Are you one of those people who loves spending time in the water, near the ocean's floor, snorkeling and experiencing the beauty of marine life? Do you find aquatic life more fascinating than life on dry land? If you have a love of marine life and the ocean and a genuine interest in biology and technology, you may want to combine your interests and consider a career as a marine life technician.
Marine life technicians generally assist marine biologists perform their objective, which is to study and make scientific use of marine life that inhabits the ocean waters. In this capacity, the marine life tech aids in utilizing marine resources to help find answers to some of world's biggest problems like climate control, new medicines, energy sources, and food.
These techs do not just deal with the physical properties of the sea. They complete other duties that make use of additional skill sets as well as assist marine biologists in laboratories. They conduct experiments that involve ocean life and the environmental conditions that affect it. Laboratory work might include testing samples of seawater to determine levels of pollution, temperature, and saltiness.
There are some laboratories that are exclusive for the study and experimentation of certain forms of life. A technician might find him or herself working in an oyster lab, studying oyster larvae to decipher if it can be produced commercially in a laboratory. Similar laboratories might conduct experiments on a specific living species to extract properties to produce agents to combat cancer.
Others might be specialists on fish-processing ships and boats. Duties could include gathering and processing organisms that would be used as biological specimens or for research purposes. As a researcher, one could be charged with photographing specimens in their natural habitat using microscopic photography known as photomicrography. Marine life techs use a variety of equipment to complete their daily duties including spectrophotometers, pH meters, microscopes, and other analytical tools.
To become a marine life Tech, you must have a genuine interest in marine biology from the start. If you are not quite sure about your pursuit, read books and watch documentaries; both will give profound insight into the field. Many math and science courses should be taken at the high school level.
Two years at a community college, with an emphasis on chemistry, zoology, marine botany, and biology will prepare a person to gain employment in this field. If you prefer a four-year degree, a biological science degree is highly recommended.
The number of qualified marine professionals far exceeds the demand for this profession. Government jobs, which are significant employers for this field, are limited; therefore, due to the high competition, it is imperative that you be absolutely know that this is the career choice for you. The anticipated salary for a biological technician is about $25,000. Of course, the higher the degree you earn, the better the chances are for a better salary.
Job prospects for all careers can fluctuate with the times. So, this should not be a deterrent for you to become a marine life technician. It is best to know for sure before making a commitment, though. Get exposed to the field; take marine biology online courses, find a related part-time job, apply for an internship, or signup to volunteer to help make up your mind. With online school, you can easily get a degree in science!
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