ENDANGERED SPECIES OBSERVERS NEEDED – IMMEDIATE and FUTURE OPENINGS

REMSA Inc’s Coastal & Marine Division is seeking skilled and experienced Endangered Species Observers to monitor sea turtles, marine mammals, sturgeons, and birds during dredging and other marine construction projects on various waterways along the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico in the United States.. Observers need to be available to travel on short notice, be able to live aboard an off-shore vessel for periods of time (3-4 weeks). Must be able to work independently and follow technical instructions as required.

*Sufficient marine mammal and sea turtle experience is mandatory, and the ability to work in various job locations throughout the U.S. is a plus.

Duties include, but are not limited to the following:

Identification of marine animals at distance, up close, and in pieces to the correct species for: sea turtles,  marine mammals, sturgeons, and saw-tooth fish.
Maintain bridge watch for sea turtles and marine mammals during all operative hours

 Physically inspect each dredge load screening basket, and points of intake for evidence of any endangered or threatened species live or dead, in whole, or severely damaged.
Report interactions with endangered/threatened species to various government agencies as determined within the project’s specifications.

Data collection, tagging, biopsies, and record keeping of biological sampling data for sea turtles and other species of concern as determined by the project detailed Biological Opinion and Specifications.

REQUIREMENTS:

Must be a U.S. Citizen or have authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship or restrictions

Must have (or be eligible to obtain) Endangered/Protected Species approval from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)

Must have a valid Driver’s License & Clean Driving Record

Must be able to lift 50 pounds, operate in confined spaces, and climb ladders aboard ships and crew boats

Must have or be able to obtain a Federal TWIC clearance

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology, Biology, Ecology or similar education with at least one year of specialized AT-SEA experience. Extensive exposure and knowledge through experience will be considered.

Experience

Extensive hands-on experience with sea turtles and/or marine mammals is required for consideration.

Identification of sea turtles, marine mammals and other protected marine animals to species.

Data collection, biological sampling, identification of bones and body parts to species, necropsy experience a  plus

Reporting interactions with endangered/threatened species to various government agencies.

Working independently and able to get along with crew members at sea

Compliance overseer willing to communicate to regulatory officials, program managers, and difficult persons in a clear, competent and non-confrontational manner.

BENEFITS & SALARY:

This is an Independent Contractor position; salary varies with project location and scope of work.

Travel expenses to/from project locations are the responsibility of the observer.

Lodging and meals are provided onboard at-sea hopper dredge vessels.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Candidates do not need to reside in the local area, but must have a flexible schedule and able to travel to assignments. Candidates living on the East Coast & Gulf of Mexico are strongly preferred.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should send the following application materials:

Detailed resume documenting all relevant experience, NMFS certifications, education, and skills

Cover letter outlining why you would be a good fit for this position. Please indicate if you have worked with REMSA, Inc. before.

Submit all materials as attachments: PDF files or MS Word files via email to:

emcmichael@remsainc.com

REMSA Inc. Supports a Drug Free Work Place

EOE of Minorities/Females/Vets/Disability