Marine and Freshwater
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 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
involve a wide range of animal care, conservation and other positions.
Most positions require at least a four-year degree in biology, zoology,
or a related field, and practical knowledge and hands-on experience.
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.
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 study
and provide 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 include: 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,etc.
Other Aquarium careers
include administration staff, such as :
Assistant Director, Personnel Director, Finance Director and general
office staff, veterinary team, volunteer co-ordinator, fundraising
director, gift shop/facilities manager.
African
Conservation Experience 'Work
alongside experienced marine biologists in a small research team.
Trained on marine research techniques, you will acquire the skills
needed to collect environmental data on a number of cetacean species.
Ideal if you have a passion for the marine environment and are hoping
to broaden your knowledge of marine conservation and research'
Ichthyology