Protected Species Observer - Norfolk, VA

AIS Inc•Norfolk, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

AIS is recruiting Protected Species Observers (PSO) to deploy on a vessel conducting geophysical survey operations off the coast of Virginia. PSOs are needed to stand watch while the vessel is underway to record data on protected species sightings and mitigation measures when necessary. The PSO will operate in shifts during offshore operations which will be conducted 24/7, with an average of 8-12 hours of work per PSO per day. This position is expected to start July 23, 2026, for an estimated 4-6 weeks of work.

Requirements

Must have current STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), GWO, BOSIET or equivalent training.
Must have current CPR/First Aid certification.
4-year degree with major in biological sciences
Must be certified by a physician as fit for sea duty including: Not be susceptible to chronic motion sickness, Ability to live in confined quarters, Ability to tolerate stress, Ability to lift objects up to 30 pounds, Ability to vigilantly monitor waters surrounding observation platform/vessel for up to 4 hours at a time and not more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period.
Must have passed an approved PSO course/training and provide certificate.
Must have 30 days of at-sea experience monitoring for marine mammals, including baleen whales, and recording observational data.
Must be approved as a PSO for the Sunrise Wind project via NMFS PSO approval team.
Must not be affiliated with any group that may impair objectivity or the appearance of objectivity.
Must have proof of eligibility to work within the US.

Nice To Haves

NMFS PSO approval letters

Responsibilities

Identify marine animals using the naked eye and visual technology.
Vigilantly monitor for visual detections of marine mammals around observation location for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period.
Advise vessel crew on the project specific regulatory requirements and real time mitigation actions.
Documenting behavior and other essential data.
Collect and enter data into the required data form in an organized manner.
Conduct personal QA/QC checks on data collected and entered into data form.
Operate and maintain field equipment including mounted thermal cameras, Garmin GPS, binoculars with reticles, range finder, and high-resolution digital camera with video capabilities.
Attend daily toolbox, HSE and project related meetings as needed.