Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the arena of marine conservation, the role of marine wildlife veterinarians has never been more critical.

As our oceans continue to face unprecedented challenges, there is a growing demand for skilled individuals who can diagnose, treat, and protect our marine life.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a marine wildlife veterinarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of marine veterinary medicine,

You’ve navigated to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable marine wildlife veterinarian job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s plunge right into it.

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Wildlife Veterinarians have a specific focus on the health and well-being of marine animals.

They use their expertise in veterinary medicine and marine biology to diagnose and treat a variety of species in their natural habitat and captivity.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Perform regular health check-ups on marine animals, including physical examination and testing
• Diagnose illnesses and injuries, and develop treatment plans
• Conduct surgeries on marine animals when necessary
• Administer vaccinations and medications
• Monitor the recovery of marine animals after treatment or surgery
• Document and maintain accurate medical records for each animal
• Coordinate with marine biologists, aquarists, and other marine professionals to ensure the health and safety of marine animals
• Conduct research to learn more about diseases and conditions affecting marine animals
• Educate the public and other professionals on the care and conservation of marine wildlife
• Respond to marine animal rescue and rehabilitation needs

 

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Marine Wildlife Veterinarian to diagnose, treat, and research diseases that afflict marine animals.

Your duties will include performing surgeries, prescribing medication, conducting research, and improving the overall health of marine animals.

Our ideal candidate has significant experience working with marine animals, a deep understanding of marine biology, and the commitment to marine wildlife conservation.

You should be able to conduct complex surgical procedures, work under pressure, and communicate effectively with a team.

 

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and treat diseases in marine animals
• Perform surgical procedures on marine animals
• Conduct research to improve marine animal health
• Develop and implement marine animal health programs
• Collaborate with marine biologists, oceanographers, and other relevant professionals
• Advocate for marine wildlife conservation
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare laws and regulations
• Train and supervise veterinary interns and assistants
• Write reports on health statuses, diseases, and treatments of marine animals
• Provide emergency care to marine animals when necessary

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent
• License to practice veterinary medicine
• Experience working with marine animals
• Knowledge of marine biology and aquatic medicine
• Strong surgical skills
• Ability to work under pressure and handle emergency situations
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Commitment to marine wildlife conservation

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to work with diverse marine wildlife

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Wildlife Veterinarian
• Work Environment: This role may require working in various environments, including marine parks, aquariums, marine research centers, and sometimes in the wild.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Veterinarian or Marine Park Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 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 at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of 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 Wildlife Veterinarian Do?

Marine Wildlife Veterinarians specialize in the medical treatment of marine animals, which may include sea turtles, dolphins, whales, seals, and various fish species.

They work for various organizations including aquariums, marine rescue centers, research facilities, or wildlife conservation organizations.

Their primary role involves diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries in marine animals, performing surgeries, and overseeing the rehabilitation of rescued or injured marine wildlife.

They utilize specific medical equipment and techniques that are suitable for marine animals.

These veterinarians also participate in research studies related to marine wildlife health, disease, and conservation.

They collect and analyze data about marine wildlife diseases, and can contribute to scientific knowledge about the health and wellness of marine species.

Marine Wildlife Veterinarians often collaborate with other marine professionals such as marine biologists and ecologists, to ensure the overall health and conservation of marine ecosystems.

Additionally, they educate the public and raise awareness about the importance of marine wildlife health and conservation, the threats faced by marine species, and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems.

 

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Qualifications and Skills

A competent marine wildlife veterinarian requires a unique blend of skills and qualifications, including:

• Advanced understanding of marine biology and aquatic diseases to diagnose and treat a wide range of marine wildlife species.
• Practical veterinary skills to perform surgeries, administer medications, and conduct various medical procedures on marine wildlife.
• Problem-solving abilities to swiftly identify and rectify health-related issues affecting marine wildlife.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively explain the condition and treatment plan of the animals to other professionals and stakeholders.
• Research skills to contribute to the wider scientific understanding of marine wildlife diseases and their treatment.
• Physical stamina and agility to perform potentially strenuous and precise treatments on marine wildlife, often under challenging conditions.
• Ability to work well as part of a multi-disciplinary team, including marine biologists, conservationists, and other veterinarians.
• Compassion for animals and a commitment to the ethical and humane treatment of marine wildlife.

 

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Experience Requirements

To become a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian, the first step is to obtain a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution, which usually requires about eight years of education after high school.

This role requires extensive knowledge and understanding of marine biology, so relevant coursework, or even a degree in marine biology, is highly beneficial.

A year or more of specialized training or residency in aquatic animal health is generally required to gain the necessary experience to effectively care for marine wildlife.

After acquiring a DVM degree, candidates usually complete an internship or residency, often at a marine park, aquarium, or a similar facility, to gain hands-on experience with marine animals.

This can typically last between 1 to 3 years, depending on the complexity of the role and the type of marine animals.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often specialize in a particular type of marine animal or a specific area of marine veterinary medicine.

They may also have experience managing and leading teams, and may be ready for a leadership role within a marine wildlife facility.

Those with more than 5 years of experience generally have significant clinical experience and may have contributed to research in the field, published papers, or presented at professional conferences.

At this level, candidates may be considered for senior roles or positions of authority within marine wildlife veterinary medicine, such as a director of marine health.

Lastly, continuous education and training are vital in this field due to the constant evolution of marine veterinary medicine and the need for up-to-date knowledge about various marine wildlife species and their associated diseases.

 

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college, which typically involves 4 years of study after obtaining an undergraduate degree.

While an undergraduate degree in a field such as biology, animal science, or zoology is generally preferred, applicants to veterinary colleges need to have completed coursework in the sciences, including biology, chemistry, and physics.

The DVM program includes coursework and practical experience in normal animal anatomy and physiology, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases.

Aspiring Marine Wildlife Veterinarians should also focus on courses related to marine biology and aquatic animals to gain specific knowledge about marine wildlife.

Upon graduation, veterinarians must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) to become licensed.

Most states also require a state-specific exam that covers state laws and regulations.

Veterinarians interested in marine wildlife often complete additional training, such as internships or residencies, at aquariums, marine rehabilitation centers, or other facilities that provide care to marine wildlife.

Certification in aquatic animal medicine is also available from the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, which can be beneficial in demonstrating the veterinarian’s expertise in treating marine wildlife.

Continuing education to stay informed about advancements in the field is often required and is essential for maintaining the highest standards of care in this rapidly evolving field.

 

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Salary Expectations

A Marine Wildlife Veterinarian earns an average salary of $93,830 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on level of experience, location, specialization, and the employing organization.

It is worth noting that working with marine wildlife may also involve additional benefits such as research grants and travel opportunities.

 

Marine Wildlife Veterinarian Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian need?

Marine Wildlife Veterinarians require a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution.

After obtaining a DVM, they typically undertake additional training in marine biology, wildlife biology, and/or aquatic medicine.

A license to practice veterinary medicine is also required.

 

What are the daily duties of a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian?

On a typical day, a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian may conduct routine health checks on marine animals, treat sick or injured animals, and provide preventative healthcare such as vaccinations.

They may also be involved in research projects, contribute to conservation efforts, and educate the public about marine wildlife health.

Their work may require them to work in a variety of settings, from aquariums and marine parks to wildlife rehabilitation centers and research facilities.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Wildlife Veterinarian?

A good Marine Wildlife Veterinarian is deeply compassionate towards animals and has a keen interest in marine biology.

They have strong diagnostic and surgical skills, as well as the ability to make quick decisions in emergency situations.

Excellent communication skills are also important, as they often need to liaise with conservation teams, other veterinarians, and the public.

 

What is the work environment like for a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian?

The work environment of a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian can be quite varied and challenging.

They may work in settings ranging from aquariums to wildlife rehabilitation centers, and their patients can range from small sea creatures to large marine mammals.

Their work often involves outdoor fieldwork, which can be physically demanding and may require travel.

As marine animals can become sick or injured at any time, they may also need to work irregular hours.

 

Is it difficult to become a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian?

Becoming a Marine Wildlife Veterinarian is a long and competitive process.

It requires many years of education and specialized training.

Positions in this field can be competitive due to the limited number of jobs available.

However, for those with a passion for marine wildlife and a commitment to their health and well-being, the rewards can be significant.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve delved into the captivating world of a marine wildlife veterinarian.

Interesting, isn’t it?

It’s not just about treating sick animals.

It’s about safeguarding our oceanic biodiversity, one marine life at a time.

With our comprehensive marine wildlife veterinarian job description template and real-life instances, you’re now ready to dive into this exciting field.

But why just float on the surface?

Submerge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next wave towards meticulously crafted job listings or finessing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every marine life saved contributes to the larger oceanic ecosystem.

Let’s protect this marine world. Together.

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