Fishery Observer II

*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 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 fishery-dependent data aboard commercial fishing vessels throughout the Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic, and Caribbean.

As an experienced observer, you will work independently and with minimal supervision, applying advanced sampling methods and scientific judgment to gather high-quality data essential for fisheries management and compliance with environmental legislation such as the Magnuson-Stevens Act (MSA), Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and Endangered Species Act (ESA).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collect, analyze, and verify biological and environmental data on catch composition, retained and discarded species, and bycatch, following NOAA SEFOP protocols.
• Estimate amounts and species composition using statistically valid sampling methods and dichotomous keys for species identification.
• Gather compliance and management data through direct observations, captain and crew interviews, and onboard documentation of fishing operations.
• Conduct protected species observations (e.g., sea turtles, marine mammals, seabirds) and record all interactions accurately.
• Tag and collect samples from priority species including sharks, tunas, swordfish, and other managed fish stocks.
• Operate and maintain field and safety equipment, ensuring proper functionality and accountability per SEFOP standards.
• Complete post-deployment debriefings with NOAA staff to review data accuracy, sampling methodology, and operational issues.
• Contribute to in-season reporting and assist with program outreach when required.
• Deployment aboard commercial fishing vessels, often in remote or offshore locations for periods ranging from 4 to 18 days, depending on the fishery.
• May work in physically demanding and variable marine conditions, including inclement weather, confined quarters, and extended periods at sea.
• Travel frequently between port locations in Florida, Louisiana, Texas, North Carolina, and the Caribbean.
• Work may occur during nights, weekends, and holidays as dictated by vessel schedules.
• 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.
• May participate in aerial surveys and surveys to provide abundance data or describe fisheries to be used in observer data analysis and program design.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a natural science (e.g., Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field).
• Minimum of one year of prior fishery observer or equivalent field data collection experience.
• Ability to work independently at sea for extended periods with limited supervision.
• Physical and medical fitness to perform duties aboard vessels, including lifting equipment (up to 50 lbs) and enduring sea conditions.
• Strong communication and analytical skills, including the ability to clearly document findings in written and electronic formats.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications
• Proficiency in data entry and electronic sampling software.
• Prior training in protected species observation, marine mammal identification, or aerial survey participation.
• Familiarity with Federal fisheries regulations and enforcement procedures.
• Completion of NOAA-approved observer training (3-week program in Galveston, TX) with a passing score of 80% or higher and demonstrated proficiency in safety drills and survival training.

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