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CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL

Current initiatives include support for the Blue Nature Alliance, a multi-stakeholder partnership to advance large-scale ocean conservation. Conservation International Ventures is an impact ...

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Ocean Conservation information

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$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do ocean conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean conservation in the United States is $36,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ocean conservation?

Ocean conservation refers to the protection and preservation of the ocean and its ecosystems. This field involves a range of activities including reducing pollution, protecting marine habitats, managing fisheries sustainably, and addressing climate change impacts on the ocean. Professionals in ocean conservation work to ensure the health and biodiversity of marine environments for future generations. Their efforts are vital for maintaining the balance of global ecosystems and supporting the livelihoods of millions who depend on the ocean.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in ocean conservation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in ocean conservation often encounter challenges such as limited funding, complex regulatory environments, and the need to balance conservation goals with local community interests. Collaboration with stakeholders—including governments, NGOs, and coastal communities—is essential to develop effective, sustainable solutions. Staying adaptable, continuously learning, and leveraging interdisciplinary approaches can help address these challenges and lead to more impactful conservation outcomes.

What is the difference between Ocean Conservation vs Marine Biologist?

AspectOcean ConservationMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, marine biology, or related field; certifications in conservation practicesBachelor's or higher in marine biology, ecology, or related field; advanced research certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, policy advocacy, non-profit organizations, research institutionsLaboratories, research vessels, field sites, academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageNGOs, government agencies, environmental organizationsUniversities, research institutes, government research agencies

While both roles focus on marine life, Ocean Conservation emphasizes protecting ocean ecosystems through advocacy, policy, and fieldwork, whereas Marine Biologists primarily conduct scientific research to understand marine species and ecosystems.

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

To thrive in Ocean Conservation, you need a background in marine biology, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and field research experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, data analysis tools, and certifications such as PADI for diving are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help professionals engage communities, collaborate with stakeholders, and adapt to field challenges. These abilities are crucial for effectively protecting marine ecosystems, advancing research, and influencing conservation policy.
More about Ocean Conservation jobs
What cities are hiring for Ocean Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Ocean Conservation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ocean Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Ocean Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Ocean Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Ocean Conservation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ocean Conservation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ocean Conservation jobs are:
Ocean Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Conservation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,939 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Specialist, Florida Conservation

Specialist, Florida Conservation

The Ocean Conservancy Inc

Saint Petersburg, FL • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 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.