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Marine Careers
Marine Biologist Marine and Freshwater Biologists: marine biologists work mainly with sea plants and animals. Freshwater biologists work on lakes and rivers or for water companies and environmental agencies researching areas such as pollution concerns and depleted fish stocks resulting from over fishing. Marine Rescue Some charitable organisations work to rescue and rehabilitate stranded, sick or injured marine animals – such as dolphin rescue. Their work is particularly important during natural disasters and organisations can require extra help at these times. Careers in Aquariums A wide range of animal care, conservation, and other positions are available at aquariums. Most positions require at least a four-year degree in biology, zoology, or a related field, and practical knowledge and hands-on experience. Aquarist Aquarist: is a popular hands-on, entry level career based in an aquarium environment. It involves having responsibility for the freshwater and marine aquatic systems. The work requires a lot of cleaning as well as feeding, monitoring animal health and water quality, setting up and maintaining new exhibits, and observing the behaviour of wild animals in the aquarium to ensure that they are living in as close to natural environment as possible. Marine Aquarium Society provides support and education to amateur and professional aquarists. Aquarium Supervisor < is responsible for managing the aquarist team and overseeing the details of daily activities. This work involves recruiting and training new employees and ensuring the work is carried out efficiently so that the animals are well cared for and that high standards of cleanliness are maintained. Curator is responsible for designing and promoting exhibits, overseeing the daily duties of curatorial staff, training of aquarist staff and keeping accurate records. A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in biology or a related field is required, as well as management training and experience of managing a team. A scuba diving qualification, thorough knowledge of local marine life and experience in caring for marine animals is essential. Naturalists are educational specialists, their work involves teach aquarium visitors about marine science and ocean conservation. Naturists study saltwater plants and animals and how they relate to their environment. Herpetologists A herpetologist studies and provides information about reptiles and amphibians including snakes, lizards, frogs, alligators, turtles and other reptilian and amphibious creatures. The work involves conducting research, observing general behaviour, conducting food supply studies and sometimes even searching for new species. Marine Mammal Trainers are sometimes referred to as dolphin trainers and are responsible for training and caring for dolphins, whales, seals, sea lions, walruses and other marine mammals using a training system of positive reinforcement. Behaviours are taught to help educate and entertain people through shows, demonstrations and interactive programs. Water Quality Technicians are responsible for monitoring aquarium water and ensuring high standards are maintained. Technicians receive training in using laboratory equipment to monitor aquarium water for dissolved oxygen levels, ammonia levels, nitrate levels, temperature, and salinity. They work with aquarist staff to ensure that the water composition is both healthy and safe for aquarium animals. Other marine related careers marine educator, science writer, filmmaker, photographer, ecotourism guide, park ranger, beach superintendent, maritime or environmental lawyer, coastal or ocean policy experts, aquavet (veterinarians that specialize in marine or aquatic animals), economist, marine archaeologist, marine historian, fundraiser or spokesperson, aquaculturist, manager of an agency specializing in marine or freshwater issues, marina manager, ship's captain or mate, environmental planner, manager of a land conservation organization or land trust, botanist, computer specialist with a marine or environmental organization, ecologist, hatchery specialist, landscape or maritime architect, and so on. Other aquarium careers Administration staff including, Assistant Director, Personnel Director, Finance Director and general office staffVeterinary team, volunteer co-ordinator, fundraising director, gift shop/facilities manager
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