Marine Mammal Observer

Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and observant individual to join our team as a Marine Mammal Observer/ Protected Species Observer in Kodiak, Alaska starting in June 2025. The qualified PSO will monitor for marine mammals onboard vessels or land-based platforms. The PSO's duties include documenting marine mammal sightings and behavioral data, environmental conditions, and construction activities as instructed in the marine mammal monitoring and mitigation plan. PSOs will communicate shutdowns to the construction crew via radio or cell phone to cease in-water work when appropriate. With the nature of marine construction, the hours would be weather and activity dependent, but we typically try to work 7 days a week, 12 hours a day on the construction side, MMO hours would be slightly less depending on schedule.

PSO Requirements

- Have vision correctable to 20-20;

- Have the ability to effectively communicate orally, by radio, and in person, with project personnel to provide real-time information on marine mammals;

- Have prior experience collecting field observations and recording field data accurately and in accordance with Proposed Action protocols;

- Be able to identify Alaskan marine mammals to species;

- Be able to record marine mammal behavior; and

- Have technical writing skills sufficient to create understandable reports of observations.

• PSO(s) will complete PSO training prior to deployment. The training will include:

- Field identification of marine mammals and marine mammal behavior;

- Ecological information on Alaska’s marine mammals and specifics on the ecology and management concerns of those marine mammals;

- ESA and MMPA regulations;

- Mitigation measures outlined in the IHA;

- Proper equipment use;

- Methodologies in marine mammal observation and data recording and proper reporting protocols; and

- An overview of PSO roles and responsibilities.

• PSO(s) will work in shifts lasting no longer than 4 hours with at least a 1-hour break from monitoring duties between shifts. PSOs will not perform PSO duties for more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period.

• PSO(s) will have the ability and authority to order appropriate mitigation responses, including shutdowns, to avoid Level A and B takes of all marine mammals.

Join us in making a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation through diligent observation and research!

Turnagain Marine Construction is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal, Temporary

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• 4 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Morning shift
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Kodiak, AK 99615 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Kodiak, AK 99615: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $25