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Marine Invertebrate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fish Biologist

Rufus, OR · On-site

$74K/yr

... marine or fresh water ecology, invertebrate ecology, principles of fishery population dynamics, or related course work in the field of fishery biology; and 3. At least 15 semester hours of training ...

Fish Biologist

Rufus, OR · On-site +1

$74K - $97K/yr

... marine or fresh water ecology, invertebrate ecology, principles of fishery population dynamics, or related course work in the field of fishery biology; and 3. At least 15 semester hours of training ...

Lead Habitat Interpreter

Mystic, CT · On-site

$68K/yr

Deliver high-quality, thematic interpretive programming across all interpretive areas including marine mammal, bird, fish, and invertebrate habitats to consistently exceed institutional standards.

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Marine Invertebrate information

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How much do marine invertebrate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine invertebrate 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 are some common challenges marine invertebrate biologists face in fieldwork and research?

Marine invertebrate biologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, remote and sometimes difficult-to-access research sites, and the need to carefully handle sensitive marine specimens. Fieldwork can require long hours on boats or diving, making physical endurance and strong safety practices essential. Additionally, collecting accurate data on small or elusive invertebrate species can be demanding, requiring specialized equipment and meticulous observation skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Marine Invertebrate Biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Marine Invertebrate Biologist, you need a solid background in marine biology, taxonomy, and ecological research methods, often supported by a relevant degree such as marine science or biology. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, field sampling equipment, SCUBA certification, and data analysis software like R or GIS is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help in conducting research, publishing findings, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for advancing scientific understanding of marine invertebrates and contributing to conservation efforts.

What are marine invertebrates?

Marine invertebrates are animals that live in ocean or sea environments and lack a backbone. This group includes a wide variety of creatures such as jellyfish, starfish, sea urchins, sponges, corals, mollusks (like octopuses, squids, and snails), and crustaceans (like crabs, lobsters, and shrimp). They play crucial roles in marine ecosystems, serving as food sources for other animals and contributing to the health of coral reefs and oceanic habitats. Marine invertebrates are also important for scientific research and some are even used in medicines.
Infographic showing various Marine Invertebrate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Commercial Dockside Sampler

Commercial Dockside Sampler

Think Tank, Inc.

Beaufort, NC

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

*US Citizenship Required

*Onsite Position primarily in Coastal locations in Southeastern US (NC to TX) with travel required

*Position is Subject to Contract Award

Position Overview

Think Tank Inc. is seeking full-time Commercial Dockside Samplers to work within the SEFSC Fisheries Statistics Division's Catch Validation and Biosampling Branch. These positions collect biological data from commercial fishing operations at coastal locations throughout the Southeastern United States from North Carolina to Texas.

Key Responsibilities

Biological Sampling

  • Collect lengths, weights, and biological samples (primarily otoliths) from commercial fisheries catches and recreational headboat catches when requested; target: 1% of total catch year weight.
  • Follow TIP and SRHS User's Guide protocols; collect data on paper forms or tablet computers as directed by the Government.
  • Prepare biological samples using proper cleaning, packaging, and labeling procedures within one week of collection.
  • Ship samples to receiving entities by the 30th of the month after data proofing/crosschecking is complete. Gulf of Mexico and all King/Spanish mackerel samples go to Panama City Lab; South Atlantic samples (excluding mackerels) go to Beaufort Lab.

Data Management

  • Enter data collected during dockside bio sampling into TIPS or SRHS web portals by the last day of the subsequent month of collection.
  • Run monthly QA/QC audits using the TIPS tool as soon as monthly data entry is complete.
  • Complete monthly data proofing by end of second month subsequent to data collection.

SRHS Support (if requested)

  • Submit Head Boat Activity Reports (HARs) weekly by each Friday.
  • Monitor vessel elogs and communicate with vessels regarding reporting compliance.

Training & Outreach

  • Assist FTE staff with sampling training sessions for new hires and TIP Partner agencies.
  • Participate in SEFSC public outreach events; submit all materials 5 days prior for approval.
  • Attend training sessions and conferences for protocol and technology updates.
  • Complete training courses and maintain up-to-date training annually

Minimum Qualifications (Required)

Education

  • MS Degree in Marine Science or a related field of study; OR BS Degree plus three (3) years of relevant experience.

Skills

  • Knowledge of fish/related biological field sufficient to independently perform scientific tasks.
  • Proficient in the use of fish, invertebrate, and protected species identification books and keys.
  • Computer literate; experienced with word processing, database, statistical, and graphics programs.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired)

  • Experience collecting catch and effort information from commercial or recreational fishermen.
  • Knowledge of biological sampling (lengths, age structures, gonads) from marine fish.