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Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Coral Reef Futures Lab at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and ... High level of attention to detail and ability to anticipate needs in a fast-paced research ...

The Coral Reef Futures Lab at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and ... High level of attention to detail and ability to anticipate needs in a fast-paced research ...

Our US Central Environmental business is looking for a mid-level Ecologist to join their Natural Resources, Impact Assessment & Permitting team based in Houston, TX. In this role, you will join a ...

Our US Central Environmental business is looking for a mid-level Ecologist to join their Natural Resources, Impact Assessment & Permitting team based in Houston, TX. In this role, you will join a ...

Sr. Manager Programs

Miami, FL

$110K - $111K/yr

This will be accomplished through community engagement, coastal and coral reef restoration, marine debris removal, and climate education activities with project collaborators: Black Women in Ecology ...

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Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist information

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$29K

$62.4K

$82K

How much do mid level coral reef ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for mid level coral reef ecologist in the United States is $62,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mid level coral reef ecologist do?

A Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist studies, monitors, and helps manage coral reef ecosystems. They conduct fieldwork to assess reef health, collect data on marine life and water quality, and analyze the effects of environmental changes like climate change or pollution. These ecologists often collaborate with conservation organizations or government agencies, contribute to research publications, and may help design reef restoration projects. Their work is essential for informing policies and strategies to protect and sustainably manage coral reefs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mid level coral reef ecologist?

To thrive as a Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist, you typically need a degree in marine biology, ecology, or a related field, with experience in fieldwork and data analysis. Familiarity with tools such as GIS software, underwater survey equipment, and statistical analysis programs, as well as relevant diving certifications, is essential. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with research teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for conducting accurate ecological assessments, informing conservation strategies, and supporting sustainable management of coral reef ecosystems.

What are some typical challenges faced by mid level coral reef ecologists when conducting fieldwork?

Mid level coral reef ecologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, limited visibility underwater, and logistical complexities in accessing remote reef sites. Navigating delicate marine ecosystems also requires careful planning to minimize environmental impact while collecting accurate data. Additionally, working in interdisciplinary teams with conservationists, local stakeholders, and government agencies can present communication and coordination challenges, but it also offers valuable opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.

What is the difference between Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectMid Level Coral Reef EcologistMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Ecology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork on coral reefs, research stations, laboratoriesVaried; includes laboratories, fieldwork in marine environments, research institutions
Industry UsageSpecialized in coral reef ecosystems, conservation projectsBroader; encompasses all marine life studies, including coral reefs

While both roles involve marine environments and similar credentials, Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologists focus specifically on coral reef ecosystems, conservation, and habitat assessment. Marine Biologists have a broader scope, studying various marine species and ecosystems. The choice depends on specialization in coral reefs versus general marine biology.

How much do coral reef ecologists make?

Coral reef ecologists at the mid-career level typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in research institutions or environmental organizations.

How to become a mid level coral reef ecologist?

To become a mid-level coral reef ecologist, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in marine biology, ecology, or a related field, followed by several years of experience in coral reef research or conservation. Advancing often requires a master's or doctoral degree, proficiency with research tools like GIS and scuba diving certification, and a strong record of fieldwork and data analysis.

What cities are hiring for Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist jobs?

Cities with the most Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Coral Reef Ecologist jobs?

The most popular types of Coral Reef Ecologist jobs are:

What states have the most Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Mid Level Coral Reef Ecologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,415 per year, or $30 per hour.

Post Doctoral Researcher (Coral Reef Carbonate Budgets/Phycology) (ORSP/EPSCoR)

University of Guam

Mangilao, GU

$2 - $27.40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Title Post Doctoral Researcher (Coral Reef Carbonate Budgets/Phycology) (ORSP/EPSCoR) Posting Number RC-26-28 Full or Part Time Full Time Work Schedule
Temporary, Full-Time, 40 hours per week
Position End Date Salary Range
Grade N, Step 2, $27.40 per hour
Job Description Summary
Character of Duties:
Conduct independent research on coral reef carbonate budgets, with a strong focus on the role of crustose calcifying red algae (CCRA) as secondary reef calcifiers;
Design and implement field and laboratory experiments to quantify CCRA growth, calcification, recruitment, and community dynamics;
Carry out benthic surveys and monitoring using advanced methods (e.g., structure-from-motion photogrammetry, recruitment plate analyses);
Integrate ecological, physiological, and molecular approaches to assess CCRA diversity and function;
Analyze and interpret complex ecological datasets using quantitative and computational methods;
Lead and contribute to peer-reviewed publications;
Supervise and mentor graduate and undergraduate students;Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams and external partners;
Assist with project coordination, reporting, and outreach activities;
Perform other project-related duties as needed;
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Marine Biology, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Phycology, or a closely related field from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or foreign equivalent;
Demonstrated experience conducting marine fieldwork, preferably on tropical coral reefs;
Strong quantitative and analytical skills;
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:
Peer-reviewed publication record appropriate to career stage;
Experience with coral reef carbonate budget assessments or related ecosystem functionstudies;
Experience with marine benthic surveys in tropical reef environments (e.g.,photogrammetry, quadrat-based surveys, recruitment plates);
Experience with DNA barcoding, metabarcoding, or molecular biodiversity assessments;
Familiarity with calcifying algae and other reef calcifiers;
Experience with monitoring tools and experimental units on coral reefs (e.g., settlementplates, accretion units, ARMS or similar systems);
Experience with laboratory and imaging techniques such as scanning electron microscopy(SEM), micro-CT scanning, and 3D scanning;
Experience with coralline algae ecology, settlement and recruitment processes, and reefaccretion dynamics;
Experience with water quality monitoring and environmental data integration;
Experience supervising or mentoring graduate and/or undergraduate students;
Familiarity with interdisciplinary approaches combining field ecology, laboratoryexperiments, and quantitative modeling.
Proficiency in scripting languages for data analysis (e.g., R, Python);
SCUBA certification (scientific diving certification preferred);
Minimum Knowledge, Abilities and Skills Physical Requirements Other Information
Work Eligibility:
Submission of completed job applications authorizes the Research Corporation of the University of Guam to seek and obtain information regarding the applicant's suitability for employment. All factors which are job related may be investigated (i.e., previous employment, educational credentials, and criminal records).
All information obtained may be used to determine the applicant's eligibility for employment in accordance with equal employment opportunity guidelines. In addition, the applicant releases previous employers and job-related sources from legal liability for the information provided.
Federal law requires presentation of eligibility to work in the United States within seventy-two (72) hours of reporting for employment. Specifically, 8 USC 1324A requires the employer to verify the identity and eligibility to work in the United States of all newly hired employees. The Research Corporation of the University of Guam is required to comply with this law on a non-discriminatory basis. If you are hired to fill a position with the Research Corporation of the University of Guam, you will be required to present valid documents to comply with this law.
Police and Court Clearance:
Pursuant to Public Law No. 28-24 and Executive Order No. 2005-34, applicants selected for a position are required to provide original police and court (Superior Court of Guam) clearances of no more than three (3) months old prior to commencement of employment. Off-island applicants must obtain clearances from their place of residence. Applicants are responsible for fees associated with obtaining the clearances.
Should an applicant be convicted of any crimes other than a minor traffic violation, all applicable information must be provided in the form of a police clearance report and court clearance report. Failure to admit any felony convictions may result in immediate disqualification or disciplinary action.
Section 25103, Chapter 25, Title 10 of the Guam Code Annotated requires college or university employees to undergo a physical examination, to include a test for tuberculosis (skin or x-ray), prior to employment and at least annually thereafter. A report of such examination must be conducted by a licensed physician within a state or territory of the United States and must be submitted upon request.
Upon selection of hire, you will be required to provide additional documents (if necessary) as condition of employment.
Job Open Date 04/03/2026 Job Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
The Research Corporation of the University of Guam solicits applications to establish a list of eligibles for the following Temporary Appointment, 100% federally funded position (subject to the availability of funds):
Please apply at UOG's online employment portal at https://uog.peopleadmin.com.
The Research Corporation of the University of Guam is a drug-free work environment and an equal opportunity employer. Military family, disability and veterans are encouraged to apply. Federal Law requires presentation of proof of identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. We comply with this on a nondiscriminatory basis.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The Research Corporation of the University of Guam complies with Public Law 24-109 in reference to the provisions and requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Assistance in EEO/ ADA matters and inquiries concerning the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations may be referred to the University's Director, EEO and Title IX/ ADA Coordinator, located at the EEO/ ADA and Title IX Office, Dorm II, Iya Hami Hall, Room 104, Telephone No. (671) 735-2244; TTY (671) 735-2243; or to the Office of Civil Rights (OCR).
For technical assistance or inquiries in completing the application, please contact RCUOG HR at rcuoghr@triton.uog.edu.
Additional Information Contact Information
For further inquiries, you may contact the Research Corporation of the University of Guam Human Resources Office at (671) 735-0336 or email at rcuoghr@triton.uog.edu
Application Process