National Marine Sanctuary Superintendent

Also called: Sanctuary Manager

Runs one of America's underwater national parks, like the Florida Keys or Monterey Bay sanctuaries.

A day in the life

The superintendent balances protecting reefs and whales with fishing, tourism, and shipping. Days include meetings with fishermen and scientists, approving permits, and occasionally diving the sanctuary itself.

Pay over a career

Starting
$105k
Typical
$135k
High
$170k

Estimate based on federal GS-14/15 pay.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Master's degree, about 12 years after high school. Master's in marine science, policy, or resource management plus years of federal or nonprofit experience.

Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school, On-the-job training. Training cost: $60k – $150k.

Majors to look at: Marine Science, Marine Policy, Environmental Management.

Outlook

Growing about average (about 2% over 10 years).

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. AI helps draft plans and track permits; balancing fishermen, tourism and protection in public meetings stays human.

Start now, in high school

Classes: AP Environmental Science, AP Government, Speech and debate.

Official data: O*NET occupation 11-9121.

More Marine Conservation & Coastal Management careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.