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Marine Biologist Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Early Professional, Biologist

Valhalla, NY · On-site

$63K - $78K/yr

... marine, terrestrial, botanical, and/or avian species. Provides local assistance for the development ... entry-level technical assistance on various environmental issues. * Generate complete, accurate ...

WSP

Early Professional, Biologist

Valhalla, NY

$63K - $78K/yr

... marine, terrestrial, botanical, and/or avian species. Provides local assistance for the development ... entry-level technical assistance on various environmental issues. * Generate complete, accurate ...

WSP

NY · On-site

$63K - $78K/yr

... marine, terrestrial, botanical, and/or avian species. Provides local assistance for the development ... entry-level technical assistance on various environmental issues. * Generate complete, accurate ...

MBL

Research Assistant I for C Marsh

Woods Hole, MA · On-site

The Ecosystems Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory is seeking applicants for an entry-level Research Assistant I position with the C Marsh Project. Coastal marshes support extremely high plant ...

SeaWorld

Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred * Previous Marine Mammal ... Associate: Entry level position * Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional ...

Tidewater, Inc.

Technician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$32.53/hr

... marine communities. In this position you can expect to be working at heights, entering confined ... A Technician I will be exposed to diverse work environments, including those involving biological ...

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Marine Biologist Entry Level information

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$37K

$89.4K

$138K

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

As of Sep 15, 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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. Candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree, research experience, and skills in data collection and analysis. Networking, internships, and certifications can improve job prospects in this field.
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Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Biologist Entry Level job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 27% Temporary, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.

Ocean Internship: APTIM Marine Biology Intern

Stuart, FL • On-site

Environment Coastal & Offshore (eco) Magazine
See more jobs at Environment Coastal & Offshore (eco) Magazineexternal

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

APTIM Summer Internship STRIVE Program

This position will be a part of APTIM's 12-week summer internship STRIVE program that has been designed to provide students with paid opportunities to apply their academic skills and knowledge to meaningful, engaging, and fulfilling work assignments. Start and end dates may vary by individual, depending on the needs of the department and the intern's availability. In addition to receiving specific technical training, the program offers diverse learning and development sessions, conducted by subject matter experts, geared to broaden understanding of our various company operations and projects.

Undergraduate and graduate students with major course work in marine biology or a related scientific field with six months of experience in work related to south Florida marine habitats are invited to apply.

Marine Biology Department Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

  • Conduct biological monitoring field work with a focus on hardbottom and seagrass habitats.
  • Comfortably conduct SCUBA diving and snorkeling field work operations from a mid-size (<30′) boat.
  • Collect and organize biological data.
  • Willingness and ability to work together with a positive attitude within a small project team.
  • Ability to work in challenging outdoor conditions.
  • Ability to perform a typical field day of 10-12 hours.
  • Local travel during the day and domestic travel including overnight stays will be required.
  • Interest in assisting other geoscience departments within our office (ex. survey, geology).
  • Other work activities include assisting in field planning, safety document preparation, and other entry level duties.

STRIVE Internship Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

  • Attend a virtual orientation on the first and second days of employment to learn about the company, timekeeping, and general APTIM policies.
  • Complete a self-assessment survey at the beginning of the internship to outline areas of improvement and personal goals.
  • Review goals and job responsibilities with management.
  • Complete a weekly activity report to document tasks.
  • Participate in mid-term and final evaluations conducted by management.
  • Participate in weekly "all-hands" check-in calls.
  • Attend bi-weekly learning & development sessions featuring APTIM leaders and subject matter experts.
  • Deliver a 30-minute PowerPoint presentation at the end of the internship to discuss accomplishments, what was learned, and how the program can be improved.

Qualifications/Competencies/Experience:

  • Attending an accredited educational institution pursuing a degree in Marine Biology, or a related field.
  • Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA with at least 60 hours of coursework completed.
  • SCUBA certification required, preferably advanced or rescue level.
  • CPR/First Aid/O2 certification required.
  • Open to travel and extended field assignments in offshore environments.
  • Must have experience with MS Office software, including but not limited to MS Excel, MS Word, and MS PowerPoint.
  • Excellent critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
  • Must be available to work in various settings such as in office or remotely, depending on department needs.
  • Ability to legally work in the United States for an indefinite period of time.
  • Ability to fluently communicate in spoken and written English.
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Ability to lift 40 pounds and ability to pass pre-employment physical and drug screen.

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

Apply