Notes

(Suggested: Marine Internships)

Opportunities may also be found through a search of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) job site which lists available jobs throughout the U.S.
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___Marine Biologist___

High School Courses: Marine Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Biochemistry, and Organic Chemistry

Entry level positions begin around $40,000 per year, while those with advanced degrees may earn over $100,000 per year.

Suggested: Get open water diving certified and a boat operator's license

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the national average salary for all zoologists and wildlife biologists is $64,650 per year.

Common duties:

-Observing animals, plants and microorganisms in the ocean
-Performing research experiments in a laboratory using special equipment
-Gathering samples of water, plants and microorganisms for research in a laboratory
-Conducting research on different species of marine animals and their ecosystems
-Specializing in a particular area of marine biology, such as ichthyology, marine biotechnology or marine ecology
-Learning about geological oceanography to understand different marine environments
-Finding new ways to promote marine preservation and environmental sustainability
-Providing medical care to sick or injured marine animals
-Studying populations of fish to track their migration and reproductive patterns
-Writing scientific reports and papers to share their findings with the public
-Compiling research data from other scientists in subcategories of marine biology
-Giving talks and presentations at museums and educational institutions to educate the public about marine life

Professional groups marine biologists often join:
-American Association for the Advancement of Science
-American Fisheries Society
-Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography
-Marine Technology Society
-National Association of Marine Laboratories
-The Oceanography Society

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___Marine Mammal Trainer___

Marine mammal trainer wages can vary widely depending on the duties of each specific job, but an average range of $30,000 to $40,000 per year is possible.

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___Aquarist___

-Generally, requires a four-year degree

Suggested: Scuba certification

Experienced aquarists can expect to earn $40,000 to $50,000 per year, with the starting salary for new aquarists being about half of that amount.

Common duties:
take care of marine animals kept in the collections of aquariums, zoos, marine parks, and research facilities. They are responsible for all aspects of basic care as well as maintaining proper water quality.