'okina and kahako. Unfortunately, at times external vendors and other third-party technology integrations do not support the use of these characters. Mahalo for your understanding.
Description
Job Summary:
Serve as academic professional to deliver, coordinate, and develop courses and provide service to and on behalf of the University. Plan and supervise semester activities that meet course objectives, maintain records on and evaluate student performance, assign grades. The teaching load will be thirty contact hours per academic year, with an additional five hours weekly of required office hours.
Location: This position will be based out of our downtown Honolulu campuses.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Marine Science, Biology, Environmental Science, or closely related field.
  • Experience and enthusiasm for teaching undergraduate science courses.
  • Demonstrated expertise in marine biology, oceanography, biology, or environmental science
  • Ability to teach entry level or advanced courses in marine science, biology, and/or related courses.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. or other terminal degree in Marine Science, Biology, Environmental Science or closely related field.
  • Three or more years of experience teaching college students
  • One or more years of experience teaching field and/or laboratory courses in marine science or related courses

Other Qualifications:
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship and relocation allowance are not available for this position.
  • Report to work obligations to support the department and may require work during HPU's winter break, if necessary.
  • This position may be considered an essential position with report to work obligations depending on the type of emergency, campus closure, or evacuation.
  • Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Protection of Minors policy.
  • This position may also require driving responsibility for an HPU vehicle. Due to driving responsibilities, you must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with HPU's Vehicle Driving policy.
  • Able to teach classes scheduled during days, evenings, and weekends.
  • Able to teach classes at multiple locations on Oahu.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment requiring excellent time and stress management skills.

Key Responsibilities/Essential Job Functions:
  1. Teaching (85%)

  • Develop a syllabus of course activities that meets the requirements of the course description and of the program, establishes appropriate student learning outcomes, and provides for appropriate class activities throughout the semester.
  • Plan and deliver individual courses that conform to the syllabus and other requirements of the University.
  • Maintain accurate and complete records on student participation and performance, evaluate student performance on the basis of established student learning outcomes, and assign grades.
  • Submit required documents (including grades) in a timely manner.
  • Hold office hours to advise students regarding their course work

2. Service to Department, College and University (10%)
  • Assist as required in program assessments.
  • Advise students, assisting students in understanding the curriculum within the major
  • Meet deadlines following directions of the department chair, associate dean, or dean of the college.

3. Performs other related duties as assigned (5%)
  • Actively participates as an effective member of team by completing assigned duties, accepting additional assignments or reassignments.

This description is not designed to list all activities, duties or responsibilities which may be required for this job. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned at any time.
Hawaii Pacific University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable environment in which faculty and staff can excel irrespective of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, or any other protected class covered by state and federal law. Hawaii Pacific University encourages applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities. A pre-employment background investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants, including individuals with disabilities. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and hiring process. If you require an accommodation, please contact hr@hpu.edu to request assistance.
Hawai'i Pacific University is a learning community where staff, faculty, and more than 5,000 students come together from around the world to learn and work in a spirit of caring, honesty, freedom, and 'ohana (family).
Cooperation, communication, and collegiality are the foundation of our community. We fulfill the responsibilities of our educational mission through mutual trust and respect, innovation and involvement, expertise, and intellectual fellowship. We offer all members of our community the opportunity to excel, including resources and rewards commensurate with individual contributions and potential. As a team, we are committed to serving our local and global communities and embrace our values of aloha, pono, and kuleana.
We seek talented and energetic people who thrive on challenge and innovation in supporting the mission and values of our university. HPU offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
For student employment, please visit
Why consider a career with HPU? Here are some of the benefits of employment . . .
Time Off A generous schedule that recognizes 15 holidays annually, plus winter break days off between Christmas and New Year's. Eligible employees also receive vacation, sick and other types of paid leave.
Tuition Waiver Full time employees and spouse/dependent children pursuing a higher education degree at HPU may apply for a tuition waiver.
Health and WellnessComprehensive health insurance, life and disability insurance, employee assistance program and wellness program.
Retirement Plan Eligible employees can start saving for the future and enroll in the Hawai'i Pacific University 403(b) retirement plan upon hire.
Discounts Discounts for products and services including airlines, rental car, hotels, theme parks, attractions, gift cards, restaurants, and more.
01
Do you have a Master's degree in Marine Science, Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have experience teaching undergraduate-level science courses in a classroom or online setting?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have academic training or professional experience in marine biology, oceanography, biology, environmental science, or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you able to teach entry-level and/or advanced courses in marine science, biology, or related disciplines?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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