Sometime I will have to introduce you to my friend Dana. He's a marine mammal biologist with the fed gov. I don't know know too many more professional details than that but he's got great stories and photos. He could probably give you some insight into what the career is like.
He's also very inspirational. I know him thru the tri club. While his age group is "more advanced", he's one of the "youngest" guys I know. He has a sand volleyball court in his backyard and a house in So Cal that he keeps so he surf on his time off.
"My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand." Thich Nhat Hanh