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Manatee Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 Jul 13, 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.
More about Manatee Research jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Manatee Research jobs? The most popular types of Manatee Research jobs are:
What states have the most Manatee Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Manatee Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Manatee Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Advanced Research Scientist

Advanced Research Scientist

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


University Of South Florida rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Nature of Work: Performs a variety of lab and/or field experiments which require competency with standard and more advanced scientific techniques and equipment in disciplines such as molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, physiology, and pathology/microscopy. Work also includes contribution to the design, execution, and troubleshooting of the experiments. Modifications to the methods is expected to be based on familiarity with the essential underlying principles, and are made in a semiautonomous manner. The individual may act as a laboratory expert in certain specialized techniques, such as physiologic, molecular, genomic, or microscopic methods. Analysis of results may rise to a greater level than Research Scientist.

This position is eligible for Visa Sponsorship. Grant-Funded.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

This position requires a Bachelor's degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 2 years of experience.

  Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S.

  SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements

  A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed: (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree; 

(b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree;

  (c) Six years of direct experience for a master's degree; 

(d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or 

(e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree

Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment.

  Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

  • Work includes contribution to the design, execution, and troubleshooting of the experiments. 
  • Modifications to the methods is expected to be based on familiarity with the essential underlying principles, and are made in a semiautonomous manner. The individual may act as a laboratory expert in certain specialized techniques, such as physiologic, molecular, genomic, or microscopic methods. Analysis of results may rise to a greater level than Research Scientist.
  • Provides data or figures of publication quality for manuscripts or grants. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What University Of South Florida employees say

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About University of South Florida

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of South Florida (USF), located in Tampa, FL, US, is a highly respected, long-standing institution specializing in teaching, research, and public service. It operates within the higher education industry and offers over 180 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs, across disciplines ranging from arts and sciences to business, engineering, and healthcare. Founded in the year 1956, USF has relentlessly strived to develop an environment conducive to learning and research, which over the years, has earned it a preeminent status among public universities across the globe. USF's mission is to foster a vibrant, student-centric learning environment that instills an expansive intellectual foundation to drive success. USF is known for its considerable impact on regional and state economies, contributing $5 billion annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1956

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