Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of global environmental awareness, the focus on Marine Environmental Protection Specialists has never been greater.

As our seas continue to face numerous threats, the demand for skilled experts who can conserve, restore, and manage our marine ecosystems escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of marine environmental protection,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive Marine Environmental Protection Specialist job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Environmental Protection Specialists apply their knowledge of environmental science and marine biology to protect and preserve aquatic ecosystems.

They carry out a variety of tasks to monitor and improve the health of marine environments.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research and investigations to assess the impact of human activities and natural phenomena on marine environments
• Developing, implementing and monitoring environmental protection plans for marine ecosystems
• Collecting and analyzing marine samples to monitor pollution levels and identify harmful organisms or substances
• Collaborating with government agencies, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and enforce environmental policies and regulations
• Providing advice and guidance on marine environmental protection issues to policymakers, the public, and other interested parties
• Preparing and delivering reports, presentations, and other communication materials to disseminate research findings and advocate for marine environmental protection
• Participating in emergency response efforts for marine environmental disasters such as oil spills or harmful algal blooms
• Staying up-to-date with the latest scientific research, technologies, and regulatory developments in the field of marine environmental protection
• Promoting public awareness and education about marine environmental protection issues

 

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated Marine Environmental Protection Specialist to join our team.

Your primary responsibilities will include monitoring and assessing the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems, developing and implementing strategies to mitigate such impacts, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and standards.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of marine biology, environmental science, and regulatory policies, as well as excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluating the impact of human activities on marine environments and ecosystems.
• Developing, implementing, and monitoring environmental protection plans and strategies.
• Ensuring compliance with environmental laws, regulations, and standards.
• Collaborating with researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable practices.
• Conducting research and field investigations, and preparing detailed reports and presentations.
• Providing expert advice and guidance on marine environmental protection issues.
• Promoting public awareness and education about marine environmental protection.
• Staying up-to-date with the latest research, technologies, and trends in marine environmental protection.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist or in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of marine biology, environmental science, and regulatory policies.
• Excellent research, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.
• Proficient in using software tools for data collection and analysis.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field. A Master’s degree or higher is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities
• Travel opportunities for field investigations and conferences

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Environmental Protection Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent fieldwork. Some travel may be required for field investigations and conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Environmental Protection or the Head of the Marine Department.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Do?

Marine Environmental Protection Specialists typically work for government agencies, environmental consultancies, non-profit organizations, or research institutions.

They can also work as self-employed individuals or consultants.

These professionals are responsible for protecting and conserving marine environments, including oceans, seas, coastal areas, and marine wildlife.

They play a key role in monitoring, assessing, and managing the impacts of human activities and climate change on these environments.

Their tasks often include conducting fieldwork and research to collect data, analyzing samples in the lab, and interpreting results to understand the condition of marine environments.

They use this information to identify threats, assess risks, and develop strategies to prevent or mitigate environmental damage.

Marine Environmental Protection Specialists also work on policy-making, contributing to the development of regulations and guidelines to control pollution, manage resources, and protect marine biodiversity.

They may collaborate with different stakeholders, such as governmental bodies, local communities, and industries.

In addition, they often participate in environmental education and advocacy, raising public awareness about the importance of marine conservation and promoting sustainable practices.

Ultimately, the role of a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist is to ensure the health, sustainability, and resilience of marine ecosystems for future generations.

 

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Marine Environmental Protection Specialist should have qualifications and skills that align with the unique challenges of the role, such as:

• An in-depth understanding of marine biology, ecology, and environmental science to assess and monitor marine environments effectively.
• Excellent research and analytical skills to study and interpret data about marine environments, including pollution levels, species diversity, and ecological health.
• Problem-solving skills to identify potential threats to marine ecosystems and develop effective strategies to mitigate these issues.
• Strong communication and presentation skills to effectively share research findings and proposals with stakeholders, colleagues, policy makers, and the public.
• Proficiency with scientific equipment and technology used in marine environmental research and monitoring.
• Familiarity with environmental laws and regulations relevant to marine ecosystems, and the ability to apply this knowledge in an advisory capacity.
• A commitment to ongoing learning and staying updated on the latest research, conservation strategies, and environmental policies related to marine ecosystems.
• Fieldwork abilities, including the physical stamina and comfort level needed to conduct research and surveys in various marine conditions and climates.

 

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Marine Environmental Protection Specialists typically have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field like marine biology, oceanography, or environmental science, and may have gained practical experience through an internship, research project, or part-time role.

These candidates often have 1 to 2 years of experience working in marine conservation, research, or marine policy roles.

Their practical experience may involve field work, data analysis, policy development or education and outreach.

Those with more than 3 years of experience have usually developed their technical skills and knowledge in marine environmental protection.

They likely have hands-on experience with environmental impact assessments, habitat conservation planning, and regulatory compliance.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have leadership experience, such as managing a team, overseeing projects, or developing and implementing environmental policies or strategies.

They may have experience in liaising with government agencies, NGOs, or community stakeholders and may be ready for a senior or management position.

In addition to experience, a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist should also have strong communication, problem-solving and analytical skills, and a deep understanding of marine ecosystems and the various factors impacting them.

 

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Marine Environmental Protection Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, environmental science, or a related field.

This education provides the specialist with a thorough understanding of marine ecosystems, pollution control, and conservation strategies.

Coursework may include marine ecology, oceanography, environmental law, and chemistry.

Many roles also require a master’s degree in a related field, such as marine environmental management or environmental policy.

These advanced degrees often focus on specific aspects of marine protection, such as policy development, project management, or research methods.

In addition to formal education, Marine Environmental Protection Specialists should have a strong understanding of national and international environmental regulations and policies.

This knowledge can be gained through coursework, internships, or work experience.

Certification in environmental impact assessment, environmental auditing, or similar areas may also be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate a specialist’s expertise in assessing and mitigating environmental risks.

Continuing education is crucial in this role due to the rapidly changing nature of environmental science and policy.

Therefore, many professionals in this field engage in ongoing professional development through conferences, workshops, and courses.

 

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Salary Expectations

A Marine Environmental Protection Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $72,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, education, location, and the size of the employing organization.

 

Marine Environmental Protection Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist need?

Marine Environmental Protection Specialists should have strong analytical skills, enabling them to assess data and environmental conditions effectively.

Knowledge of marine biology and ecology is also essential, as well as understanding international environmental laws and regulations.

Good communication skills are also important to convey technical information to non-specialists and collaborate with stakeholders.

 

Do Marine Environmental Protection Specialists need a degree?

Yes, a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or Ecology.

Higher positions may require a Master’s degree or Ph.D. Some roles may also require specific certifications or licenses, depending on the scope of the job and jurisdiction.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist resume?

You should look for relevant educational qualifications and any additional certifications related to marine biology or environmental protection.

In addition, prior experience in environmental conservation, research, project management, and policy development would be advantageous.

Skills such as data analysis, proficiency in environmental software, and knowledge of environmental laws and regulations are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Environmental Protection Specialist?

A good Marine Environmental Protection Specialist is passionate about marine conservation and has a deep understanding of marine ecosystems.

They are observant, detail-oriented, and skilled at problem-solving.

This role often involves working with different stakeholders, so good communication and collaboration skills are important.

They should also be adaptable and resilient, as fieldwork can involve challenging conditions.

 

Is it difficult to hire Marine Environmental Protection Specialists?

Hiring for this role can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the work and the level of education and experience required.

Furthermore, the job may entail fieldwork in various locations and climates, which may not appeal to all candidates.

Therefore, it’s important to offer competitive benefits and highlight the role’s impact on marine conservation to attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the depths of what it truly means to be a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist.

Surprise!

It’s not just about conducting marine inspections.

It’s about safeguarding our invaluable marine ecosystems, one regulation at a time.

With our comprehensive Marine Environmental Protection Specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re all prepared to plunge in.

Why limit yourself there?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every marine regulation serves a crucial role in the larger ecosystem.

Let’s preserve our oceans. Together.

How to Become a Marine Environmental Protection Specialist (Complete Guide)

In-Demand and On the Rise: Careers Shaping the Future of Work

The Unfavored Frontier: The Most Hated Jobs in the Trade

The Job Trend Tidal Wave: Careers Sweeping the Market

Flexible Futures: Careers That Adapt to Your Lifestyle