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Marine Biologist Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technician

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$34.65/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 ...

Technician

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$34.65/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 ...

Technician

Vancouver, WA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-26

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs?

For Marine Biologist Entry Level jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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.

Technician

Kent, WA โ€ข On-site

Tidewater, Inc.
Oil and Gas Extractionย โ€ขย 1 - 10 employees

$34.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 hours ago


Job description

THE JOB
Tidewater Environmental Services, Inc. is hiring a Technician I to join our team in Kent, WA! In this role, you'll provide industrial cleaning services that support the Pacific Northwest's industrial and marine communities. In this position you can expect to be working at heights, entering confined spaces, and operating pressure washers and high-pressure water blasting equipment. A Technician I will be exposed to diverse work environments, including those involving biological and hazardous waste material. We require teamwork, on-call availability, safe work practices, and regular attendance, with additional duties as assigned
This role will:
  • Operate commercial/industrial equipment (i.e. high-pressure washer blasting equipment capable of maintaining pressures to 20,000 psi, blowers, etc.).
  • Perform painting, industrial cleaning, and tank cleaning.
  • Operate non-DOT equipment (i.e. forklift, manlifts, scissor lifts, street sweeper).
  • Maintains and cleans catch basins to ensure that waste is handled in a fully compliant manner.
  • Support stormwater maintenance in coordination with a commercial driver.
  • Performs preventive booming, spill response and clean-up responsibilities.
  • Maneuver hoses, pumps and valves.

Why Work for us?
  • Minimum 30-hour Weekly Guarantee
  • Market- to Above-Market Wages
  • Company Paid Training & Growth Opportunities
  • Prevailing Wage Opportunities
  • Small Teamwork Environment
  • Well-Maintained Equipment and Newer Fleet

THE BENEFITS & PAY
  • Position Wage Range is dependent on experience and qualifications:

o Entry Level or No Experience: $26.03/ hour with an increase after 1040 hours worked
o 1 Year of Experience: $28.63/ hour
o 2 Years of Experience: $31.49 / hour
o 3 Years of Experience: $34.65 / hour
  • Overtime is paid for all weekend work and any work beyond eight hours per day or 40 hours per week.
  • Full-family medical/dental/vision coverage with low premiums
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • Nine holidays
  • 401(k) with 2% Company match, fully vested in match after one (1) year of employment
  • Union Pension*

* This position is represented by the I.U.P.A.T District Council No.5; this is not a seniority-based position.
THE CATCH
  • Be available to work a flexible schedule with up to 14 hour days, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Work at various heights (up to 60 feet) and in confined spaces.
  • Ability to travel throughout the Pacific Northwest region.
  • Work in various work conditions and temperatures.
  • Obtain and maintain a valid TWIC Card in accordance with the Department of Homeland security within 15 days of hire date.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and insurable driving record.
  • Must meet and maintain DOT medical clearance criteria and ability to wear a respirator (no facial hair).
  • Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) required for job site location (i.e. ear plugs, protective eyewear, goggles, life vest, face shield, crush resistant footwear and hard hat).
  • All employment offers are contingent on the successful completion of a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and a criminal and MVR background check

THE COMPANY
Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, with a second location in Kent, Washington, Tidewater Environmental Services, offers a range of services, including industrial cleaning, hazardous and non-hazardous waste transportation, wet/dry vacuum services, tank cleaning, and ship cargo hold cleaning throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of California. We operate seven days a week, 24 hours per day, to serve our customers.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
  • Submit your application at http://www.tidewaterenv.com/careers.

The characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties that may be required for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individuals currently holding this or similar positions and additional duties may be assigned.
Tidewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability.