CR Observer

Saltwater Inc•Seattle, WA

4h•Onsite

About The Position

Saltwater Inc is actively hiring candidates to train as an Alaska Crab Observer for the 2026-2027 Fishing Season. Alaska crab observers collect biological data while living onboard commercial fishing vessels working in the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska. The shellfish fisheries in Alaska are managed by quotas, which are set by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). They use observer data to monitor crab populations, set catch limits, and monitor interactions with protected seabirds, marine mammals, and corals. Crab Observers are likely to witness a wide array of specimens at sea, including starfish, halibut, Pacific cod, sponges, octopus, and more. Observer data is critical to ensuring that these fisheries remain sustainable and healthy. The majority of the vessels in the crab fleet are catcher vessels that range in size from 80-130 feet. Conditions can vary widely — but all deployments require observers to be flexible, resourceful, and have the ability to work long hours with heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds). The workday is determined by the vessel’s fishing schedule and can range from 5-15 hours a day, with most of the assignments based out of Dutch Harbor, Alaska. Typical trip lengths are 10-14 days, but can last longer with the possibility of multiple back-to-back deployments.

Requirements

High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED), AND at least 180 sea days of successful offshore or research vessel service in Alaskan waters, North Pacific Ocean, or North Atlantic Ocean, consisting of multi-day deployments (multi-week voyages preferred), AND Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under physically and mentally demanding sea conditions
Successful completion of at least 30 semester credit hours (or equivalent) of college-level coursework from an accredited institution AND at least 30 sea days of cumulative offshore or research vessel service in Alaskan waters, North Pacific Ocean, or North Atlantic Ocean, consisting of multi-day deployments (multi-week voyages preferred) AND Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under physically and mentally demanding sea conditions
Eligible to work in the U.S.