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Aerial Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer III

Miami, FL · On-site

Participate in aerial or vessel-based surveys, providing abundance and behavioral data on marine species.Represent the observer program professionally in interactions with vessel crews, port ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer II

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

May participate in aerial surveys and surveys to provide abundance data or describe fisheries to be used in observer data analysis and program design. REQUIREMENTS: * Bachelor's degree or higher in a ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer II

Miami, FL · On-site

$34K - $41K/yr

May participate in aerial surveys and surveys to provide abundance data or describe fisheries to be used in observer data analysis and program design.REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor's degree or higher in a ...

The Talmadge Group

Be Seen First

Drone Pilot - GSDF 911th Support BN

Ellenwood, GA · On-site

$32K - $41K/yr

Real-time aerial reconnaissance and observation systems What You'll Do As a Volunteer GSDF Drone Pilot, you may have opportunities to: * Operate sUAS platforms during training and operational ...

Quanta Services

Laborer - Aerial Utility

Hockley, TX

$14.50 - $18/hr

We specialize in aerial and underground construction, Design/Engineering/Permitting, inside plant ... Reporting any issues or hazards observed during work. QUALIFICATIONS: * Must have a valid Driver ...

Army National Guard Units

$131K - $171K/yr

Develops POI's for proper utilization of aviators and aerial observer training requirements. Trains and evaluates instructor pilots on tactical techniques of instruction. * Performs other duties as ...

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Aerial Observer information

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$9

$25

$46

How much do aerial observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial observer in the United States is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial observer?

To thrive as an Aerial Observer, you need strong observational skills, attention to detail, and a background in fields such as environmental science, law enforcement, or firefighting is often preferred. Familiarity with GPS systems, aerial photography equipment, and portable communication devices is typically required, and some roles may require specific aviation safety certifications. Excellent situational awareness, clear communication, and the ability to work effectively in dynamic and sometimes stressful environments are important soft skills. These qualities are vital for gathering accurate information, ensuring safety, and providing actionable reports during aerial missions.

What are the typical work conditions and challenges faced by an aerial observer?

Aerial Observers often work in aircraft such as helicopters or small planes, sometimes for extended periods and in varying weather conditions. The job may involve long hours of focused observation, quickly recording data or spotting targets while in motion, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Teamwork is key, as Observers often coordinate closely with pilots, ground crews, and emergency responders to relay information and support decision-making. The dynamic nature of the work means adaptability and quick problem-solving are essential, especially during emergency or wildfire response missions. While the challenges can be significant, many find the role rewarding due to its impact on public safety and environmental protection.

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Aerial Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Observer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,650 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Right Whale Aerial Observer

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater, FL • On-site

Temporary

Posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Participate in right whale aerial surveys and collect data on whales, vessels, and other species of interest.

  • Photograph sightings, process images, and conduct quality control checks on survey data.

  • Transmit location information to relevant communication networks and prepare data for submission to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium.

Job description

This is a grant funded position - the position is contingent upon funds

This position is based in a field house. The locations are Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina. The length of time in position is determined based on the field assigned. All positions start in early November/late October.

POSITION TITLE: Right Whale Aerial Observer

REPORTS TO: Right Whale Aerial Team Leader

SUPERVISES: N/A

EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Non-Exempt, Temporary

PERCENTAGE OF FT WORK: 100%

LOCATION: Offsite

PERMANENT/TEMPORARY/SEASONAL: Temporary

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

  • Participate in right whale aerial surveys in the southeastern U.S. coastal waters under the direct supervision of the Right Whale Team Leader
  • Collect data and images on large whales (condition, behavior, associations, status, etc.), and location data on vessels and other species of interest
  • Facilitate the transmittal of location information to the various communication networks, the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, New England Aquarium, and NOAA.
  • Photograph sightings via digital photography with processing and matching those images in real-time or following each flight
  • Verify and conduct quality control checks on aerial survey data
  • Present information to the scientific and public communities
  • Complete data spreadsheets, photo-analysis, and photo-identification of individuals, analyze data, prepare data for submissions to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium, and other tasks as required and/or assigned by the supervisor

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • International applicants must secure own visas or other required documentation
  • Previous aerial or marine mammal survey experience is preferred 
  • Experience in photo-identification of large cetaceans is strongly desired
  • Successful completion of aviation and marine safety and survival training after hire 
  • Applicants should be proficient in database entry and Microsoft Office programs
  • Demonstrated ability with memorization skills
  • Proven track record of attention to detail
  • Maintaining open lines of communication 
  • Ability to live and work well in a team environment is essential 
  • Expect to work on weekends and holidays

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Survey flights require continual focus with eyes and ears - daily
  • Ability to work in a small aircraft up to eight hours - daily
  • Ability to work while in close, confined spaces - daily
  • Ability to work in extreme varying environmental conditions EX: humidity, heat, and rain - daily
  • Strong tolerance to working on a continuous motion-based platform - daily
  • Weekend and holiday work required - frequently
  • COVID-19 vaccination – required

Please upload your cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information of three professional references during your application submission. Application deadline is August 21, 2026.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required. 

All job requirements are subject to change to reflect the evolving position requirements or to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to which will be required in this position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor/manager (within guidelines and compliance with Federal and State Laws). Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.

A statement of “temporary” position is not a guarantee of employment. It simply means the role has a set end date (typically up to 1 year) and/or has deliverables to be met and if those deliverables are not met the position may be terminated. In Florida, employment is "at-will" by default, meaning either party can terminate the relationship at any time for any legal reason and as such continued employment remains on an “at-will” basis.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. 

Clearwater Marine Aquarium participates in E-Verify, please view the Notice of E-Verify Participation and the Notice of Right to Work.