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Marine Mammal Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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Marine Mammal Observer information

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$14

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$58

How much do marine mammal observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 marine mammal observer?

Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) are trained professionals who monitor marine environments for the presence of marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, and seals, particularly during offshore industrial activities like seismic surveys, construction, or drilling. Their primary role is to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and minimize harm to marine life by observing, recording, and reporting sightings. MMOs may also advise on mitigation measures, such as delaying operations if marine mammals are detected nearby, to reduce potential impacts from noise or other disturbances.

What does a marine mammal observer do?

As a marine mammal observer, you are a specialist whose duties involve monitoring whales, dolphins, and other ocean-dwelling mammals. In this field, you track marine mammals visually and use tools like hydrophones to detect the sound of a nearby whale or dolphin. You may also attach a physical tag with a transmitter to track an animal. Your responsibilities involve tracking these animals for scientific research purposes, studying the effect of commercial or industrial operations, such as oil drilling or construction, and ensuring that businesses and individuals abide by regulations meant to protect marine mammal habitats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine mammal observer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Marine Mammal Observer, you generally need a degree in marine biology or a related field, along with experience in wildlife observation and identification. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS systems, and relevant certifications like BOEM/BSEE or JNCC approval are typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work long hours in challenging offshore environments are vital soft skills. These skills ensure accurate monitoring and reporting, help protect marine life, and maintain compliance with environmental regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by marine mammal observers in the field, and how are they typically managed?

Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) often encounter challenging environmental conditions such as extreme weather, long hours of observation, and the need to maintain focus for extended periods. Visibility can be limited due to fog, rain, or rough seas, making it difficult to spot marine mammals. To manage these challenges, MMOs use specialized equipment like binoculars and thermal imaging, adhere to strict safety protocols, and work in shifts to minimize fatigue. Team collaboration is essential, as MMOs frequently coordinate with vessel crews and scientists to ensure accurate data collection and compliance with environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Marine Mammal Observer vs Marine Wildlife Observer?

AspectMarine Mammal ObserverMarine Wildlife Observer
CertificationsMarine Mammal Observation Certification, safety trainingWildlife Observation Certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentOffshore, marine settings, close to vesselsOffshore or coastal, marine and sometimes terrestrial settings
Industry UsageOil & gas, renewable energy, marine researchEnvironmental surveys, conservation projects, research

The Marine Mammal Observer primarily focuses on monitoring marine mammals during offshore activities, ensuring their protection. Marine Wildlife Observers have a broader scope, including various marine species, often in environmental and research contexts. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, their specific focus and industry applications differ.

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Marine Mammal Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 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.

Advanced Marine Mammal intern

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater, FL • On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

This is an unpaid internship intended for previous interns to advance their knowledge and experience beyond the basic internship.

POSITION TITLE: Advanced Marine Mammal Intern

REPORTS TO: Marine Mammal Intern Coordinators

SUPERVISES: N/A

EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: N/A

ON-SITE, REMOTE, OR HYBRID: On-Site

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:

The Advanced Marine Mammal internship at Clearwater Marine Aquarium is designed to give individuals an advanced educational experience into what it takes to gain a career caring for marine animals, with emphasis on Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, North American river otters, pinnipeds, great white pelicans, and rough toothed dolphins.

Advanced Marine Mammal Interns support the goals and objectives of the marine mammal program by observing, learning and then demonstrating various skills under the supervision of the marine mammal team including but not limited to: diet preparation, animal observations, data collection, data analysis, providing exceptional guest experience through daily interactions, narrations on a microphone, hosting guest interaction programs, cleanliness of the facility, maintaining and designing animal habitats and basic animal care skills.

Length of the program is a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 6 months, working 30hrs per week.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Share knowledge of Clearwater Marine Aquarium, natural history, and biographies of resident animals with guests
  • Expand on basic knowledge of animal behavior and record on designated observation shifts, assist staff members with data collection and data analyzing
  • Observe, learn and demonstrate basic animal care skills as deemed fit by the marine mammal staff members
  • Strong communication skills with clear, friendly, and effective verbal and nonverbal communication
  • Great time-management skills with ability to plan, organize, and multi-task
  • Able to be self-motivated and disciplined with excellent work ethics while also working in a team environment
  • Attend various seminars relevant to continuing education, work alongside staff members to further understanding of animal care and operant conditioning
  • Provide support for opening, daily, and closing of the facility
  • Provide exceptional guest experience through daily interactions, narrations on a microphone, and hosting guest interaction programs
  • Follow all USDA policies and procedures to ensure a clean, safe environment for our animals
  • Provide a safe working environment for animals, team members, and guests by abiding by all safety policies and procedures
  • Observe, learn, and demonstrate mentoring skills for new volunteers and interns

EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

  • Seeking or recently completed a four-year degree in psychology, biology, marine biology or another related field preferred
  • Prefer that advanced internship begins the semester immediately following completion of regular internship (if still enrolled in college/university)
  • Completed the Marine Mammal internship program with an above average rating within the past two semesters (ex: regular intern in summer 2023 can begin advanced internship up until summer 2024)
  • Current CPR/First Aid Certification preferred
  • SCUBA Certification preferred
  • Great time-management skills with ability to plan, organize, and multi-task
  • Demonstrated ability to be self-motivated and disciplined with excellent work ethics while also working in a team environment
  • Strong communication skills with clear, friendly, and effective verbal and nonverbal communication

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Able to work in adverse environmental conditions (heat/cold/weather) - Frequently
  • Lift and carry 50 lbs - Frequently
  • Walk/stand for long periods of time – Frequently
  • Push and pull larger equipment – Frequently
  • Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spaces - Frequently
  • Must possess basic swimming skills or willingness to wear personal flotation device (PFD) when around animal habitats if incumbent does not have basic swimming skills

Due to working inside animal areas, interns are required to remove all jewelry and loose items from their person prior to the start of each shift.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium 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.

Company 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.