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Shark Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Golden Nugget

Biologist

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

... shark tank, a 75,000-gallon artificial reef aquarium and a 17,000-gallon holding exhibit. The ... The facility is American Humane Conservation certified and participates in ongoing conservation ...

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Shark Conservation information

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$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do shark conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for shark 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Shark Conservation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Shark Conservation, you generally need expertise in marine biology, ecology, and conservation science, often supported by a relevant degree or field research experience. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS and tagging technology, and proficiency in scientific analysis software is crucial. Outstanding communication, teamwork, and public engagement skills help distinguish you in this position. These competencies are vital for conducting field research, educating the public, influencing policy, and collaborating for effective conservation outcomes.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Shark Conservation?

A typical day in Shark Conservation can involve a mix of fieldwork, such as monitoring shark populations or collecting water samples, and office-based tasks like analyzing data and preparing reports. You may also give educational presentations, collaborate with local communities and stakeholders, or participate in outreach programs. Teamwork is common, as projects often require cooperation with researchers, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The work environment can be dynamic, with days spent on boats, at research stations, or in educational settings, depending on ongoing projects and research goals.

What is a Shark Conservation job?

A Shark Conservation job involves protecting and preserving shark populations through research, education, policy advocacy, and habitat restoration. Professionals in this field may work with marine organizations, governments, or nonprofits to monitor shark behavior, enforce conservation laws, and raise public awareness. Tasks can include tagging sharks for tracking, lobbying for stricter fishing regulations, and educating communities on the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems.

More about Shark Conservation jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Shark Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Shark Conservation jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Shark Conservation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shark Conservation jobs are:
Shark Conservation jobs near you
Wild Animal Keeper, Oceans, Wonders: Shark!

Wild Animal Keeper, Oceans, Wonders: Shark!

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY

$48K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Wildlife Conservation Society rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 34 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Position Title: Wild Animal Keeper
Department: Animal Programs/ Ocean Wonders: Shark!
Employment Type: Full-Time
Status: Union/Non-Exempt
Reports to: Animal Department Curator/Supervisor of Ocean Wonders: Sharks!
Schedule: 40 hours per week
Location: New York Aquarium, On-site
Salary: $48,119.00
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS):
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world's premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean.  We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence.  Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
Position Summary:
To provide excellent animal care and enhance the visitor experience. To perform any activity required for the life support systems necessary for animal wellbeing and exhibit appearance at the New York Aquarium. Work with elasmobranchs, sea turtles, marine fishes and invertebrates. 
Principle Responsibilities (may include but are not limited to):
  • Adhere to all Wildlife Conservation Society, New York Aquarium and Animal Department standards of conduct, policies, and procedures to ensure the standards of safety, animal wellbeing, animal training, and animal enrichment are being maintained.
  • Adhere to safety practices for self, staff, the living collection and guests.
  • Take responsibility for safety by bringing potentially dangerous situations to the attention of Management. 
  • Maintain safe and sanitary areas of food preparation/storage and animal habitats.
  • Ensure animals receive the appropriate nutrition, the appropriate food bases, and report changes through clear communication with Animal Supervisor.
  • Perform all primary, as well as, supportive roles in public demonstrations and exhibit feeds.
  • Promptly report any indication of illness or significantly unusual behavior being displayed.
  • Carry out the instructions for the care of sick and neonate animals, including administering treatments, vitamins and medication.
  • Observe the animals and their habitats for any indication of problems with environmental parameters or life support.
  • Inspect exhibits to ascertain whether corrective steps need to be taken to ensure appropriate environmental conditions, including but not limited to, inspecting filtration, water quality, lighting, temperature, and cleanliness.
  • Supervise and participate in the transfer of animals from one enclosure, habitat, zoo, aquarium, etc., to another.
  • Participate, and/or lead in the installation of exhibit materials
  • Must function in a team environment, demonstrating consideration, tolerance, cooperation, reliability, the ability to accept feedback, and a consistent professional approach to job.
  • Excellent communication skills a must.
  • Work in all areas of the Animal Department and ensure that all animal enclosures are appropriately secured at all times, regardless of the staff member responsible for the area.
  • Use operant conditioning via positive reinforcement to condition new behaviors and maintain each animal's current behavior criteria as assigned by Animal Department Management.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of established behavior goals.
  • Maintain animal husbandry, training, and enrichment records of all animals and facilitate the same for all team members.
  • Maintain a proactive approach to behavioral husbandry and anticipate behavioral issues.
  • Consistently strengthen animal conditioning skills and techniques, through observation, listening, participation, reading appropriate materials, and providing feedback to colleagues.
  • Work with the Aquarium's education department to facilitate educational programs.
  • Clean pools, tanks, exhibits, and all appropriate habitats through SCUBA diving.
  • Provide relief and coverage for a Senior Wild Animal Keeper in his/her absence.
  • Participate in the training of new staff, interns and volunteers.

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