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Marine Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The University of Miami

Program Manager

Miami, FL · On-site

Johnson Center for Marine Conservation Position Overview The Robert K. Johnson Center for Marine Conservation at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science seeks a full-time ...

University of Miami

Program Manager

Miami, FL

Johnson Center for Marine Conservation Position Overview The Robert K. Johnson Center for Marine Conservation at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science seeks a full-time ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer I

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

The Fishery Observer I supports NOAA's mission to conserve and manage marine resources by collecting high-quality fishery and environmental data aboard commercial fishing vessels operating in the ...

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Marine Conservation information

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How much do marine conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine conservation in the United States is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Marine Conservation vs Marine Biologist?

AspectMarine ConservationMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsDegree in Marine Science, Environmental Science, or related field; certifications in conservation practicesDegree in Marine Biology or related; research experience; often advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in marine protected areas, policy advocacy, conservation projectsResearch labs, field research, academic institutions, marine research vessels
Employer & Industry UsageNGOs, government agencies, conservation organizationsUniversities, research institutes, government research agencies

Marine Conservation focuses on protecting marine ecosystems through policy, advocacy, and practical conservation efforts. Marine Biologists primarily conduct scientific research to understand marine life and ecosystems. While both roles require marine science knowledge, Conservation emphasizes applied efforts and policy, whereas Biology centers on scientific study and data collection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Marine Conservation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Marine Conservation, you generally need a background in marine biology, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, and certifications such as SCUBA diving are commonly required technical skills. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are essential soft skills for effectively engaging stakeholders and advancing conservation initiatives. These skills are crucial for conducting research, implementing conservation strategies, and successfully advocating for marine ecosystem protection.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Marine Conservation?

The skills and qualifications that you need to work in a marine conservation career vary depending on your career choice. Marine biologists need at least a bachelor’s degree in biology, and employers may expect a master’s or Ph.D. Some marine conservationists focus their postgraduate studies on a specific subject, such as mammal life in oceans. Some colleges and universities have specific degrees in conservation. Media, education, and outreach specialists usually need a background in communications or education and knowledge of conservation efforts. A bachelor’s degree is a requirement for most of these positions.

What is marine conservation?

Marine conservation is the protection and preservation of ecosystems in oceans and seas. It involves managing human activities to prevent overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, and the decline of marine biodiversity. Marine conservationists work to ensure the health and sustainability of marine environments through research, advocacy, and policy development. The field combines biology, ecology, policy, and community engagement to safeguard marine resources for future generations.

What are the most common challenges faced by professionals in marine conservation roles?

Marine conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing ecological goals with local community or industry interests, securing consistent funding for long-term projects, and working in remote or variable field conditions. Collaboration is key, as the role frequently involves partnering with scientists, policy makers, and local stakeholders to develop and implement effective conservation strategies. Adaptability and strong communication skills are essential to navigate the interdisciplinary and sometimes unpredictable nature of marine environments.
More about Marine Conservation jobs
What cities are hiring for Marine Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Marine Conservation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Marine Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Marine Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Marine Conservation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Marine Conservation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Conservation jobs are:
Marine Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Conservation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Specialist, Florida Conservation

Specialist, Florida Conservation

The Ocean Conservancy Inc

Saint Petersburg, FL • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

POSITION TITLE:

Specialist, Florida Conservation

DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM:

Florida Conservation

REPORTS TO:

Director of Florida Conservation

STATUS:

Full Time

LOCATION:

Florida


ABOUT OCEAN CONSERVANCY

For more than 50 years, Ocean Conservancy has delivered effective, evidence-based solutions for the ocean and all who depend on it. Today, we continue to unite science, people and policy to protect our ocean from the greatest challenges it faces: climate change, plastic pollution and biodiversity loss. We are a 501(C)3 headquartered in Washington, D.C. that inspires a worldwide network of partners, advocates and supporters through our comprehensive and clear-eyed approach to ocean conservation. Together, we are securing a healthy ocean and a thriving planet, forever and for everyone.

POSITION SUMMARY

As a core member of Ocean Conservancy’s Florida Conservation Team, the Specialist, Florida Conservation will provide critical mission support, added capacity and will expand and enhance the organization’s ability to work with partners in state and local governments and within the conservation community across Florida. The Specialist will serve as a key point of contact with both existing and new local government partners and will provide critical staff support for flagship projects such as marine plastics assessments and grassroots advocacy, sea level rise and climate change initiatives, water quality and abundance interventions, and marine wildlife and habitat protection efforts. The Specialist will also represent Ocean Conservancy in public appearances, testimony and in outreach and education activities.

The Specialist will report to the Director of Florida Conservation, and will based in Florida, either in person from our St. Petersburg office, or remotely.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Network and partner with state and local government officials on marine conservation priorities in target regions of Florida including South Florida, West Central Florida, Southwest Florida, the I-4 corridor, and Northeast Florida.
  • Network with environmental NGO peers and partners statewide to maximize impact for marine conservation
  • Network with impacted stakeholders on issues including water quality and abundance, sea level rise and climate change, marine debris and ocean plastics, and habitat and wildlife
  • Represent Ocean Conservancy in public settings, including events such as conventions, symposia, and restoration and cleanup events
  • Provide public testimony to local and state government on marine conservation issues, for example in support of marine debris regulation or fertilizer ordinances
  • Help develop and refine Ocean Conservancy’s policy positions on marine conservation issues affecting the state

REQUIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

The successful candidate will, at a minimum, possess the following qualifications:

  • One to five years of experience in the field of environmental conservation in Florida; an advanced degree (in science, law, policy, or a field related to conservation) will be considered in lieu of experience.
  • A genuine, ardent passion for the conservation of Florida’s marine environment, and a deep connection to the state and its ecosystems.
  • Familiarity and experience with the latest marine conservation issues in Florida, and with the potential spectrum of solutions to address those issues – this includes water quality and abundance, nutrient pollution, plastic pollution and marine debris, sea level rise and climate change, and threats to wildlife and habitat, among others.
  • Innate empathy and a willingness to work with people from across economic and political spectrums and from diverse communities to achieve a greater good
  • Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal; facility with public speaking; experience and comfort with speaking to the media a plus.
  • Experience and familiarity with environmental policy analysis and advocacy and a desire to develop policy positions that will have a positive impact for Florida’s marine environment
  • Highly detail oriented, adaptable, well-organized, and self-starting – ability to work independently and manage up
  • Highly collaborative and outgoing with large, multi-disciplinary teams

EDUCATION/TRAINING

  • Bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to Ocean Conservancy’s marine conservation mission

COMPENSATION

Ocean Conservancy is committed to fair pay practices and posts expected salary ranges for each of its positions. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate’s specialty skills, years of experience, location, and unique background. The expected salary range for this role is $60,000 - $65,000 annually. We would welcome the opportunity to connect with potential candidates whose salary requirements may be outside of the expected range.

TO APPLY

If you think you’d be a great fit for the job and are interested in joining Ocean Conservancy’s team, please apply here. Please include a resume and cover letter in one file on your application.

HYBRID WORK ENVIRONMENT

Ocean Conservancy embraces a hybrid work environment, which allows our staff the flexibility to work virtually and in-person while building strong connections across the institution.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Ocean Conservancy provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We encourage applicants who have a diverse level and range of relevant skills and experiences to apply. A 100% match is not required. We want to support employees’ career growth and in return, our employees help Ocean Conservancy grow into a stronger, more inclusive institution.