Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.

Working Life

A Scientific & Technical Officer (STO) usually works with the Marine Institute or other State organisations. The role involves collecting and analysing ocean data, including information on fish stocks, aquaculture, and marine habitats. STOs support national and EU monitoring programmes, write reports, and provide evidence that helps government decision-making. The work can include office-based data tasks, laboratory work, and fieldwork at sea or along the coast.

STOs also support marine policy and environmental protection. They work with scientists and organisations such as BIM on research projects, new technologies, and sustainability initiatives. This role suits people who enjoy science, working with data, teamwork, and protecting the marine environment.

Role and Tasks

Data Collection
Gather samples and observations at sea, along the coast, or in the lab.

Data Analysis and Interpretation
Process and examine data to produce reliable scientific results.

Monitoring and Policy Support
Provide evidence to support marine policy, management, and sustainability decisions.

Reporting
Prepare technical and scientific reports for government, stakeholders, and research partners.

Collaboration and Outreach
Work with scientists, State agencies, and industry groups on joint projects and data sharing.

Quality Assurance
Ensure data is accurate, reliable, and meets scientific standards. 

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Prepare technical and research reports, such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.
• Develop and maintain liaisons and effective working relations with groups and individuals, agencies, and the public to encourage cooperative management strategies or to develop information and interpret findings.
• Collect and analyse biological data about relationships among and between organisms and their environment.
• Program and use computers to store, process, and analyse data.
• Supervise biological technicians and technologists and other scientists.
• Identify, classify, and study structure, behavior, ecology, physiology, nutrition, culture, and distribution of plant and animal species.
• Communicate test results to state and federal representatives and general public.
• Prepare requests for proposals or statements of work.
• Represent employer in a technical capacity at conferences.
• Study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and function.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Most STO roles require a third-level degree in marine science, ecology, environmental science, fisheries, mathematics, or a related field. Many Irish universities and technological universities offer suitable programmes. For example, the University of Galway offers a BSc in Marine Science, and Atlantic Technological University offers a BSc in Applied Freshwater & Marine Biology.

Sample relevant courses 

• BSc (Hons) Applied Freshwater & Marine Biology - Atlantic Technological University
• BSc Wildlife Biology - Munster Technological University
• BSc Biological, Environmental & Geological Sciences - University College Cork
• BSc Environmental Science - University of Galway
• BSc Environmental Biology - University College Dublin
• MSc Marine Biology - University College Cork
• MSc in Applied Marine Conservation - Atlantic Technological University
• MSc Fresh Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment - University College Cork
• MSc Applied Environmental Geoscience - University College Cork
• MSc Environmental Sciences - Trinity College Dublin

Leaving Certificate Subjects that benefit the role of Scientific and Technical Officer

• Biology
• Chemistry/ Physics
• Mathematics
• Geography
• Computer Science
• Agricultural Science

Practical experience-such as field sampling, laboratory work, or data analysis gained through research projects or technical assistant roles-is highly valued and can improve your chances of entering the profession. 

Many scientific and technical officers (STOs) begin as junior or assistant STO’s, supporting field surveys, lab work, or data collection. With experience and further training, they can advance to senior STO, project manager, or team leader roles and specialise in areas like fisheries assessment, aquaculture research, or marine ecosystem monitoring.

Some also move into policy, regulatory, or industry roles with organisations such as the Marine Institute, BIM, or the SFPA (Seafood Safety and Protection Authority). In these roles, they manage research, oversee data quality, contribute to scientific reports, and support sustainability, innovation, and marine resource management.

Sample Entry and Training Timeline

Start Your Journey

• Roles: Entry-level positions supporting field sampling, lab work, data collection, or research.
• Time: 0-3 years
• Qualifications: Relevant third-level degree (marine science, ecology, environmental science, fisheries science, or maths), basic lab or field experience, familiarity with data tools.

Grow Your Expertise

• Roles: Scientific analysis, monitoring programmes, policy support, report writing, technical project work.
• Time: 3-8 years
• Qualifications: Advanced skills in data analysis, GIS (Geographic Information System), statistical programming, experience in EU or national monitoring programmes, fieldwork experience, ability to manage small projects or teams.

Advance to Senior Roles

• Roles: Lead STO, project manager, programme coordinator, research team lead, specialist in fisheries, aquaculture, or marine ecosystem assessment.
• Time: 8+ years
• Qualifications: Postgraduate degree or professional certification, extensive field and data experience, leadership skills, strategic planning, and knowledge of EU directives and marine policy.

*This timeline is for illustrative purposes; actual career progression varies depending on experience, training, and opportunities. 

Sample Education and Training Pathways

A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: laboratory assistant, technical officer, research assistant.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: applied science, applied laboratory, pre-university science, forensics, applied ecology, biodiversity studies.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Accounting, Finance, Sales.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: applied freshwater, marine biology, biology, applied biology, wildlife biology, science, biopharmaceutical science, applied chemistry, marine science, science. 

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: biology, marine biology, molecular cell biology, bio innovation, applied coastal and marine management, applied marine conservation, coastal and marine environments, physical processes policy and practice, marine biological resources, marine sciences, structured, bioinformatics, computational biology, systems biology, research.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €38k - €77k

Data Source(s):
Marine Institute

Last Updated: December, 2025

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical scientists, Biological scientists and biochemists, Physical scientists, Social and humanities scientists, Natural and social science professionals n.e.c., Research and development managers.  

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2025).

Employment growth was above average for this occupation over the five-year period with growth since 2023 of 4,100 persons. At 26%, the share of non-Irish citizens employed in this occupation was above the national average. Over a third of all science & engineering online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) in 2024 were for this occupation, especially relating to R&D managers.

Employment permits issued were mainly for roles in industry including medical/analytical scientists, chemists). The Recruitment Agency Survey highlighted issues with recruiting for various scientific roles, while Skills for Growth data identified issues recruiting chemists and microbiologists with key skills in demand including AI, quality standards/quality processes, leadership and technical report writing.

Compared to 2019, the number of biochemistry and chemistry awards in 2023 increased to reach over 700 and more than 1,200 awards respectively. Despite this increase in supply, it does not appear to be sufficient to meet the high level of demand for these occupations. Shortages are expected to persist, particularly in the life sciences sector, for those with experience and/or in niche areas. 

Skills shortage:

Analytical, process, & medical scientists

• Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM)

  • Crofton House, Crofton Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
  • (01) 214 4100
  • Click Here

• Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

  • Agriculture House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
  • (01) 607 2000 Lo Call 1890 200 510
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • PO Box 3000 Johnstown Castle Estate Wexford
  • 053-916 0600
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• National Maritime College of Ireland

  • Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork
  • (021) 433 5600
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Environmental Health Association Ireland - EHAI

  • Heraghty House 4 Carlton Terrace Novara Avenue Bray Co Wicklow Ireland
  • (01) 276 1211
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Marine Institute

  • Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway. H91 R673
  • 353 (0)9 138 7200
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here