North Pacific Observer

North Pacific observers collect biological data while living aboard commercial fishing vessels working in the North Pacific Ocean and eastern Bering Sea. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) uses this information for in-season fishery management and to establish sustainable fishing quotas for future fishing seasons. The North Pacific is a highly productive ecosystem which is home to enormous fish resources as well as a host of wildlife including many whale species, Steller sea lions, sea otters, seals and an amazing selection of seabirds.

Observer data is critical to ensuring the sustainability of the valuable marine resources.

Observers work on boats that range in size from 60-foot long liners to 600-foot processing factories. Working conditions on fishing boats vary widely but all are almost always challenging in Alaska, where cold, wet weather is the norm. Biologists typically work out on an open deck, often for hours at a time, or for long periods of time in factories. Observers must be flexible and resourceful in establishing a sampling station and sampling methods, and capable of heavy lifting.

Observers determine their own workday depending on the vessel’s fishing schedule and NMFS’ sampling protocols. Sampling and paperwork often require observers to work long and odd hours, seven days a week. Shifts range from 5 to 15 hours a day, and it’s rare to sleep uninterrupted for eight hours. Trip lengths vary from as little as a few days to as long as 30 days or, very rarely, 8 weeks erver contracts are typically for 90 days and can be renewed indefinitely.

We encourage — and reward — repeat contracts.

Saltwater Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

• Provide independent catch estimates.
• Sample catches for species composition and size.
• Collect biological samples.
• Monitor marine mammal and bird interactions with fishing gear.
• Bachelors of Science in a biological science or limnology; or
• Valid NMFS certification; or
• Prior experience as a fisheries observer approved by ADF&G.
• One statistics course and one math course.
• Drug Test (pre-screen & random tests).

• Previous experience as an observer.
• Experience in scientific data collection and data entry beyond college.
• Previous experience on boats.
• Valid and current passport.

To be eligible to work as a North Pacific observer, candidates must attend and pass an intensive 3-week class. NMFS conducts training in Seattle at various times throughout the year. Saltwater selects candidates from qualified applicants, and pays for their time, meals, and room and board during training.