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Fish Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tennessee Wildlife Federation

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Fish & Wildlife Program Leader

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Responsibilities Research * Work with Federation Institute research staff to identify relevant research and information on those areas of fish and wildlife, their habitats, their management, hunting ...

Tennessee Wildlife Federation

Be Seen First

Fish & Wildlife Program Leader

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Responsibilities Research * Work with Federation Institute research staff to identify relevant research and information on those areas of fish and wildlife, their habitats, their management, hunting ...

Tennessee Wildlife Federation

Be Seen First

Fish & Wildlife Program Leader

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Responsibilities Research * Work with Federation Institute research staff to identify relevant research and information on those areas of fish and wildlife, their habitats, their management, hunting ...

Rutgers University

Post-Doc Nakamura Lab

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$63K/yr

The successful candidate will lead research projects to understand the genetic mechanisms underlying the fish diversity and evolutionary novelties. Extensive knowledge about molecular biology and ...

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How much do fish research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for fish research in the United States is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fish researcher do?

Fish researchers, also known as fisheries biologists or ichthyologists, study fish species and their habitats to better understand their behaviors, populations, and ecosystems. They conduct fieldwork, collect data, analyze samples, and may work on conservation projects or advise on sustainable fishing practices. Their work often helps inform governmental policies, protect endangered species, and ensure the health of aquatic environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in fish research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in fish research often encounter challenges such as collecting accurate data in remote or challenging environments, ensuring the welfare of fish during studies, and adapting to rapidly changing regulations. These challenges can be addressed by using advanced sampling technologies, staying updated on best practices for animal care, and actively collaborating with regulatory agencies and other researchers. Developing strong fieldwork skills, maintaining thorough documentation, and participating in ongoing training also help researchers effectively manage these obstacles.

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

To thrive as a Fish Researcher, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, or marine science, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in scientific research methods. Familiarity with laboratory and field equipment, statistical analysis software (such as R or SPSS), and data management systems is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate findings clearly are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate research, effective collaboration, and meaningful contributions to aquatic ecosystem understanding and conservation.

How to become a fish researcher?

To become a fish researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in biology, marine science, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, fieldwork, and developing skills in data collection and analysis are important, along with familiarity with research tools and environmental regulations.
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Infographic showing various Fish Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,143 per year, or $27 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Fisheries Science

Sanibel - Captiva Conservati

Sanibel, FL • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Fisheries Science
Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Marine Laboratory

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) Marine Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Fisheries Science. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career scientist to develop an independent, field-based research program focused on fish species of recreational importance within the estuarine systems of Southwest Florida.

Position Overview
The successful candidate will lead the development and implementation of a research program centered on ecologically, recreationally, or commercially significant fish species in the local estuary. The research will align with the SCCF Marine Laboratory's mission to understand and protect coastal ecosystems, while complementing ongoing programs in estuarine ecology, water quality, and habitat status and trends.

This position is designed to support scientific independence and innovation. The postdoctoral researcher will have flexibility to shape their research questions, methodologies, and collaborations, while integrating into the lab's collaborative and applied research environment.

Responsibilities

  • Design and conduct an independent research program focused on a focal estuarine fish species or fish communities of ecological and/or economic importance
  • Lead fieldwork, data collection, and analysis in Southwest Florida estuaries
  • Supervise and teach interns or other grant-funded staff to assist with fish research
  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences
  • Collaborate with SCCF scientists, resource managers, and regional partners
  • Contribute to outreach and communication of research to stakeholders and the public
  • Pursue external funding opportunities to support and expand the research program

Funding & Expectations

This position is fully funded for two years. Continued support into a third year is contingent upon the candidate's success in publishing in the peer reviewed literature and securing external grant funding. Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest and potential in developing competitive grant proposals to local, state and federal sources.

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Fisheries Science, Biology, or Ecology, or a closely related field
  • Strong background in fisheries ecology, population dynamics, or related disciplines
  • Experience with field-based research in estuarine or coastal systems
  • Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Interest in applied, management-relevant science

Preferred Qualifications

  • PhD in Fisheries Science, Biology or similar field with a focus on fish species of recreational or commercial importance
  • Quantitative skills (e.g., statistical modeling, population assessments)
  • Interests in evaluating benefits of habitat and habitat restoration to fish life history, abundance or productivity.
  • Prior experience and interest in grant writing

Location
The position is based in Sanibel, Florida, with research conducted in the surrounding estuarine and coastal ecosystems of Charlotte Harbor and the Caloosahatchee estuary in Southwest Florida.

Application Instructions
Applicants should submit:

  1. A cover letter describing research interests and fit with the SCCF Marine Laboratory
  2. A CV
  3. A brief research statement (2 pages) outlining a proposed research direction
  4. Contact information for 3 references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.  An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening. 

This position offers a unique opportunity to conduct impactful, place-based fisheries research in one of Florida's most dynamic coastal ecosystems while developing an independent research trajectory within a collaborative applied science setting.

Salary & Benefits

             Salary: $70,000 annually

             Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k) with employer match, and generous paid time off

Apply