Offshore Protected Species Observer — Vessel Lodging Included

aisobservers; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 55,104 - 103,320; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental insurance

Vacation and holidays

Meals and lodging on vessel

Job summary

AIS is recruiting Protected Species Observers to deploy on a vessel conducting geophysical survey operations off the coast of Virginia. The PSO will observe for protected species, record data, and advise on mitigation measures; shifts can be up to 12 hours within a 24-hour period, with operations 24/7, starting July 23, 2026 for 4–6 weeks.

Qualified candidates will hold NMFS PSO approval letters, STCW BST/GWO/BOSIET or equivalent, CPR/First Aid, a 4-year biology degree, fitness for sea duty, and

Qualifications

• PSO course/training and NMFS approval required.
• CPR/First Aid certification required.
• 4-year degree in biological sciences required.
• Physician's fitness for sea duty certification required.
• At least 30 days at-sea experience monitoring marine mammals required.

Responsibilities

• Identify marine animals using the naked eye and visual technology.
• Monitor for marine mammals around observation location for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period.
• Advise vessel crew on project regulatory requirements and real-time mitigation actions.
• Document behavior and other essential data.
• Enter data into required data forms in an organized manner.
• Perform QA/QC checks on collected data and entries.
• Operate and maintain field equipment (thermal cameras, GPS, binoculars, range finder, camera).
• Attend daily toolbox, HSE and project meetings as needed.

Skills

PSO training / NMFS approval

CPR / First Aid

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences

Job description

AIS is recruiting Protected Species Observers to deploy on a vessel conducting geophysical survey operations off the coast of Virginia. The PSO will observe for protected species, record data, and advise on mitigation measures; shifts can be up to 12 hours within a 24-hour period, with operations 24/7, starting July 23, 2026 for 4–6 weeks.

Qualified candidates will hold NMFS PSO approval letters, STCW BST/GWO/BOSIET or equivalent, CPR/First Aid, a 4-year biology degree, fitness for sea duty, and