ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Marine Biologist Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Clinical Laboratory Technician

Rochester, MN · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Clinical Laboratory Technician (Entry-Level) This role supports a specialized Neuroimmunology ... Marine Biology, Neuroscience, or a closely related field. * Understanding of specimen processing ...

MISSISSIPPI AQUARIUM

Animal Care Aide, Seasonal

Gulfport, MS · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

This is a part-time, entry level position within the Animal Care department at the Mississippi ... Must have or be close to obtaining a bachelor's degree in biology, Psychology, Chemistry, Zoology ...

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 ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All 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 Jun 12, 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.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.
Temporary Research Assistant Pool

Temporary Research Assistant Pool

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, NC • On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Temporary

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
University Information
The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state's coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research and service. Widely acknowledged for its world-class faculty and staff and continuously recognized at a national level for scholarly excellence and affordability, UNCW offers a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry and critical thinking and a community rich in diversity, inclusion and global perspectives.
A public institution with nearly 18,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice and psychology; and many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to-BSN program, an Executive M.B.A. program structured for working professionals, and the nation's only bachelor's degree program focused on coastal engineering.
The university's efforts to advance research and scholarly activities have earned UNCW the elevated designation of "Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity" institution (R2 University) by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
UNCW has been part of the University of North Carolina System since 1969.
Department
Biology & Marine Biology - 32310
External Link to Posting
https://jobs.uncw.edu/postings/19866
Vacancy Number
Temp91SHRA
Working Title
Temporary Research Assistant Pool
Job Title
Temp Position Type
SHRA Temporary
Job Category
Research
FLSA for Position
Nonexempt
Brief Summary of Work for this Position
Work involves entry level research assignments including data entry, statistical analysis, and field work. Work may also involve the use of various lab equipment including microscopes, fume hoods, autoclave, glassware, computers, and centrifuge, as well as handling biological specimens.
Some assignments may include required other specialized knowledge as needed by the individual lab.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
High school diploma or GED or equivalent work experience.
Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Prior lab experience.
Required Certifications or Licensure
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
College/School Information
Work Hours
Varies
Work Days
Varies
Hours Per Week
Varies
Type of Position
Anticipated Hiring Range
Varies
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please note, this is a temporary position. The length of the assignment will be based on department need with the possibility of continuation. Employees in temporary positions are not considered permanent state employees and do not earn leave. Temporary employees are subject to the Affordable Care Act guidelines.
For more info/to apply visit http://jobs.uncw.edu. Applications must be submitted through the online application system to be considered.
Job Posting Date
07/17/2025
Job Closing Date
06/30/2026
EEO Statement
UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents - except where sex, age, or ability represent bona fide educational or occupational qualifications or where marital status is a statutorily established eligibility criterion for State funded employee benefit programs.
Eligibility for Employment
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. UNC Wilmington participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Number of Openings
Multi-Positions

Apply