How Much Do Marine Biologists Make Per Hour?
As a field, marine biology is often filled with wonder and excitement. Marine biologists have the opportunity to study and discover new species, work underwater, and contribute to a better understanding of our world’s oceans. But while the work may be engaging, many people are concerned about the compensation package of marine biologists. Just how much do they earn per hour?
****Answering the Question
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for marine biologists in the United States is $96,140. This data is based on a small sample size, with the BLS reporting only approximately 1,200 individuals employed in this field as of May 2021.
To calculate the average hourly wage, we must divide the median annual salary by the number of work hours in a year, assuming a standard full-time schedule of 2,080 hours (40 hours/week x 52 weeks/year).
> Median Hourly Wage Calculations
- Median Annual Salary: $96,140
- Work Hours per Year: 2,080
- Median Hourly Wage: approximately $46.19*
Keep in mind that hourly wages may vary depending on factors such as experience, education, specific job roles, and institutional settings. Let’s dive deeper into the pay ranges for marine biologists to better understand their income potential.
< Factors Affecting Hourly Wages
- Education: Holders of a Master’s degree in marine biology can typically expect higher salaries than those with a Bachelor’s degree.
- Industry: Marine biologists employed in government agencies, educational institutions, or research facilities tend to earn more than those in private companies, non-profit organizations, or freelance positions.
- Experience: Senior-level biologists with extensive experience are often paid more than recent graduates or entry-level marine biologists.
- Job Role: Principal investigators, research scientists, and senior researchers usually receive higher salaries than assistants, technicians, or research coordinators.
< Table of Average Hourly Wages by Job Role and Level of Experience
| Job Role | Bachelor’s Degree (entry-level) | Master’s Degree (mid-career) | Postdoctoral Research (advanced) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Assistant | $25-$30/hr | $35-$40/hr | $45-$55/hr |
| Research Associate | $30-$38/hr | $45-$55/hr | $65-$75/hr |
| Senior Research Scientist | – | $60-$80/hr | $90-$100/hr |
| University Professor | – | $70-$90/hr | $100-$120/hr |
< Noteworthy Salary Ranges for Certain Positions
- Science Teacher: $30,000 – $70,000 per year
- Marine Biologist in Government Agency: $40,000 – $90,000 per year
- Research and Development Manager: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
< Conclusion
Determining the exact hourly wage of marine biologists is somewhat complex due to factors affecting pay. However, utilizing the median annual salary data from the BLS, we can estimate an hourly wage of approximately $46.19. More extensive analysis reveals that job role, level of experience, education, and industry sector significantly impact hourly wages in this field.
By grasping these factors, professionals interested in pursuing a marine biology career can better expect and prepare for the average hourly wages associated with certain roles and levels of seniority.
