# Tasks & work activities — marine biologist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-1023.00 (Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Study animals in their natural habitats, assessing effects of environment and industry on animals, interpreting findings and recommending alternative operating conditions for industry.
- **[Core]** Inventory or estimate plant and wildlife populations.
- **[Core]** Analyze characteristics of animals to identify and classify them.
- **[Core]** Disseminate information by writing reports and scientific papers or journal articles, and by making presentations and giving talks for schools, clubs, interest groups and park interpretive programs.
- **[Core]** Study characteristics of animals, such as origin, interrelationships, classification, life histories, diseases, development, genetics, and distribution.
- **[Core]** Perform administrative duties, such as fundraising, public relations, budgeting, and supervision of zoo staff.
- **[Core]** Inform and respond to public regarding wildlife and conservation issues, such as plant identification, hunting ordinances, and nuisance wildlife.
- **[Core]** Check for, and ensure compliance with, environmental laws, and notify law enforcement when violations are identified.
- **[Core]** Develop, or make recommendations on, management systems and plans for wildlife populations and habitat, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options.
- **[Core]** Conduct literature reviews.
- **[Supplemental]** Organize and conduct experimental studies with live animals in controlled or natural surroundings.
- **[Supplemental]** Coordinate preventive programs to control the outbreak of wildlife diseases.
- **[Supplemental]** Prepare collections of preserved specimens or microscopic slides for species identification and study of development or disease.
- **[Supplemental]** Collect and dissect animal specimens and examine specimens under microscope.

## Detailed work activities

- Advise others about environmental management or conservation.
- Analyze biological samples.
- Assess compliance with environmental laws.
- Collect biological specimens.
- Communicate with the public on environmental issues.
- Coordinate safety or regulatory compliance activities.
- Direct fundraising or financing activities.
- Examine characteristics or behavior of living organisms.
- Implement advertising or marketing initiatives.
- Manage organizational or project budgets.
- Measure environmental characteristics.
- Plan biological research.
- Prepare biological samples for testing or analysis.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Research diseases or parasites.
- Research environmental impact of industrial or development activities.
- Research genetic characteristics or expression.
- Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.
- Supervise employees.