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Marine Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer I

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

The Fishery Observer I supports NOAA's mission to conserve and manage marine resources by collecting high-quality fishery and environmental data aboard commercial fishing vessels operating in the ...

Bradford Marine

Marine Plumber

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Marine Plumber is responsible for assembling, installing, and repairing piping systems ... Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate ...

Bradford Marine

Marine Plumber

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Marine Plumber is responsible for assembling, installing, and repairing piping systems ... Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate ...

Allen Marine Tours

Marine Mechanic III

Juneau, AK · On-site

$20 - $34/hr

The Marine Mechanic III will perform oil and fuel filter changes, other basic preventative maintenance and will report any observed issues to supervisory staff. Essential Duties & Responsibilities ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer III

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

Participate in aerial or vessel-based surveys , providing abundance and behavioral data on marine species. * Represent the observer program professionally in interactions with vessel crews, port ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer III

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

Participate in aerial or vessel-based surveys , providing abundance and behavioral data on marine species. * Represent the observer program professionally in interactions with vessel crews, port ...

Allen Marine Tours

Marine Mechanic III

Sitka, AK · On-site

$20 - $34/hr

The Marine Mechanic III will perform oil and fuel filter changes, other basic preventative maintenance and will report any observed issues to supervisory staff. Essential Duties & Responsibilities ...

asrcfh

Marine Master Part-Time

Orient, NY

Marine transportation furnished by Government provided ferry. Key Role: * Commands and supervises ... USCG Radar Observer obtained within 90 days of hire * Advances Shipboard Firefighter Certification ...

AIS, Inc.

Marine Biologist - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$5K - $8K/mo

The primary goals of the government's North Pacific Observer Program are to provide quantitative ... Marine Biologist deploy on commercial fishing vessels operating in the Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea ...

asrcfh

Marine Master Part-Time

Orient, NY

Marine transportation furnished by Government provided ferry. Key Role: * Commands and supervises ... USCG Radar Observer obtained within 90 days of hire * Advances Shipboard Firefighter Certification ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Marine Master Part-Time

Orient, NY · On-site

$44 - $52/hr

Marine transportation furnished by Government provided ferry. Key Role: * Commands and supervises ... USCG Radar Observer obtained within 90 days of hire * Advances Shipboard Firefighter Certification ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer II

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

The Fishery Observer II plays a critical role in NOAA's mission to promote sustainable fisheries and protect marine ecosystems. This position supports NOAA by collecting, verifying, and analyzing ...

Vigor, LLC

Marine Electrician Journeyman

Seattle, WA

$38.75/hr

Vigor Marine Group takes pride in being the employer of choice for our employees, who in turn take ... observe a large field of vision while keeping eye fixed on a given point for job performance or ...

Vigor, LLC

Marine Electrician Journeyman

Seattle, WA

$38.75/hr

Vigor Marine Group takes pride in being the employer of choice for our employees, who in turn take ... observe a large field of vision while keeping eye fixed on a given point for job performance or ...

Vigor, LLC

Marine Electrician Journeyman

Seattle, WA · On-site

$38.75/hr

Vigor Marine Group takes pride in being the employer of choice for our employees, who in turn take ... observe a large field of vision while keeping eye fixed on a given point for job performance or ...

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$26

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How much do marine observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine observer in the United States is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Marine Observer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Marine Observer, you need a solid background in marine biology or environmental science, keen observational skills, and attention to detail. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS navigation, marine survey software, and often certifications like STCW or BOEM observer training are typically required. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively or independently on vessels in challenging sea conditions are highly valued. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safety, and effective reporting while supporting vital marine conservation and regulatory compliance efforts.

What are the typical work conditions and schedule like for a Marine Observer?

Marine Observers commonly work onboard commercial or research vessels for extended periods, ranging from several days to a few weeks, depending on the project. Shifts can include irregular hours and require long days at sea, often in varying weather conditions. The role often involves living in close quarters with other crew members and maintaining consistently high standards of data accuracy and safety. Flexibility and resilience are important, as deployments may require rapid response or adapting to changing schedules. These experiences provide valuable fieldwork opportunities and foster strong professional skills for career advancement in marine science and environmental monitoring.

What is a Marine Observer job?

A Marine Observer is responsible for monitoring and collecting data on marine environments, weather conditions, and vessel activities. They often work aboard ships or offshore platforms to ensure compliance with regulations, record wildlife sightings, and report potential environmental hazards. Their observations support scientific research, regulatory enforcement, and maritime safety. This role requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of marine ecosystems, and the ability to work in challenging ocean conditions.

More about Marine Observer jobs
What cities are hiring for Marine Observer jobs? Cities with the most Marine Observer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Observer jobs? The most popular types of Marine Observer jobs are:
What states have the most Marine Observer jobs? States with the most job openings for Marine Observer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Marine Observer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Marine Observer jobs are:
Marine Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Observer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Fishery Observer I

Fishery Observer I

Think Tank, Inc.

Key Biscayne, FL

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

*Authorized to work in the US Required (US Citizen Preferred)

*Onsite at a SEFSC Facility (TX, FL, Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic, or Caribbean)

*Proposal Effort: Position is Subject to Contract Award

*Must be able to provide 3 professional references

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Fishery Observer I supports NOAA's mission to conserve and manage marine resources by collecting high-quality fishery and environmental data aboard commercial fishing vessels operating in the Southeast United States, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean. Observers are critical in ensuring sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems through direct data collection and scientific observation.

You will work independently aboard commercial vessels to document fishing operations, collect biological samples, record species data, and monitor interactions with protected species. This is a demanding but rewarding opportunity to contribute directly to marine conservation science.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Collect scientific, management, and compliance data at sea through direct observation of fishing operations, including sampling catch, measuring fish, and documenting bycatch species such as sea turtles and marine mammals.
  • Interview vessel captains and crew to obtain accurate fishing effort and gear information.
  • Record and enter data using standardized electronic and written formats in accordance with NOAA's Observer Sampling Manual.
  • Collect biological samples for use in stock assessments, including tissue, otolith, and specimen samples.
  • Conduct safety checks using the Pre-Trip Vessel Safety Checklist and ensure compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Maintain equipment and ensure all sampling and safety gear is accounted for and in proper working order.
  • Assist NOAA staff in debriefings and data verification sessions following deployments.
  • May tag species of interest including sharks, tunas, sablefish, spiny lobsters, swordfish and sea turtles.
  • May observe and document compliance with fishery
    regulations, and may write affidavits. May camp at remote sites and may operate All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV's)
    and skiffs.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in a natural science (e.g., Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field).
  • Ability to work independently at sea for extended periods (up to several weeks) without medical restrictions.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) in English.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certifications (must be renewed annually).
  • Physical fitness sufficient to perform duties aboard vessels, including climbing ladders, lifting up to 50 lbs, and enduring rough sea conditions
  • Previous experience working on or around commercial fishing vessels.
  • Familiarity with fish identification, marine sampling techniques, or data collection methods.
  • Understanding of NOAA's fisheries monitoring and marine conservation mandates (MSA, MMPA, ESA).

Please contact hr@ttinc.com if you have any questions or concerns.

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