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Manatee Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manatee County Government

Grant Writer

Bradenton, FL

$65K - $104K/yr

Generates revenues for Manatee County programs through timely submission of well-researched, well written, and well-documented grant proposals. Researches, compiles, organizes, analyzes, and ...

Manatee County, FL

Grant Writer

Bradenton, FL · On-site

$65K - $104K/yr

Generates revenues for Manatee County programs through timely submission of well-researched, well written, and well-documented grant proposals. Researches, compiles, organizes, analyzes, and ...

University of South Florida

Research Technician

Tampa, FL · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Research Technicians perform preliminary analysis of data and may produce graphs and charts for ... Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top ...

University of South Florida

Sr Research Scientist

Tampa, FL · On-site

$89K - $114K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist is responsible for leading and executing advanced translational lung ... Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top ...

University of South Florida

Research Assoc

Tampa, FL · On-site

Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top ... S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public ...

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How much do manatee research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for manatee research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Manatee Researcher, you need a background in marine biology or ecology, experience with fieldwork, and strong data analysis skills, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools like GIS software, telemetry equipment, and statistical analysis programs is commonly required. Excellent observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate with conservation teams make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for conducting accurate research, informing conservation strategies, and ensuring the protection of manatee populations.

What is manatee research?

Manatee research involves the scientific study of manatees, which are large, gentle marine mammals found in shallow coastal waters and rivers. Researchers in this field collect data on manatee behavior, health, migration patterns, and habitat use to better understand and protect these threatened animals. This work often includes fieldwork such as tracking manatees with GPS tags, conducting aerial surveys, and collecting biological samples. The goal of manatee research is to inform conservation efforts and ensure the survival of manatee populations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in manatee research, and how are they typically addressed?

Manatee research professionals often work in variable field conditions, which can include long hours on the water, unpredictable weather, and remote locations. One major challenge is locating and tracking manatees, as they are elusive and inhabit large, sometimes inaccessible areas. To overcome these challenges, researchers use a combination of boat surveys, aerial monitoring, GPS tagging, and collaboration with local agencies. Teamwork is essential, as data collection, analysis, and conservation initiatives require coordination among biologists, veterinarians, and governmental organizations. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and a passion for wildlife conservation help researchers thrive in this dynamic role.
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Manatee Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manatee Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 6% Internship, 63% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Manatee Care Specialist

Manatee Care Specialist

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Manatee Care Specialist
Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens | Manatee Conservation Department | On-Site
We're looking for passionate animal care professionals to join the team making it all possible. The work you will do here is visible, celebrated, and directly connected to the recovery of wild manatee populations in Florida.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWUSxJrDly0/
What You'll Do
You'll provide expert daily care for rescued manatees in one of the most advanced rehabilitation facilities in the Southeast - and help tell their story to thousands of guests every year.
Animal Care & Husbandry
  • Perform daily feeding, medication administration, habitat cleaning, and enrichment
  • Monitor and document manatee health, behavior, buoyancy, appetite, and reproductive activity
  • Assist with veterinary procedures, rescue response, and approved research
  • Conduct underwater exhibit inspections and behavioral monitoring using SCUBA equipment

Conservation & Compliance
  • Uphold AZA, FWC, USDA, and OSHA standards at all times
  • Contribute to Species Survival Plans and habitat planning
  • Follow biosecurity and zoonotic disease prevention protocols

Guest Engagement
  • Deliver keeper chats, tours, and conservation education that connect guests to manatee conservation
  • Practice responsible messaging that promotes habitat protection and discourages wildlife trafficking

Team Engagement
  • Higher level care specialist will have team leading and additional responsibilities.

What Makes You a Fit
You are SCUBA certified. You're observant and calm under pressure. You notice when something's off with an animal before anyone else does. You communicate clearly, document accurately, and show up for your team. You care deeply about manatee conservation - and you know how to share that passion with the public.
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Associate or bachelor's degree in biology, marine biology, zoology, wildlife management, environmental science, animal behavior, fisheries/marine science, or a closely related field, preferred.

Experience
We're hiring at three levels - you will be placed in the level that fits your background.
  • Specialist I - 6 months paid or unpaid wildlife care. SCUBA certification, preferred.
  • Specialist II - 2 years paid wildlife care + SCUBA certification
  • Senior Specialist - 5-6 years paid wildlife care + SCUBA certification

Some required experience may be substituted by a degree in life science related field.
  • Associate degree equivalent to six months.
  • Bachelor's degree equivalent to one year.
  • Master's degree equivalent to 1.5 years.

Preferred Qualifications
  • SCUBA certification.
  • Experience with marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, or husbandry
  • Familiarity with ZIMS, Tracks, or similar animal record systems
  • Internship or volunteer experience with FWC, NOAA partners, or AZA-accredited institutions

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Availability to accommodate a flexible schedule, including extended hours, holidays, and weekends, and willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Ability to participate in the response team for stranding or medical emergencies involving marine mammals.

WORK CONDITIONS
  • Exposure to various weather conditions, including extreme heat, sunlight, cold, rain, and wind.
  • Exposure to hazards such as wildlife, waste, equipment, loud noises, chemicals, and heights.
  • Potential exposure to allergens (dust, animal dander, pollen, etc.), bloodborne pathogens, zoonotic diseases, and injuries from animals.
  • Periodic work in small, enclosed, or underwater areas.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing and crouching.
  • Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs
  • Operating hand and power tools
  • Operating motorized vehicles
  • Frequent underwater work using SCUBA equipment
  • Verbal communication and visual and auditory awareness to monitor animal behavior, respond to safety alerts and communicate with colleagues and guests.

TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS
  • Must maintain a valid driver's license and clear driving record and be over age 18 to operate organizational vehicles.
  • May require local or national travel.
  • Ability to travel locally to deliver educational programs at off-site community locations.

About the Manatee Habitat
In March 2026, Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens opened the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River Habitat - a 330,000-gallon rescue and rehabilitation facility capable of caring for up to 20 manatees at once, triple our previous capacity. This is one of Florida's most significant new conservation facilities. Guests can view rehabilitating manatees directly from the new VyStar SkyScape entrance.
JZBG is an equal opportunity, drug-free employer.
Pay Range: $17 - $24 per hour

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