How much does a Marine Biologist make in the United States?
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The average Marine Biologist salary in the United States is $90,075 as of January 01, 2026. The range for our most popular Marine Biologist positions (listed below) typically falls between $36,532 and $143,617. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Marine Biologist's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
| Biologist II | $70,046 | $33.68 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
| Biologist III | $86,803 | $41.73 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
| Biologist I | $59,587 | $28.65 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
| Biologist IV | $120,812 | $58.08 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
| Biologist V | $130,910 | $62.94 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
| Marine Cargo Inspector | $40,582 | $19.51 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
| Embryologist | $104,704 | $50.34 | United States | January 01, 2026 |
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Studies the basic principles of plant and animal life and the effects of varying environmental and physical conditions such as radioactivity or pollution. Studies reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites, bacteria, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. View Biologist II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Intermediate Biologist, Biologist II
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Studies the basic principles of plant and animal life and the effects of varying environmental and physical conditions such as radioactivity or pollution. Studies reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites, bacteria, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Requires a master's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 4 to 7 years of related experience. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. View Biologist III SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Senior Biologist, Biologist III
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Studies the basic principles of plant and animal life and the effects of varying environmental and physical conditions such as radioactivity or pollution. Studies reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites, bacteria, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. View Biologist I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Entry Biologist, Biologist I
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Studies the basic principles of plant and animal life and the effects of varying environmental and physical conditions such as radioactivity or pollution. Studies reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites, bacteria, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Requires a master's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a manager. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience. View Biologist IV SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Specialist Biologist, Biologist IV
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Studies the basic principles of plant and animal life and the effects of varying environmental and physical conditions such as radioactivity or pollution. Studies reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites, bacteria, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Requires a master's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a manager. Works autonomously. Goals are generally communicated in "solution" or project goal terms. May provide a leadership role for the work group through knowledge in the area of specialization. Works on advanced, complex technical projects or business issues requiring state of the art technical or industry knowledge. Typically requires 10+ years of related experience. View Biologist V SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Expert Biologist, Biologist V
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Inspects cargoes of seagoing vessels to certify compliance with national and international health and safety regulations in cargo handling and stowage. May require an associate's degree with 2-4 years of experience in the field. Is familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager. View Marine Cargo Inspector SalaryCategory : Transportation and Warehousing
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Responsible for the creation, cultivation, and selection of embryos for transfer or freezing. Monitors the development of embryos in the laboratory, ensuring optimal conditions for growth and viability. May also be involved in research and development of new reproductive technologies and techniques. Typically requires a master's degree in reproductive science. Typically reports to a manager. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Typically requires 4-7 years of related experience. View Embryologist SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Clinical Embryologist, Reproductive Biologist, Embryologist