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Temporary Marine Conservation Diving Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Naturalist

Lahaina, HI · On-site

$16.20/hr

Conduct community outreach/education/conservation activities as directed by the Vessel Operations ... Extensive hands-on experience in the marine industry; boating, ocean recreation, fishing, diving ...

Naturalist

Wailuku, HI · On-site

$16.20/hr

Conduct community outreach/education/conservation activities as directed by the Vessel Operations ... Extensive hands-on experience in the marine industry; boating, ocean recreation, fishing, diving ...

$34.65 - $38.85/hr

This role includes navigating and managing vessels for activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving ... marine life, local history, and ocean conservation when appropriate. * Assist in emergency ...

Showing results 21-40

Temporary Marine Conservation Diving information

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$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do temporary marine conservation diving jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary marine conservation diving 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 temporary marine conservation diving?

Temporary marine conservation diving refers to short-term positions or volunteer opportunities where divers assist with marine conservation efforts. These roles typically involve tasks such as underwater surveys, coral reef monitoring, removal of invasive species, and data collection to support marine research. The positions are usually project-based and last from a few weeks to several months. Participants often work alongside scientists and conservationists to help protect marine ecosystems. These opportunities are ideal for those looking to gain hands-on experience in marine biology and conservation, especially if they have a passion for diving.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary marine conservation diving professional?

To thrive as a Temporary Marine Conservation Diving professional, you need strong scuba diving skills (often PADI Open Water or Advanced certification), knowledge of marine biology, and physical fitness. Experience with underwater survey methods, GPS devices, and data recording tools is typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and attention to detail help ensure safety and accurate data collection in variable marine environments. These skills are vital for contributing to effective conservation efforts, maintaining diver safety, and producing reliable research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced in a temporary marine conservation diving role, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Temporary marine conservation divers often work in physically demanding conditions, including variable weather, strong currents, and extended periods underwater. Additionally, adapting quickly to new team dynamics and protocols is essential, as projects may be fast-paced and involve international colleagues. Preparing by maintaining physical fitness, acquiring advanced diving certifications, and familiarizing yourself with basic marine research methods can help you succeed. Flexibility and a positive attitude toward teamwork are also key to thriving in this role.

What is the difference between Temporary Marine Conservation Diving vs Marine Biologist?

AspectTemporary Marine Conservation DivingMarine Biologist
CertificationsOpen Water Diver, specialized conservation diving certificationsDegree in Marine Biology or related field, research permits
Work EnvironmentUnderwater, field sites, conservation projectsLaboratories, field research, academic settings
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental NGOs, conservation organizations, dive operatorsUniversities, research institutes, government agencies

Temporary Marine Conservation Divers focus on underwater conservation tasks, often requiring diving certifications and fieldwork. Marine Biologists conduct research, analyze marine ecosystems, and may work in labs or on research vessels. While both roles contribute to marine conservation, their work environments and qualifications differ significantly.

More about Temporary Marine Conservation Diving jobs

What cities are hiring for Temporary Marine Conservation Diving jobs?

Cities with the most Temporary Marine Conservation Diving job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Conservation Diving jobs?

The most popular types of Marine Conservation Diving jobs are:

What states have the most Temporary Marine Conservation Diving jobs?

States with the most job openings for Temporary Marine Conservation Diving jobs include:

Infographic showing various Temporary Marine Conservation Diving 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 $36,939 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Wild Animal Keeper, Oceans, Wonders: Shark!

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY • On-site

$48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Wildlife Conservation Society rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 37 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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