sample career path

LEVEL 1
Educator at an Aquarium
EARNINGS
$25,000 to $35,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field • Some teaching experience
RESPONSIBILITIES
Teaching students and the general public about environmental concerns linked to the marine ecosystem.

LEVEL 2
Supervisor at an Aquarium
EARNINGS
$35,000 to $45,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS
• Some experience as an educator in the field • Management abilities
RESPONSIBILITIES
Leading a team of educators; managing the day-to-day operations within a program at the aquarium; teaching students and the general public about environmental issues.

LEVEL 3
Aquarium Manager
EARNINGS
$45,000 to $60,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS
• Master’s degree in marine biology is recommended • Team leadership experience • Management ability
RESPONSIBILITIES
Managing a department, including a number of staff and projects; increasing administrative duties (such as budgeting and program management).

LEVEL 4
Aquarium Director
EARNINGS
$60,000 to $75,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS
• Graduate degree (master’s or PhD) • Experience managing an aquarium
RESPONSIBILITIES
Setting goals for the aquarium; working with senior managers to meet these goals through program development, organization, and evaluation; performing administrative duties.