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Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A.I.S., Inc.

Marine Mammal Data Manager

Miami, FL · On-site

The Marine Mammal Data Manager will support data collection, management, and survey coordination ... Experience managing complex datasets collected from varied surveys and observation platforms.

AIS Inc

Marine Mammal Data Manager

Miami, FL · On-site

The Marine Mammal Data Manager will support data collection, management, and survey coordination ... Experience managing complex datasets collected from varied surveys and observation platforms.

AIS, Inc.

Marine Mammal Data Manager

Miami, FL · On-site

The Marine Mammal Data Manager will support data collection, management, and survey coordination ... Experience managing complex datasets collected from varied surveys and observation platforms.

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Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer information

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How much do entry level marine mammal observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level marine mammal observer in the United States is $27.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level marine mammal observer?

Entry level marine mammal observers are trained professionals who monitor and record the presence and behavior of marine mammals during activities such as offshore construction, seismic surveys, or shipping. Their primary role is to ensure that these activities comply with environmental regulations and minimize potential harm to marine life. Observers are often responsible for identifying marine mammals, documenting sightings, and advising when operations should be modified or halted to protect animals. Entry level positions typically require a background in biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with specialized training on marine mammal identification and observation protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level marine mammal observer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer, you need a background in marine biology or environmental science, keen observational skills, and often a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS devices, and marine survey protocols is typically required, along with certifications such as BOEM/BSEE-approved Protected Species Observer training. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work long hours in challenging field conditions are critical soft skills. These competencies are essential for accurately monitoring marine mammals, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting environmental protection in offshore projects.

What are the main challenges faced by entry level marine mammal observers in the field?

Entry level Marine Mammal Observers often face challenges such as long hours in variable weather conditions, the need for sustained concentration to accurately spot and record marine mammals, and adapting to life on vessels or remote locations. Teamwork is essential, as observers frequently collaborate with environmental scientists and vessel crews to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Building strong communication skills and resilience is key to overcoming these challenges and succeeding in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer vs Entry Level Marine Biologist?

AspectEntry Level Marine Mammal ObserverEntry Level Marine Biologist
Required CertificationsMarine Mammal Observer Certification, basic marine safetyBachelor's degree in Marine Biology or related field, basic certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore, on boats or platforms, fieldworkLaboratories, field sites, research vessels
Industry UsageOil & gas, renewable energy, environmental monitoringResearch institutions, conservation projects, academia

While both roles involve marine environments, the Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer focuses on monitoring marine mammals during offshore activities, requiring specific certifications. The Entry Level Marine Biologist has a broader research scope, often involving laboratory work and academic research. Both roles are essential in marine industries but differ in focus and work setting.

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Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Marine Mammal Observer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,953 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Marine Mammal Data Manager

Miami, FL • On-site

A.I.S., Inc.
Environmental Consulting Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about A.I.S., Inc.external

Other

Medical, Dental, PTO

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulations as well as collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is looking for a Marine Mammal Data Manager to support SEFSC Marine Mammal & Turtle Division (MMTD).


Primary Function:

The Marine Mammal Data Manager will support data collection, management, and survey coordination within the SEFSC Marine Mammal and Turtle Division. This role oversees all aspects of field research activities from project design through data collection, management, sharing, and dissemination in coordination with Principal Investigators and MMTD leadership, ensuring compliance with NOAA data governance policy and FAIR data principles. This position is contingent upon contract award and available funding.


Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Develop and update standard research protocols; ensure compliance with scientific research permit requirements under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Endangered Species Act, and Animal Welfare Act.
  • Manage and curate data for accuracy and quality; ensure metadata is provided and data is properly stored, archived, and accessible in established cloud repositories per NOAA's Data Governance Strategy.
  • Apply the latest techniques and software for managing large and complex datasets (acoustics, photo-ID, omics, survey data).
  • Collaborate with MMTD team members to formulate analytical solutions to marine mammal management questions integrating existing NOAA data streams.
  • Run editing and validation procedures to maintain high-quality data for advanced analysis and varied data users.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for Chief Scientist(s) to provide project planning, budget, and logistical support for ship and/or field surveys.
  • Assist Project Investigators, MMTD, and Center Director in preparing ship time requests, justifications, and evaluating potential funding and time allocation scenarios.
  • Oversee field survey equipment inventory, repair, maintenance, and storage, including forklift and crane operations as needed to prepare and load/unload equipment.
  • Prepare survey equipment for loans nationally and internationally.
  • Maintain and update MMTD website, including posting newsworthy stories, field survey blogs, and sharing briefings and reports internally and externally.
  • Develop written technical reports and peer-reviewed publications; disseminate scientific results via presentations to diverse stakeholder groups.
  • Attend planning and coordination meetings with MMTD researchers virtually or in person.


Compensation:

Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated, and total compensation will vary depending on candidates' depth of experience. This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • B.S. degree with 1 year of relevant research experience.
  • Working knowledge of marine mammal or marine species data collection and processing.
  • Experience managing complex datasets collected from varied surveys and observation platforms.
  • Ability to work with other data managers to coordinate data processing efforts.
  • Proficient technical writing skills to maintain adequate documentation of data processing protocols.
  • Experience writing and editing technical reports describing data summaries and trends in scientific publications.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in marine ecology, environmental science, oceanography, or a related field;
  • Experience with cloud-based data repositories and NOAA data governance frameworks.
  • Familiarity with FAIR data principles (Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, Reusability).

Travel:

  • Travel is required. Field participation in MMTD marine mammal and turtle research; survey equipment logistics; meetings, workshops, and conferences.


Location:

  • 75 Virginia Beach Drive, Miami FL 33149 (SEFSC Miami Laboratory)

An Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of A.I.S. to recruit, hire, train, promote, transfer and compensate our employees and provide all other conditions of employment including Company sponsored events without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, lawful alien status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Must be able to work in the U.S. * VEVRAA Federal Contractor * Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals * Equal Opportunity Employer

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