Their salaries are based on the amount of education and experience they have. With the rampant technological advances of the past two decades, knowledge of, and the ability to use computer programs are becoming job requirements of a research technician. Since these positions often require less formal training, they also offer less room for advancement and a lower salary. Although research is one of the most commonly thought-of marine careers, it is an area limited both by funding and the number of researchers currently in the field. On the other hand, jobs in business and government may be expanding.
Biotechnology associated with marine organisms is a field that projects a strong future.
Environmental consulting and planning are two areas that have grown as the laws affecting aquatic areas have become more strict. With the increase in laws applying to aquatic areas comes an increased need for management of those areas. Natural resource management occurs at the local, state, and federal levels and jobs may include wildlife park rangers, Coast Guard members and National Marine Sanctuary planners and administrators. Fisheries worldwide are declining, as natural resources have been over-harvested. Historically the oceans have been viewed as a limitless source of food, but time and experience have proven this notion false.