Marine Biologist - Pay and progression
Kaimātai Koiora Moana
Pay
Pay for marine biologists depends on the type of work they do, and their experience.
Pay for marine biologists working at universities
- Lecturers/postdoctoral teaching fellows usually earn between $67,000 and $80,000 a year.
- Senior lecturers may earn $86,000 to $100,000.
- Associate professors usually earn $112,000 to $124,000.
- Professors could earn $130,000 to $158,000.
Pay for marine biologists working at research institutions
Marine biologists who work at research institutions tend to earn slightly less than those at universities.
- At the technician level (with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree), you could start at $35,000 a year, moving up to about $50,000.
- Postdoctoral fellows earn between $50,000 and $55,000 a year. Pay is fixed for the term of the fellowship (usually two to three years).
Pay for permanent scientist positions depends on qualifications and experience.
- With a PhD (but without postdoctoral experience) you can expect a starting salary between $50,000 and $55,000 a year.
- With a PhD and some postdoctoral or work experience, you could earn $60,000 to 80,000.
- With several years' experience and increased performance and responsibility, pay could rise to about $100,000.
Career Progression
Marine biologists with a Bachelor's degree typically start work at the technician level. Technicians may progress into research scientist positions after getting a Masters or PhD in the relevant science area.
Once you have a PhD, you can apply for a postdoctoral fellowship at research organisations or universities. You may need to do two or three postdoctoral fellowships (usually lasting two or three years each) before getting a permanent scientist position.
After about 15 years’ experience, marine biologists can progress into senior research scientist, team leader or management roles.
Updated
October 2009
