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Volunteer Marine Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marine Science Educator

Sausalito, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $31.49/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Marine Science Educator Location of Position: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California Reports to ... Ability to practice self-awareness and respect while engaging with staff, volunteers, training ...

Marine Science Educator

Sausalito, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $31.49/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Marine Science Educator Location of Position: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California Reports to ... Ability to practice self-awareness and respect while engaging with staff, volunteers, training ...

Marine Science Educator

Sausalito, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $31.49/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Marine Science Educator Location of Position: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California Reports to ... Ability to practice self-awareness and respect while engaging with staff, volunteers, training ...

Seasonal Marine Field Worker

Cape May, NJ ยท On-site

$15.92 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our emphasis is on both the fundamental sciences and the social and human dimensions. We offer 21 ... Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred ...

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable ... marine science or 6 semester hours in oceanography; applicants who qualify on the basis of other ...

SCIENTIST

Newport, RI ยท On-site

$101K/yr

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable ... marine science or 6 semester hours in oceanography; applicants who qualify on the basis of other ...

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Volunteer Marine Science information

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How much do volunteer marine science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer marine science in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a volunteer marine scientist do?

As a volunteer in marine science, you may participate in a range of activities, including assisting with fieldwork such as collecting water or biological samples, conducting beach or underwater surveys, and recording environmental data. You might also help with laboratory analysis, data entry, and public education or outreach programs. The specific tasks depend on the organization's focus, but volunteers often work alongside marine biologists and researchers, gaining hands-on experience and contributing to conservation or research efforts. Collaboration and adaptability are important, as priorities can shift based on project needs or weather conditions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a volunteer marine scientist?

To thrive as a Volunteer Marine Science Assistant, you generally need a background in biology or environmental science, strong observational skills, and a willingness to learn. Familiarity with field sampling techniques, data collection tools, and sometimes SCUBA certification are often required. Effective teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills help volunteers contribute to research and outreach efforts. These skills are essential for supporting scientific projects, ensuring safety, and fostering positive community and research outcomes.

What is the difference between Volunteer Marine Science vs Marine Biologist?

AspectVolunteer Marine ScienceMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often no formal degree requiredBachelor's degree in Marine Biology or related field; advanced degrees preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research projects, conservation sites, aquariumsResearch labs, universities, field sites, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, research organizations, conservation projectsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer opportunities in marine scienceCareer in marine biology, research roles

Volunteer Marine Science roles typically involve assisting with research and conservation efforts without requiring advanced degrees, focusing on hands-on fieldwork. Marine Biologists usually hold higher education credentials and conduct in-depth research, often in academic or governmental settings. Both roles contribute to marine science but differ in qualifications and responsibilities.

What is a volunteer marine scientist?

Volunteer Marine Scientists are individuals who offer their time and skills, often without pay, to support marine research, conservation, and education projects. They may assist with fieldwork, data collection, laboratory analysis, public outreach, and monitoring marine ecosystems. Volunteers can work with universities, research institutions, non-profits, or government agencies, contributing to the understanding and protection of marine environments. This role provides hands-on experience and is ideal for those passionate about ocean conservation and science. While prior experience can be helpful, many organizations offer training for new volunteers.

What cities are hiring for Volunteer Marine Science jobs?

Cities with the most Volunteer Marine Science job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Science jobs?

The most popular types of Marine Science jobs are:

What states have the most Volunteer Marine Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Volunteer Marine Science jobs include:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Marine Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Marine Science Educator

Marine Mammal Center

Sausalito, CA โ€ข On-site

$28 - $31.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

We're Hiring! Marine Science Educator
Location of Position: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California
Reports to: Middle School Programs Manager
Position Classification & Expected Hours of Work, and Travel:
  • This is a full-time position.
  • Working five consecutive days per week.
  • Regular onsite work is required.
  • Consistent weekend work is required.
  • The work schedule is generally eight hours per day, Monday through Friday, however, days and hours vary depending on the schedule for the day and according to the needs of the Center.
  • Evening and Holiday work may be required as job duties demand.
  • Some local travel may be required as job duties demand.

Compensation Range: $28.00 - $31.49 / hour
Bilingual Pay: Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is required for this position. This position is eligible for a 5% bilingual differential, paid in addition to the employee's regular base rate for all hours worked.
Benefits:
  • Holidays, Sick Time, Vacation
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Life Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Employee Assistance Program

Job Summary:
The Marine Science Educator serves a key role in the delivery of school tours and youth programs and is instrumental in the development and preparation of either the high school programs or middle school programs. With direction from their supervisor and collaboration with a variety of team members, this role will support the growth of the program and department to meet our mission outcomes by providing a high-quality and lasting education experience.
Essential Functions:
Program Implementation: 75%
  • Delivers and engages marine science content to ages 4th grade to adult while providing excellent customer service by presenting marine science curriculum through best practices all while providing a safe and positive learning environment.
  • Continually cross-trains on and provides support to all programs offered to school and youth audiences, including docent coverage and guided tours as needed.
  • Creates and maintains relationships with teams across the Center as well as a variety of stakeholders and community members, including but not limited to teachers and other non-profit and/or partner organizations.
  • Delivers program in Spanish, providing translation and interpretation as needed.
  • Organize logistical aspects including, but not limited to, scheduling activities, gathering supplies, setting up learning spaces, gathering all necessary paperwork for participants, and tracking and recording data.
  • Facilitate check-in and check-out procedures for assigned programs.
  • Address inquiries and provide timely and helpful responses during programs.
  • Follow safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure the well-being of education participants, volunteers, and staff.
  • Communicate incidents, altercations, or other work-related issues effectively with the management.

Program Development: 20%
  • Supports development of the program including new content, media, and/or technology, as well as new program creation and implementation.
  • Develops program in Spanish, providing translation and bilingual resources as needed.
  • Maintains up to date knowledge of marine mammal science, ocean conservation, and climate change science through educational training, Center speaker events, and professional development opportunities.

Other Duties as Assigned: 5%
  • Represent and promote the Center through donor cultivation participation in partnership with the department as opportunities arise.
  • Perform special projects and research as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility:
None
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Passion for marine and environmental conservation and the mission of The Marine Mammal Center.
  • Knowledge of Marine Science and Ocean Literacy Principles.
  • A desire for continual learning.
  • Ability to provide exceptional customer service to a variety of audiences which includes frequent interactions with visitors and volunteers.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions and priorities as set by management.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and maintain open communication in a team environment.
  • Ability to adapt and learn from change, challenges, and feedback.
  • Basic organizational skills including attention to detail, multi-tasking, and time-management.
  • Skills using or ability to learn Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Word) and videoconference technology (Slack, Teams, Zoom).
  • Skills using or ability to learn Eventbrite or an alternate program registration software/system.
  • Skills using Canva or other graphic design platforms are highly desirable.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, which may include staff, volunteers, training participants, and members of the public.
  • Ability to practice self-awareness and respect while engaging with staff, volunteers, training participants, and members of the public.
  • Willingness to support and participate in the Center's diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
  • Ability to understand, speak, read, and write in Spanish.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Ability to obtain clearance via livescan fingerprinting for U.S. Department of Justice to work directly with students.
  • Ability to obtain a TB test when required and any other medical examinations or vaccinations as required by state or federal law to work directly with students.
  • Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain standards of insurability. (Must be 21+ years old as frequently driving company vehicles is required for this position.)
  • Ability to understand, speak, read, and write in Spanish is required.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
  • This position operates in a professional office and hospital environment both indoors and outdoors with access to other parts of the facilities via outdoor pathways.
  • Ability to stand/walk up to 3 hours without a break.
  • Ability to walk/cover up to 5 miles during a shift on a frequent basis.
  • Ability to sit/stand/walk for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to climb stairs and move around the facility for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to drive/operate a vehicle.
  • Routinely work outdoors in weather conditions and elements.
  • Routinely uses standard office equipment requiring repetitive motion in tasks.
  • Ability to work at a desk for extended periods of time using a computer.
  • Ability to work in an open cubicle office space environment with many distractions.
  • Limited exposure to allergens and zoonotic diseases.
  • Involves strong smells associated with dead animals (carcasses) and the care of live animals.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint.
OUR MISSION
The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education.
ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER
The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education.
For more information, please visit our "About Us" page at www.marinemammalcenter.org
To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume and provide a brief description about how your experience aligns with the role.
Note that applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
In your cover letter, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example - she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc).
We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. The Center is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know.
Salary Description
$28.00 - $31.49 per hour