Biologists play an important role as experts in environmental conservation, fisheries management and aquaculture. This ranges from understanding and managing the growth of species on land and in hatcheries, farms and river systems, to communicating the impact those operations will have on local surroundings.
They are responsible for the health and welfare of stock on sea and in fresh water.
Biologists must apply their scientific knowledge to monitoring the health of the aquatic species being grown and be able to recommend ways to improve efficiency.
Working Conditions
Biologists often use different methods of analysis, including sampling surveys, water quality determinations, environmental impact studies and fishery operation inspections.
Salary
Salaries vary with experience, qualifications and between companies, but here's a guide to what you can expect.
£25,000
£44,000
Getting started
You may not need any specific environmental knowledge to find employment as a biologist, but it will help your application. Good communication and organisational skills are particularly important.
What experienced workers can do
- Organise and co-ordinate events
- Address the diverse needs and expectations of customers
- Assess site resources
- Research and prepare environmental interpretive activities
- Monitor the production and use of interpretive media
- Facilitate outdoor experiences to meet the recreational/education needs of the participants
- Promote responsible public use of outdoor sites
- Assist with fundraising planning
- Lead the work of volunteers
- Negotiate and secure sources of funding.
Personal qualities you should have
- Be able to interpret data
- Be able to plan, undertake and evaluate surveys
- Be able to collect and report on a range of fish data
- Supervise fisheries research projects
- Be able to manage others
- Manage a budget
- Use technology to capture fish data.
Next steps
A biologist may look to progress into a specialist area or choose to become a consultant offering advice.
Useful links
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
Scottish Environment Protection Agency