Right Whale Aerial Observer

Clearwater Marine Aquarium • Clearwater, FL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a grant-funded, temporary, non-exempt position that is contingent upon funds. The role involves participating in right whale aerial surveys in the southeastern U.S. coastal waters. The position is based in a field house with locations in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The length of time in the position is determined by the field assigned, with all positions starting in early November or late October. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required and to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Continued employment is on an at-will basis.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• International applicants must secure own visas or other required documentation.
• Applicants should be proficient in database entry and Microsoft Office programs.
• Demonstrated ability with memorization skills.
• Proven track record of attention to detail.
• Maintaining open lines of communication.
• Ability to live and work well in a team environment is essential.
• COVID-19 vaccination – required.

Nice To Haves

• Previous aerial or marine mammal survey experience is preferred.
• Experience in photo-identification of large cetaceans is strongly desired.
• Successful completion of aviation and marine safety and survival training after hire.

Responsibilities

• Participate in right whale aerial surveys in the southeastern U.S. coastal waters under the direct supervision of the Right Whale Team Leader.
• Collect data and images on large whales (condition, behavior, associations, status, etc.), and location data on vessels and other species of interest.
• Facilitate the transmittal of location information to various communication networks, including the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, New England Aquarium, and NOAA.
• Photograph sightings via digital photography with processing and matching those images in real-time or following each flight.
• Verify and conduct quality control checks on aerial survey data.
• Present information to the scientific and public communities.
• Complete data spreadsheets, photo-analysis, and photo-identification of individuals, analyze data, prepare data for submissions to the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium, and other tasks as required and/or assigned by the supervisor.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level