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Marine Biologist Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech

Data Coordinator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science, Marine Sciences, Wildlife Biology, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline. * Entry-level candidates will be considered ...

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Data Coordinator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science, Marine Sciences, Wildlife Biology, Environmental Science, or a related scientific discipline. * Entry-level candidates will be considered ...

All JobsMarine Biologist JobsMarine Biologist Entry Level Jobs

Marine Biologist Entry Level information

See salary details

$37K

$89.4K

$138K

How much do marine biologist entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for marine biologist entry level in the United States is $89,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $121,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges entry-level marine biologists face when starting in the field?

Entry-level marine biologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in diverse and sometimes harsh marine environments, managing long or irregular hours, and learning to use specialized equipment for data collection. Additionally, new professionals may need to balance administrative tasks, like data entry and report writing, with hands-on research. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, conservationists, and government agencies, is essential for success and professional growth in this role.

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 generally need a bachelor's degree in marine biology or a related field, with strong skills in scientific research, data analysis, and fieldwork techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, GIS software, and data collection tools is often required, along with certifications such as scuba diving for underwater research. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting findings. These abilities are essential for accurate research, ensuring safety, and contributing valuable insights to marine conservation efforts.

How to start a career in marine biology?

To start a career as a marine biologist, obtain a bachelor's degree in marine biology, biology, or a related field, and gain hands-on experience through internships or research projects. Developing skills in data collection, analysis, and using tools like scuba equipment or laboratory instruments is also important; pursuing advanced degrees can enhance job prospects.

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

AspectMarine Biologist Entry LevelMarine Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Marine Biology or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Marine Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field research sites, aquariumsMarine vessels, research facilities, underwater equipment maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, environmental agenciesMarine research companies, government agencies, aquaculture

Marine Biologist Entry Level and Marine Technician roles share some foundational knowledge in marine sciences, but they differ mainly in focus. Marine Biologists typically conduct research and study marine life, while Marine Technicians focus on maintaining and operating marine equipment. Both roles often require related degrees and work in marine environments, but their daily tasks and career paths vary accordingly.

What does an entry-level marine biologist do?

An entry-level marine biologist typically assists with research projects, collects and analyzes samples from oceans or other bodies of water, and helps monitor marine life and their environments. They may work in the field, on boats, or in laboratories, supporting senior scientists with data collection, equipment maintenance, and basic experiments. Entry-level marine biologists often participate in environmental impact studies, conservation programs, and public education efforts about marine ecosystems. This role provides foundational experience and skills for advancing in the marine biology field.

What does an entry-level marine biologist do?

Entry-level marine biologists study and research the animals and organisms that live in the ocean and the ocean itself. Marine biology spans the study of ocean life, plants, habitats, animals, and how human activities impact the marine ecosystem. Your responsibilities in a marine biologist role include researching and studying organisms, obtaining and evaluating samples of marine life, water, and plants, and developing educational materials and presentations from your findings. You may also recommend changes to enhance the viability of marine ecosystems and assist in the conservation of plants and animals. Your duties often involve fieldwork and spending time outdoors, but they can also encompass laboratory and research work.

How easy is it to get a job as a marine biologist?

Securing an entry-level marine biologist position can be competitive due to limited openings and high demand, often requiring a relevant bachelor's degree and field experience. Gaining skills in research, data analysis, and certifications such as SCUBA diving can improve job prospects, which may involve working in remote or outdoor environments with irregular hours.

What are entry level marine biologist jobs?

Entry level marine biologist jobs typically include research assistant, laboratory technician, or field technician roles. These positions often require a bachelor's degree in marine biology or a related field and may involve data collection, species monitoring, and environmental assessments in marine environments.
More about Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Marine Biologist Entry Level job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Biologist jobs? The most popular types of Marine Biologist jobs are:
What states have the most Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs are:
Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Biologist Entry Level job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Locum Tenens, 5% Internship, 12% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.

Entry-Level Laboratory Positions

Actalent

Minneapolis, MN

$19.53/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Entry-Level Laboratory Positions | Launch Your Career in the Sciences

 

Recent Science Graduates Encouraged to Apply!

Are you passionate about science and looking for a way to turn your degree into a rewarding career? Whether you've just recently gotten your degree or looking to gain hands-on industry experience, this is your opportunity to work alongside leading scientists and researchers in laboratory environments that support groundbreaking discoveries and life-changing innovations.

 

We are actively seeking motivated candidates with degrees in:

  • Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Cellular Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Genetics
  • Microbiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Animal Science
  • Marine Biology
  • Physics
  • Biotechnology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Environmental Science
  • Or any related scientific discipline

Why Apply?

These roles are ideal for individuals who want to gain valuable laboratory and industry experience while building a career within biotechnology, medical device, pharmaceutical, clinical research, environmental testing, or healthcare organizations.

Successful candidates may have opportunities to work with industry-leading companies such as:

  • Mayo Clinic
  • Abbott
  • Medtox
  • Eurofins
  • Medtronic
  • Boston Scientific
  • Ecolab
  • Bio-Techne
  • Reprise Biomedical
  • And other innovative scientific and healthcare organizations

If you are interested in further discussing potential job opportunities, feel free to reach out and send your resume to sgesinger@actalentservices.com!

Apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding laboratory career with some of the most respected companies in the industry.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.53 - $19.53/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 10, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

Social media

Facebook

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