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Fisherman In Alaska Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saltwater Inc

CR Observer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The shellfish fisheries in Alaska are managed by quotas, which are set by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). They use observer data to monitor crab populations, set catch limits, and ...

Saltwater Inc

CR Observer

Seattle, WA · On-site

The shellfish fisheries in Alaska are managed by quotas, which are set by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). They use observer data to monitor crab populations, set catch limits, and ...

Sight Partners

Optometrist Alaska

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$200K/yr

A chance to live in one of Alaska's most scenic and welcoming communities, where you can enjoy: World-class hiking, fishing, skiing, dog mushing, and outdoor adventure. A tight-knit, family-friendly ...

Sight Partners

Optometrist Alaska

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$200K/yr

... in one of Alaska's most scenic and welcoming communities, where you can enjoy: World-class hiking, fishing, skiing, dog mushing, and outdoor adventure. A tight-knit, family-friendly community with a ...

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Fisherman In Alaska information

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$26

How much do fisherman in alaska jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for fisherman in alaska in the United States is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Fisherman In Alaska vs Seafood Processor In Alaska?

AspectFisherman In AlaskaSeafood Processor In Alaska
CredentialsNone required, but certifications like STCW may helpFood safety certifications (e.g., HACCP) often required
Work EnvironmentOpen water, outdoor, physically demandingIndoor, processing plants, cold environment
Industry UsageHarvesting fish at seaProcessing and packaging seafood
Common Search IntentFishing jobs, commercial fishingSeafood processing jobs, factory work

Fisherman In Alaska primarily involves harvesting fish in open waters, requiring outdoor skills and physical endurance. Seafood Processor In Alaska focuses on processing seafood in indoor facilities, often requiring food safety certifications. Both roles are vital in Alaska's fishing industry but differ significantly in environment and job functions.

Can you get paid to be a fisherman?

Fishermen can earn income through commercial fishing, which involves catching fish or seafood for sale. Pay varies based on factors such as experience, the type of fish caught, and the season, with some fishermen earning a salary or share of the catch. Certification and knowledge of fishing regulations are often required for employment in this field.

How to get a job as a fisherman?

To become a fisherman, gain experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships, and obtain relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential if required. Familiarity with fishing equipment, safety protocols, and physical endurance are essential, and many jobs are seasonal with long hours at sea.

What fisherman in Alaska fishing jobs are in demand?

In Alaska, commercial fishing jobs such as salmon, crab, and pollock fishing are in high demand due to the region's rich fisheries. Positions often require physical stamina, knowledge of fishing gear, and sometimes certifications like STCW or safety training. These roles are seasonal and typically pay based on catch volume or share agreements.
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Fisherman In Alaska jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fisherman In Alaska job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,711 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

CR Observer

Saltwater Inc

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Collect biological data such as crab shell measurements, crab ID and sexing, and by-catch samples during fishing trips.

  • Report daily fishing effort, activity, and radio updates to ADF&G while monitoring interactions with protected species.

  • Identify and observe various marine specimens, including threatened birds, fish, and corals, to support sustainable fisheries management.

Job description

Alaska Shellfish Observer Jobs

Now Hiring for the 2026-2027 Fishing Season

Saltwater Inc is actively hiring candidates to train as an Alaska Crab Observer

Alaska crab observers collect biological data while living onboard commercial fishing vessels working in the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska.

The shellfish fisheries in Alaska are managed by quotas, which are set by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). They use observer data to monitor crab populations, set catch limits, and monitor interactions with protected seabirds, marine mammals, and corals. Crab Observers are likely to witness a wide array of specimens at sea, including starfish, halibut, Pacific cod, sponges, octopus, and more. Observer data is critical to ensuring that these fisheries remain sustainable and healthy. 

The majority of the vessels in the crab fleet are catcher vessels that range in size from 80-130 feet. Conditions can vary widely — but all deployments require observers to be flexible, resourceful, and have the ability to work long hours with heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds). The workday is determined by the vessel’s fishing schedule and can range from 5-15 hours a day, with most of the assignments based out of Dutch Harbor, Alaska. Typical trip lengths are 10-14 days, but can last longer with the possibility of multiple back-to-back deployments. 

 

Observer Duties

  • Collect crab shell measurements.
  • Carry out crab ID and sexing.
  • Sample and report by-catch.
  • Collect information on daily fishing effort & activity.
  • Radio reports to ADF&G.
  • Identify threatened birds, fish and corals.

Preferred Requirements

 

  • Bachelor of Science in a biological science or limnology; or 
  • Prior experience as a fisheries observer approved by ADF&G. 
  • 30 Credit hours in applied biology. 
  • One statistics course or one math course.
  • Experience using dichotomous (taxonomic) keys. 
  • Eligible to work in the U.S.

 

 

 

Interested Applicants who do not meet our preferred experience can potentially leverage their at-sea experience and will be strongly considered for these positions. Please see below:

 

 

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Basic Education + Sea Experience
  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED), AND
  • At least 180 sea days of successful offshore or research vessel service in Alaskan waters, North Pacific Ocean, or North Atlantic Ocean, consisting of multi-day deployments (multi-week voyages preferred, AND
  • Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under physically and mentally demanding sea conditions


OR:

 

  • Some College + Sea Experience
  • Successful completion of at least 30 semester credit hours (or equivalent) of college-level coursework from an accredited institution AND
  • At least 30 sea days of cumulative offshore or research vessel service in Alaskan waters, North Pacific Ocean, or North Atlantic Ocean, consisting of multi-day deployments (multi-week voyages preferred) AND
  • Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under physically and mentally demanding sea conditions

 

 

 

 

 

Training

ADF&G conducts training courses in Kodiak, Alaska and candidates must pass an intensive 3-week class with a score of 90% or better. Training Dates are: September 14 – October 2, 2026. 


 

 

Contracts

The Alaska Crab Fishing season opens on October 15, 2026 and runs through May 31, 2027. Upon training completion, successful candidates will fly to Dutch Harbor, Alaska in preparation for the October 15 season opener, and must commit to a minimum of 180 days at sea during the fishing season.