Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Observers

Company: Cardno
Location: Riverview
Posted on: June 8, 2021

Job Description:

Join Cardno as a Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Observer.

Job Description:

Cardno is looking for certified Protected Species Observers (PSOs) / Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) that have experience with marine mammal and sea turtle observations for potential aerial and shipboard surveys. Other potential survey areas include harbors, nearshore coastal waters, and beaches. This is a project hire position that will become available when we are awarded a PSO/MMO and/or PAM project.

Objectives of projects can include:

> Seasonal distribution and abundance;

> Mitigation and monitoring of potential effects from oil and gas development and disturbance, including visual and passive acoustic (PAM) monitoring surveys during geophysical (seismic) surveys, marine construction operations, dredging, beach re-nourishment activities; and

> Photography and photo-identification and cataloging.

Duties/Responsibilities May Include:

> Actively conduct protected species (marine mammal and sea turtle) monitoring from vessels at sea, often for long days and several consecutive weeks and assist the vessel's maritime and geophysical/geotechnical crews in maintaining operational compliance.

> Follow visual protocols and search methods for sighting protected species.

> Wherever necessary, implement required mitigation measures to avoid interference or negative impacts to protected species.

> Implement Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) for the detection and presence of vocalizing marine mammals.

> Work from a vessel platform and utilize visual observations and echosounder to determine if schools of fish are present in the blasting area prior to blasting activities occurring.

> Identification of fish and protected species documenting the location, documenting behavior and other essential data.

> Operate and maintain field equipment including Garmin GPS, binoculars with reticles, range finder, and high-resolution digital camera with video capabilities.

> Accurately record data on standardized forms associated with daily sighting activities, as well as self-audit data prior to submission.

> Documenting data on logs in an organized manner and provide daily activity reports.

> Provide field communication/support with appropriate onshore and offshore personnel.

> Perform data QC, analysis and write technical reports.

> Flexibility and willingness to travel is required.

Qualifications:

> Degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Zoology, Bioacoustics or a related field.

> BOEM and/or JNCC PSO certification, (training for is a possibility for the right candidate).

> Previous marine wildlife monitoring experience, expertise in identifying sea turtles and marine mammals, background in bioacoustics, and/or familiarity with protected species biology and behavior.

> Familiarity with relevant regulations (Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act)

> Additional certification as a Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) operator is a plus, but not a requirement.

> Valid BOSIET and offshore medical (UKOOA/OGUK), TWIC or other related certificates.

> Proficiency with software tools (Word, Excel, and data entry software).

Observers may participate in surveys at a variety of domestic locations. Depending on the survey, this position may require substantial time spent in the field which may include overnight stays on marine vessels. This position often supports works days of approximately 8 -12 hour shifts per day on average, 7 days per week. The position may alternate schedules for 2 weeks on and 2 weeks off the project. To be added to our PSO/MMO/PAM database, please apply for this position.

Equal Opportunity statement for US based applicants

Cardno has a long standing policy of Equal Opportunity in employment. Our practice is to fill positions by selecting applicants who can perform the work in a competent and professional manner. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status. At any time, if you need an accommodation during the application process, please contact Human Resources.

Cardno does not accept unsolicited resumes from any 3rd party agencies. No fee will be paid to 3rd parties who submit unsolicited resumes to any Cardno employee. Resumes from approved vendors must be specifically requested by Cardno and approved by the Cardno Talent Acquisition Team.

Keywords: Cardno, Tampa , Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Observers, Other , Riverview, Florida