REMSA has immediate openings for Marine Endangered Species Observers. Some of this work will be conducted in the GOM aboard trawlers relocating sea turtles and hopper dredges checking for incidental takes.
Hands-on sea turtle experience is absolutely required. Below is more information on this opportunity. Time Period: Year-round or seasonal Positions available immediately Location: Gulf of Mexico and US Atlantic Ocean (primarily VA to FL) Background Information: REMSA Inc. has been in business since 1986, our Marine Endangered Species Observer Program (MESO) was established in 1999 as a service to dredge companies to provide government (NMFS) approved observers in support of hopper dredge and other offshore operations. Observers are skilled at monitoring sea turtles, marine mammals, sturgeon and birds. Our primary goal is to facilitate marine related activity while supporting national, state and local conservation efforts. Duties: Observers conduct marine endangered species observations aboard dredges in various waterways along the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico in the U.S. * Work 12-hour shifts * Maintain bridge watch for sea turtles and marine mammals * Report interactions with endangered/threatened species to various government agencies * Ability to identify sea turtles (often by remains) and marine mammals to species * Detailed data recording * Work independently while following technical instructions * Get along well with diverse individuals * Maintain objectivity * Work aboard ships at sea for approximately 3-4 weeks at a time * Work in adverse/inclement weather conditions ** Observers are INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS, not full-time employees ** Requirements: (e.g. skills, education, fitness) * US Citizenship Required * B.S. in Marine Biology or related field (experience may substitute for educational experience) * Extensive hands-on experience with sea turtles is necessary to be considered * Marine mammal experience * Capable of lifting objects weighing 50lbs unassisted * Physically able to climb in/out of tight spaces and up/down ladders on board ships * Necropsy experience a plus * Be adapted for a life at sea (not susceptible to motion sickness, be able to live in confined work spaces, be able to tolerate stress and physically able to move around ships) * The ability to work closely with others and the requirement to be physically fit cannot be overemphasized. The close quarters and rigors of shipboard life can be taxing to some and dangerous to others. **SPECIAL NOTE: Previous approval by the National Marine Fisheries Service as an observer is a plus ** Please clearly state this in application. Salary/Stipend or Expenses: Industry Competitive Daily Rate. Travel expenses to/from project locations are the responsibility of the observer. Lodging and meals are provided on-board vessels. Addition Contact Information: Instructions for resume submission: * Include the date (month/year) as a header on your resume * Include resume and cover letter DETAILING sea turtle/marine mammal experience and hands-on marine biological sampling to: Roxanne Carter <mailto:[email protected]> [email protected] Roxanne Carter meso xsmall REMSA, Inc. Coastal & Marine Services Director Marine Scientist 124 W. Queens Way Hampton, VA 23669 <http://www.remsainc.com> www.remsainc.com <http://www.remsameso.com> www.remsameso.com
