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Marine Zoologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previous Marine Mammal Training and or Bird of Prey experience preferred * At least 18 years old ... Minimum of 5 years (10,400 hours) professional zoological experience Note: as a 365 day/year ...

Bachelor's degree in Marine Science or a related field preferred * Possession of a valid state ... Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience * Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years ...

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Previous Marine Mammal Training and or Bird of Prey experience preferred * At least 18 years old ... Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience * Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years ...

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Marine Zoologist information

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$10

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$38

How much do marine zoologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine zoologist 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 a marine zoologist?

Marine zoologists are scientists who study animals that live in the ocean and other saltwater environments. They research the behavior, physiology, and interactions of marine species, ranging from tiny plankton to large mammals like whales. Marine zoologists often conduct fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and data analysis to better understand marine ecosystems and inform conservation efforts. Their work is crucial for protecting marine biodiversity and addressing environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine zoologist?

To thrive as a Marine Zoologist, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, and marine science, typically backed by at least a bachelor's degree in marine biology or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D. Proficiency in data analysis software, field sampling equipment, scuba diving certification, and geographic information systems (GIS) is often essential. Excellent observation, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help marine zoologists conduct research, share findings, and collaborate on conservation efforts. These skills and qualifications are crucial for advancing scientific understanding of marine ecosystems and informing effective conservation strategies.

What are some of the main challenges marine zoologists face when conducting field research?

Marine zoologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, limited access to remote study locations, and the logistical complexities of deploying equipment at sea. Additionally, ensuring the safety of both researchers and marine life requires careful planning and adherence to strict protocols. Collaboration with other scientists and local authorities is crucial to overcome these hurdles and ensure successful data collection.

What is the difference between Marine Zoologist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectMarine ZoologistMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Marine Biology, Zoology, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Marine Biology, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, ocean habitats, aquariums, fieldwork at seaResearch labs, ocean environments, aquariums, fieldwork
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, government agencies, aquariumsUniversities, research institutions, environmental organizations, aquariums

Marine Zoologists focus specifically on the study of marine animals and their behaviors, often conducting detailed research on species and ecosystems. Marine Biologists have a broader scope, studying all marine organisms and their environments. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Marine Zoologists specialize in animal-focused research, making their work more targeted within the marine biology field.

More about Marine Zoologist jobs
Infographic showing various Marine Zoologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Zoological Specialist, Associate (Part-Time)

SeaWorld

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

At Discovery Cove Orlando, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do:

This role supports training sessions for a wide variety of zoological animal areas and programs. You will perform daily husbandry tasks, including administering vitamins and medications as directed, preparing food, and maintaining a safe and sanitary working area for all animal habitats.

  • Responsible for food preparation and storage

  • Provide and maintain a work environment that follows the established guidelines and safety procedures set by the department and park

  • Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability

  • Observe animals and report any abnormalities to supervisor and team

  • Maintain all animal records and equipment

  • Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability

  • Perform supportive speaking roles in education and general public presentations.

  • Proactively engage with guests and respond to guest inquiries

  • Work with animals using behavioral modification techniques as instructed

  • Ability to become proficient in the application of behavioral modification techniques used at SeaWorld.

What it takes to succeed:

  • Able to demonstrate strong verbal communication skills and enthusiastically share a passion for animals and conservation with our guests.

  • Must be comfortable speaking to large groups of people on stage during presentations

  • Proficient in talking on a microphone to large crowds of guests

  • SCUBA certified and have the ability to pass a dive physical

  • Able to complete provided CPR training/certification

  • Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred

  • Previous Marine Mammal Training and or Bird of Prey experience preferred

  • At least 18 years old

  • A valid state driver's license and be able to obtain a company driver's license

  • Ability to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.

  • Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed

  • Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)

  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat. Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes

  • Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals

  • Work a flexible schedule/hours based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays

  • Must be flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities

Position level and Compensation rate will be contingent on professional zoological animal care experience at an AZA or equivalent facility.

Level is determined through review and assessment of applicable experience by Zoo leadership. Experience required for each level is detailed below:

  • Associate: Entry level position
  • Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience
  • Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience
  • Senior 1:Minimum of 5 years (10,400 hours) professional zoological experience

Note: as a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.