ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Protected Species Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ERM

Protected Species Observer (Field Based)

Hartford, CT · On-site

$96K/yr

... Species Protection Plan and completing daily monitoring and observation reports * Document protected species interactions and assist with data collection. * Ensure that all staff are adhering to safe ...

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 ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer II

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

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 ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer III

Miami, FL · On-site

The Fishery Observer III plays a critical role in the collection, quality assurance, and ... Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and Endangered Species Act (ESA).This role combines hands-on ...

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 ... with protected species. This is a demanding but rewarding opportunity to contribute directly to ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Observer I

Miami, FL · On-site

The Fishery Observer I supports NOAA's mission to conserve and manage marine resources by ... with protected species. This is a demanding but rewarding opportunity to contribute directly to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScience JobsBiology JobsProtected Species Observer Jobs

Protected Species Observer information

See salary details

$6

$25

$61

How much do protected species observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for protected species observer in the United States is $25.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a protected species observer?

A Protected Species Observer (PSO) is an environmental professional who monitors for marine wildlife during activities that could impact protected species, such as construction, seismic surveying, or dredging. Their primary responsibility is to ensure compliance with environmental regulations by identifying protected species and implementing mitigation measures. PSOs document wildlife sightings, advise crews on necessary operational adjustments, and report findings to regulatory agencies. This role helps minimize human impact on marine ecosystems while allowing projects to proceed responsibly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protected species observer?

To thrive as a Protected Species Observer, you need a strong background in biological or environmental sciences, excellent identification skills for marine and terrestrial species, and often a relevant degree. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS, digital cameras, and compliance software—as well as certifications like BOEM/BSEE or PSO/MMSO—is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, strong observational abilities, clear communication, and the capacity to work independently or collaboratively in field settings are important soft skills. These competencies are crucial to ensure regulatory compliance, safeguard protected species, and accurately monitor activities in challenging outdoor environments.

What are the typical work environments and schedules for protected species observers?

Protected Species Observers often work outdoors on ships, construction sites, or offshore platforms, frequently in remote or marine environments. Shifts can include long hours, irregular schedules, or rotating shifts to ensure 24/7 compliance monitoring, especially during critical project phases. The work typically involves extended periods of visual monitoring, recording data, and sometimes living onboard vessels for several weeks at a time. Adaptability to changing weather conditions and the ability to remain alert for extended periods are important aspects of the job. Teamwork with other environmental professionals, project managers, and crew members is also common to achieve safety and compliance objectives.

More about Protected Species Observer jobs

What cities are hiring for Protected Species Observer jobs?

Cities with the most Protected Species Observer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Protected Species Observer jobs?

The most popular types of Protected Species Observer jobs are:

What states have the most Protected Species Observer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Protected Species Observer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Protected Species Observer jobs?

For Protected Species Observer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Protected Species Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protected Species Observer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 25% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,894 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Protected Species Observer, On-call

Seattle, WA • On-site

GEI Consultants
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about GEI Consultantsexternal

$25 - $38/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description

Your role at GEI.
 
GEI has an outstanding opportunity to help support our growing environmental practice. We are looking to add staff to be trained as Protected Species Observers for project-specific workload. Work is expected to be continuous from July, 2026 through February, 2027, with the potential for additional seasons. Employees may have the ability to work up to 40 or more hours weekly if desired during project operations. On-call employees are scheduled for work hours as they become available, usually two to four weeks ahead of time. Each on-call employee can accept or refuse hours assigned to them. Work on projects outside of GEI is also allowed by on-call employees, so long as their outside work does not create a conflict of interest with the work they’re performing on behalf of GEI. This position is located in the Seattle area, so staff will need to be local during project operations. The position includes the following responsibilities:
 
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
  • Conduct visual Protected Species Monitoring for construction projects near Seattle, WA 
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of marine mammal species regulations, visual identifications, and project specific survey protocols. 
  • Prepare field equipment, plan field logistics, and provide oversight of monitoring implementation and data management. 
  • Participating in meetings and phone calls with project teams/managers. 
  • Processing of data and preparation of survey reports documenting findings. 
      Minimum Qualifications
      • BS or higher in biology, ecology, or related field. Undergraduate students may also be considered if they are near to graduation and have applicable experience.  
      • Some familiarity with Pacific marine mammal identification is preferred. 
      • Prior Protected Species Observer training is not required, but is preferred. Training will be provided if prior training has not been done, or is expired. 
      • Demonstrated knowledge of Washington marine mammals, strong field identification skills, and the ability to learn quickly. 
      • Strong oral and written communication skills, including providing clear direction and effective communication in meetings and in person. 
      • Valid driver’s license. 
      • Ability to work in inclement conditions such as uneven/steep terrain, wet conditions, cold and hot weather, and for long hours, if needed.
      • Ability to lift/carry/move supplies and field equipment up to 25 lbs.
      Additional Desired Skills/Interests 
      • Experience with marine mammal visual monitoring or identification. 
      • Prior construction monitoring experience. 
      • Prior experience as a Protected Species Observer. 
      We are GEI. 
       
      Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.  
       
      We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.  
       
      With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here.
       
      Employee-owned. Employee-focused.  
       
      As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more.  Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI’s career site here.
       
      GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes 
      • Market-Competitive Compensation
      • Pay Range For This Position: $25.00 – $38.00/hour
      • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
      • Rewards and Recognition
      • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
      • For Some Positions, Hybrid Work Schedules Are Available
      • And More…
      PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 
      WORK ENVIRONMENT  
        
        
        
      Functional Demands:    
       
       
       
       
      Sedentary
      x 
      Light
       
      Medium
      Other
       
       
      Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row) 
      Physical Activity Requirements
      Occasional
      (0-35% of day)
      Frequent
      (33-66% of day)
      Continuous
      (67-100% of day)
      Not Applicable
      Sitting
       
      X (4+ hours) 
       
       
      Standing
       
      X (1-2 hours) 
       
       
      Walking
       
      X (1-2 hours) 
       
       
      Climbing
      X 
       
       
       
      Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
       (0-25 lbs) 
       
       
       

      What GEI Consultants employees say

      Pay

      Hours and flexibility

      Workplace

      Get the full story on Breakroom

      Apply