Marine Scientist- Fisheries Observer

Groundfish Observer Position

Training runs from July 21 through August 5, 2026. Full‑time at sea employment begins immediately after training.

• Required documents:
  Resume, College Transcript (degree award), and Cover Letter.
• Open port assignments:
  New Bedford, MA;
  Boston, MA;
  Gloucester, MA.

Specializes in marine and fisheries data collection services for scientists and industry. Staff include fisheries biologists, marine mammal experts, and professional observers.

The observer is the sole scientist aboard a commercial fishing vessel (typically 70‑ft, up to 200 miles offshore). Trips last 7‑15 days in all weather.

• Record vessel and trip statistics.
• Track port departure/landing times.
• Document trip economic costs, fishing gear, and haul information.
• Collect catch data (species composition, weight, disposition, discard).
• Collect biological samples (length frequency, otoliths, scales, vertebrae).
• Record protected species information and play specialized sampling.

Approved candidates attend a 2.5‑week paid National Marine Fisheries Service‑led training in Falmouth, MA. Training includes wage, lodging, and meal per diem.

Candidates must arrange lodging within 50 mi of assigned port by end of training.

Open port assignments:
New Bedford, MA;
Boston, MA;
Gloucester, MA.

• Good attitude and willingness to work in field conditions.
• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences.
• At least 30 semester hours in science/technical courses, with 6 in marine science or fisheries. One year of specialized field experience may substitute the 6 semester hours.
• CPR certification (American Red Cross or American Heart Association).
• Basic First Aid certification.
• No prior termination or decertification as an observer in NMFS programs due to data quality or conduct issues.
• Physically fit: swim 50 yards, tread water 3 min, don a survival suit in 60 s, climb ladder, lift 50 lb, drag 200 lb, live in confined quarters, tolerate motion sickness, manage stress. Driver’s license and reliable vehicle required.
• Independent worker, willing to sign a no‑less‑than‑12‑month contract.

• Sea and research experience.
• Computer data entry skills.

• Cover letter detailing sea experience, field work, species identification, and research projects.
• Resume.
• Three professional references.
• Unofficial college transcripts with degree award noted.