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Full Time Whale Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation ... whales). Preferred Qualifications: * Experience in NOAA Fisheries cetacean bioacoustics research.

... research in cancer therapy. This partnership offers Providence Cancer Center-Seaside providers and ... Position Details: * Full-time, 1.0 FTE at 4-days per week (open to less than full-time) * Monday to ...

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Full Time Whale Research information

What is a full time whale researcher?

A full time whale researcher is a scientist who studies whales and their habitats as their primary occupation. These professionals may conduct fieldwork observing whales in their natural environments, collect data on whale behavior, migration, and population health, and analyze the effects of environmental changes on whale species. Their work often involves travel, data analysis, and collaboration with other researchers and conservation organizations. The goal is to better understand whales and contribute to their conservation and protection. Full time whale researchers typically have backgrounds in marine biology or related sciences.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in full time whale research positions?

Full-time whale researchers often face challenges such as working in remote or harsh marine environments, which can involve unpredictable weather and extended periods at sea. Data collection can be physically demanding and may require long hours of observation, sometimes with limited connectivity to the outside world. Additionally, researchers must adapt to technological tools for tracking and documenting whale behavior, while maintaining meticulous records for accurate scientific analysis. Collaboration with other scientists and organizations is also essential, as research projects are frequently part of larger, multi-institutional efforts.

What is the difference between Full Time Whale Research vs Marine Biologist?

AspectFull Time Whale ResearchMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Marine Biology, Ecology, or related fieldsSame as Whale Research, often with advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentField research, ocean expeditions, marine reservesLaboratories, fieldwork, research institutions
Employer & IndustryResearch organizations, conservation groups, government agenciesUniversities, research institutes, NGOs
Search & Comparison IntentYes, often compared for specialization in whale studiesBroader marine research roles

Full Time Whale Research focuses specifically on studying whales, often involving field expeditions and conservation efforts. Marine Biologists have a broader scope, studying various marine life, including whales. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their specialization and research focus differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time whale researcher?

To thrive as a Full-Time Whale Researcher, you need a solid background in marine biology, ecological research, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with technical tools such as GPS tracking devices, hydrophones, GIS software, and statistical analysis programs is often required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating in diverse environments and sharing findings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective research outcomes, and meaningful contributions to marine conservation efforts.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Whale Research jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Whale Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Whale Research jobs? The most popular types of Whale Research jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Whale Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Whale Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Whale Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Whale Research jobs are:
Infographic showing various Full Time Whale Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Aerial Observer - Assistant Research Scientist II

New England Aquarium

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

$24.97 - $24.98/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

The Assistant Research Scientist II in EcoMAP serves as an observer on aerial surveys of whales, dolphins and sea turtles in New England waters. They are responsible for sightings and effort flight logs, data quality checking, and submission to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium sightings database. Submission to the sightings database ensures we meet our grant reporting deliverables. They are also responsible for photo-analysis of digital imagery for species detection and identifications, and processing and facilitating submission of right whale data to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium Identification database. Submission to the identification database requires independent judgement when making decisions about photograph processing to ensure data accuracy. Finally, the Assistant Research Scientist II will act as lead observer in the plane in the absence of survey coordinator or Principal Investigator (PI). Acting as the lead observer requires independent judgement when making decisions about survey protocols, which are significant to staff safety, ensuring permit compliance, and accurate data collection.
This is a full-time, 1-year, grant-funded position with the possibility for extension. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package. This position requires some irregular hours and some long days on flight days. Occasional work on weekends and holidays will also be required for fieldwork. The usual hours for non-fieldwork will be Monday - Friday, 9a - 5p with flexibility based on the fieldwork schedule, which represents a 35-hour week, with a 1-hour unpaid meal period each day. Non-fieldwork can be conducted remotely. Remote days are only available for residents of MA, RI, NH, ME, NY and VT. Candidates must have access to reliable transportation to get to and from New Bedford airport as early as 7am.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  1. Contribute to at least one peer-reviewed publication and one presentation at a scientific conference in a three-year period.
  2. Lead responsibility for sightings and effort flight logs, data quality checking, and submission to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium sightings database. This task ensures we meet our grant reporting deliverables.
  3. Lead responsibility for photo-analysis of digital imagery for species detection and identification, and processing and facilitating submission of right whale data to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium Identification database (Catalog, curated by NEAq).
  4. Act as aerial observer on surveys for cetaceans and sea turtles, including participating in aerial photography. Act as lead observer in the plane in the absence of survey coordinator or PI. Maintain safety and camera equipment and assist with preparation and in-flight troubleshooting.
  5. Participate in all aerial survey activities, including observer logistics, scientific data collection, monthly reporting, photographic and data analysis, and ground contact.
  6. Act as internal point of contact for questions about aerial surveys. Represent NEAq at public events.
  7. Contribute to achieving NEAq's goals and mission, through Department work and actively integrating with other Anderson Cabot Center Departments and the broader NEAq community.
  8. Contribute to Department fundraising strategy by independently writing grant reports and sections of grant proposals.
  9. Maintain aircraft and marine safety and survival training.
  10. Other duties as applicable and mutually agreed upon with the Aerial Survey Principal Investigator.

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Training and Experience
  • Requires a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, preferably in Biology or related field.
  • Requires 4-8 years of research experience; at least two of these years must represent specialized experience for the role (aerial or vessel-based survey experience).
  • Participation in right whale, other large whale, and turtle aerial research program.
  • Experience managing large data sets and writing or proofing code in R strongly desired.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Specialized photographic skills including previous experience using digital SLR cameras, especially for wildlife photography.
  • Demonstrated skill in identifying marine mammals of New England, including individual photo-identification.
  • Comfortable flying in a small aircraft (can't get motion sickness).
  • Familiarity with digital photography equipment and field use.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs. Experience with Access and statistical software would be advantageous.
  • Good communication and coordination skills.
  • Ability to meet deadlines for data and report deliverables, attention to detail for proofing and quality checking data, and ability to spend long hours performing photo analysis in the office.

For more information and to apply online please visit:
New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Here we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet, and we believe a diverse workforce provides experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our work environment.