The variety of ocean conservation jobs is vast, as nearly any job wherein a person works to protect and preserve the Earth's oceans may be considered an ocean conservation job. Researchers, such as marine biologists, make up a large percentage of those workers and may be employed by government agencies, nonprofit environmental organizations, or even corporations. There are also ocean conservation jobs that are based on educating people about the issues surrounding the health of the ocean. These types of jobs may even include practicing as an environmental lawyer or lobbyist.
Scientists, researchers, and biologists comprise a significant segment of the ocean conservation jobs. Sometimes, these researchers conduct field studies, spending months at a time on the open waters of the oceans. During those times, a scientist might survey marine animals and fish, recording valuable information, such as the number of births and deaths and details on migration. These researchers then typically write reports, indicating their findings. Depending on the specific project, a scientist may study a broad spectrum of ocean-related issues, or she may focus on a particular matter, such as an endangered marine species.
Corporations also hire scientists and researchers for ocean conservation jobs. For example, a shipping company might hire a marine engineer to study the energy efficiency of a fleet of ships. These engineers may be responsible for preventing the leakage of oil, fuel, or other waste into the ocean. They might also study and inform the company of the most environmentally sound shipping routes.
A large number of ocean conservation jobs are based on educating people. These jobs can be found at universities, government agencies, aquariums, zoos, and nonprofit organizations. While many of these ocean conservation jobs may be based in classroom settings, teaching students about the health of the ocean and how to protect it, other jobs may be based in office settings. For example, a person might be responsible for creating a newsletter, updating a website or blog, or even issuing a press release on behalf of a particular organization, company, or agency.
Lobbyists and lawyers are also needed in the field of ocean conservation. These types of ocean conservation jobs may be among the most difficult to find. Often, these individuals will be employed by nonprofit organizations. They will typically fight through congressional forums or through the courts to make permanent changes to the rules and regulations governing the protection of the oceans.