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Full Time Marine Mammal Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer II

Miami, FL · On-site

$34K - $41K/yr

Conduct protected species observations (e.g., sea turtles, marine mammals, seabirds) and record all ... May observe and document compliance with fishery regulations, and may write affidavits. May camp at ...

A.I.S., Inc.

Quantitative Ecologist

Miami, FL

$70K - $85K/yr

AIS is looking for a Quantitative Ecologist to support SEFSC Marine Mammal & Turtle Division (MMTD ... This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation ...

A.I.S., Inc.

$70K - $85K/yr

AIS is looking for a Quantitative Ecologist to support SEFSC Marine Mammal & Turtle Division (MMTD ... This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation ...

University of Miami

Research Associate III

Miami, FL

... for a full-time Research Associate III to work as a Marine Mammal Research Associate. The successful applicant will be a member of the NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NFMS) Southeast ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Gear Liasion

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

Full-time Remote Position with field work required*Position is Subject to Contract AwardPosition ... marine mammal stranding events. Key Responsibilities Participate in field studies, data analysis ...

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Full Time Marine Mammal Observer information

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How much do full time marine mammal observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time 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 a full time marine mammal observer?

Full Time Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) are professionals responsible for monitoring and protecting marine mammals during offshore activities, such as seismic surveys, construction, or dredging. Their primary role is to observe and identify marine mammals, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and implement mitigation measures to minimize disturbance or harm to these animals. MMOs typically work on ships or platforms, keeping detailed records and providing reports to regulatory agencies. This position often requires training in marine biology, strong observational skills, and a willingness to work in challenging offshore environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a full time marine mammal observer?

To thrive as a Full Time Marine Mammal Observer, you need a background in marine biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with specialized training in protected species observation. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS systems, and marine mammal identification software is typically required, and certifications like BOEM/BSEE or PSO training may be necessary. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate reporting and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure compliance with environmental regulations, minimize ecological impact, and support successful project operations in marine environments.

What challenges do full time marine mammal observers face while working offshore?

Full Time Marine Mammal Observers often face challenges such as long hours in varying and sometimes harsh weather conditions, which can impact both comfort and concentration. Working in remote offshore locations may require extended periods away from home and limited access to amenities. Additionally, observers must remain vigilant for extended periods to accurately detect and document marine mammal activity, often requiring strong focus and attention to detail. Effective communication and collaboration with vessel crews and other environmental professionals are also essential for ensuring compliance with regulations and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Full Time Marine Mammal Observer vs Part Time Marine Mammal Observer?

AspectFull Time Marine Mammal ObserverPart Time Marine Mammal Observer
CredentialsRequired certifications in marine mammal monitoring, safety, and relevant trainingSame certifications as full time, but may have less extensive training
Work EnvironmentConsistent, long-term monitoring on vessels or offshore sitesOccasional or project-based monitoring, often on a flexible schedule
Employer & Industry UsageTypically employed by marine survey companies or oil & gas industries for ongoing projectsHired for specific projects or seasonal work in marine industries

In summary, a Full Time Marine Mammal Observer works on a regular, ongoing basis with consistent responsibilities, while a Part Time Marine Mammal Observer is engaged for specific projects or periods, often with flexible hours. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in commitment and work schedule.

More about Full Time Marine Mammal Observer jobs

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What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Mammal Observer jobs?

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What states have the most Full Time Marine Mammal Observer jobs?

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Full Time Marine Mammal Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time 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 Trainer II

MISSISSIPPI AQUARIUM

Gulfport, MS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Marine Mammal Trainer 2
Department: Animal Care
Classification: Permanent, Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Direct Report: Curator of Marine Mammals
POSITIONSUMMARY
The position requires ahighly motivated individual who will take direction from the Curators, AreaSupervisors and/or Sr. Vice President of Property Operations in carrying outthe animal care routine and maintenance for an assigned set of habitats. Theposition will also be responsible for maintaining organized written recordspertaining to health, feeding, water quality, animal welfare and behavioralobservations. This position is responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety,protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Alliance of Marine MammalParks and Aquariums (AMMPA) accreditation standards.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists in the daily care and behavioral conditioning of bottlenose dolphins, North American river otters, and other taxa as needed
  • Maintains a superior level of professionalism while performing primary/key roles in daily guest presentation and interaction programs
  • Interacts with guests and crew members in a positive and professional manner

• Assists Senior Animal Care Specialists withthe development and implementation of dynamic animal training projects andprograms that serve to enhance animal care, animal management, guestexperience, and Aquarium public relations
• Actively participates in the progression ofanimal training goals and standards for MSAQ under the direction/supervision ofSenior Marine Mammal Trainers and management, including training new behaviors
  • Possess great knowledge of cetacean and mustelid natural history, individual animal histories and husbandry
  • Able to identify all animals in assigned animal areas and observe any possible abnormalities

• Assist with the developmental goals of MarineMammal Trainers 1, Assistant Marine Mammal Trainers, and Seasonal Marine MammalTrainers
  • Understand all area safety guidelines
  • Attend all seminars and all tests required
  • Play a key role in maintaining the highest standards in the areas of husbandry/cleanliness, diet preparation, record keeping, 24-hour animal observations, and facility maintenance

• To perform other duties as workloadnecessitates, regardless of time, day, or location
• Lead training sessions and may be asked totake on the responsibilities of a Senior Marine Mammal Trainer in their absence
• Perform theexecution of all poolside interactive programs and presentations
• QUALIFICATIONs:
  • A four-year degree in aquatic sciences, zoology, biology, psychology preferred

• Twoor more years of full-time animal care experience from an accredited AMMPA orAZA institution, or equivalent, required
  • Certified SCUBA diver
  • Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, SCUBA dive physical, and area swim test
  • Record-keeping experience, preferably with the TRACKS system
  • Detailed understanding of the biology, behavior, and natural history of marine mammals, with an emphasis on cetaceans, mustelids and other taxa as needed
  • Detailed knowledge of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement animal behavioral conditioning techniques
  • Excellent observation and communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that generate and sustain a positive team atmosphere and professional environment
  • A valid driver's license and the ability to travel if necessary
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, days closed due to inclement weather
  • Experience in preparing and conducting public educational programs
  • Able to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds
  • Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal

TEAMREQUIREMENTS
  • Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.
  • Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest's experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality. Tattoos and piercings must be appropriate and in keeping with a professional image. Depending on the work area, management reserves the right to determine that tattoos will need to be covered during your shift.
  • Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.
  • Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization.

PHYSICALDEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demandsand work environment described here are representative of those that must bemet by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilitiesto perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job,the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger,handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climbstairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell.The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specificvision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision,color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weatherconditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment isusually moderate.
Note: Position will involve exposure to inclementweather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, andpotentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/ordrugs. Occasional use of protectiveclothing or equipment is required e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns.

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