Marine Biology

Marine Biologist/Fisheries Observer

Saltwater

The Ocean is calling…and we want YOU to join our mission in monitoring the health of our oceans to ensure their longevity for future generations.

We understand the unique qualifications this position requires and are fully committed to rewarding the right candidates.

As a world-wide leader in both observer coverage and electronic monitoring, your future is potentially limitless with Saltwater Inc.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Saltwater was founded in 1988 on the belief that the health of fisheries and oceans is one of the critical issues of our time.

We were one of the first companies certified to provide fishery observers when U.S. fishery observer programs were first established. Over the years our commitment to our mission – and our people – has enabled us to attract and retain top talent.

It’s the people who make Saltwater the company it is. We are always looking for people who are smart, creative and adventurous team members. We hire team-oriented people who like to work hard, take on big challenges and get things done. People who care about the ocean and the marine environment, and people who want to do things in life that matter.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, NOAA ProTech-Fisheries Contractor and Certified Women Owned Small Business.

West Coast Observer Jobs:
Observers in the West Coast program work aboard commercial fishing boats collecting biological data on target and bycatch. They monitor marine mammal and sea bird interactions with fishing gear and, check vessel deliveries to verify species identification and weights. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) uses this information to set fishing quotas and monitor the health of fish stocks.

Boats in the West Coast fleet range in size from 18-foot longliners to over 70-foot trawlers. Working conditions vary widely and some vessels may not have bathrooms or showers.

Observers must be flexible, resourceful, able to work long hours, and strong enough to do some heavy lifting (up to 80 pounds). The workday is determined by the vessel’s fishing schedule and NMFS sampling protocols, and can range from 5-15 hours a day. Trips last from 1 to 5 days and multiple back-to-back deployments are common. As with all our observer jobs, we encourage — and reward — repeat contracts.

For more details on the program and observer requirements, see the summary on right or visit the official WCGOP site.

When not onboard vessels, observers live in selected ports along the West Coast of the United States, from Washington to California. We are currently seeking positions in:

Astoria, OR
Newport, OR
Fort Bragg, CA

Observer Duties

Provide independent catch estimates of target species and bycatch.
Sample species composition.
Provide fish ID and measurements.
Collect biological samples.
Monitor marine mammal and bird interactions.
Document fishing activity (set times, positions, gear performance, etc.).
Record and report all data to NMFS.
Comply with all regulatory requirements.
Carry out assigned special projects.

Catch Monitor Duties

Confirm Species Sorting and Weighs.
Sample prohibited Species
Provide fish ID
Collect biological samples.
Record and report all data to PSMFC.
Comply with all regulatory requirements.
Carry out assigned special projects.

Minimum Qualifications: General observer requirements, plus:

Bachelors of Science in a biological science or limnology; or Valid NMFS certification; or; Prior experience as a fisheries observer approved by ADF&G.
One statistics course and one math course.
College course using dichotomous (taxonomic) keys.

A CPR and First Aid certification. Training: Observer training is an intensive 3.5-week course offered by NMFS at various times throughout the year in Newport, OR. Candidates must pass this training to be eligible for a contract with Saltwater. How to Apply Click the link below to fill out our online application form.

Assistant Hatchery Manager

Cherrystone Aqua Farms

Cherrystone Aqua Farms (CAF) is a family owned and operated company in its second century of growth and innovation. As the leading cultured shellfish producer on the East Coast, we produce and sell millions of hard clams and eastern oysters annually. Our commercial hatcheries in Cape Charles and Willis Wharf, VA are the foundation of our entire operation, and we are investing in their future.

CAF is seeking an experienced, driven aquaculture professional to serve as an Assistant Hatchery Manager. This is a leadership position designed to both support current hatchery operations and to develop alongside our current Hatchery Manager and be positioned to step into that role.

The Assistant Hatchery Manager reports directly to and works alongside the Hatchery Manager to oversee all aspects of the hatchery: daily production operations, staff and schedule coordination, and long-term planning. Successful candidates will work alongside the hatchery team in all areas, understanding the work from the ground up and leading by example.

Operations & Production

Oversee daily hatchery operations including algae production, broodstock conditioning, spawning, larval rearing, and setting.
Monitor and manage production metrics to ensure targets are met across all hatchery systems.
Conduct and supervise microscopic inspection of larvae; assess health and make real-time management decisions.
Manage water quality monitoring programs and respond proactively to system anomalies.
Coordinate tidal water collection schedules and ensure systems are optimally supplied.
Troubleshoot equipment failures, system breakdowns, and biological challenges.

Team Leadership

Directly supervise hatchery Technicians and Senior Hatchery Technicians; coordinate daily task assignments.
Train new staff in hatchery protocols, safety procedures, and production standards.
Support a culture of accountability, precision, and continuous improvement.
Step in as acting Hatchery Manager during planned and unplanned absences.

Data & Administration

Maintain and improve production records, health logs, and data tracking systems.
Assist in developing and refining standard operating procedures.
Contribute to planning and forecasting larval production cycles.
Communicate operational updates and issues clearly to the Hatchery Manager and leadership team.
The Assistant Hatchery Manager is expected to lead from the floor. The role demands the same physical capacity as any position in the hatchery, as a typical day involves:
Lifting and carrying 50-100+ lbs. repeatedly.
Extended periods of physical labor followed by precise, focused technical work.
Climbing stairs and ladders multiple times per day.
Working in wet, humid environments and outdoors in all weather conditions.

Requirements

Minimum 3-5 years of progressive experience in a commercial shellfish hatchery or comparable aquaculture facility.
Demonstrated competency in larval rearing, algae culture, broodstock conditioning, and water quality management.
Strong microscopy skills; confident in assessing larval health and developmental progression.
Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team.
Experience with production record-keeping and data-driven management.
Sound judgment and the ability to make decisions quickly under pressure.
Willingness to work in both indoor and outdoor environments during all seasons depending on the needs of the facility.
Reliable transportation to and from work.
A BS in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Biology, or a closely related field is required. A Master’s degree or equivalent depth of professional experience is a plus.

Schedule

Peak hatchery season runs roughly from January to June. Water collection, feeding schedules, and animal health do not follow normal business hours. This role requires full availability during peak season, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. The schedule is dictated by the animals and the tides, and requires flexibility and reliability.

Fisheries Biologist / Laboratory Technician – Field & Laboratory Support- job post

Lynker Corporation

Overview:

Lynker Corporation is seeking to hire two (2) Fisheries Biologists to support a contract with NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC), Integrated Ecosystem Research Program (IERP). This is a full-time position based in Juneau, AK, with field work to be conducted in Alaska marine environments. The positions are anticipated to begin on September 30, 2026. Hiring for this position will be contingent on contract award. Lynker will be operating under its FLOAT joint venture, a NOAA ProTech Fisheries 2.0 prime contract holder.*

AFSC conducts fisheries oceanographic research to understand how environmental variability affects commercially important species such as salmon, groundfish, and crab. This position will support both laboratory-based sample processing and participation in field surveys. Tasks will involve sample processing of crab, fish, and zooplankton including: sample collection, inventories, laboratory analyses, and data entry.

Tasks

Inventory biological samples arriving at the laboratory
Measure length and weight of organisms
Remove otoliths and collect tissue samples (e.g., genetics, isotopes)
Remove stomachs and tissues for diet and energetic analyses
Homogenize samples for laboratory processing
Prepare samples for lipid and isotope analysis
Analyze fish with PARR Instrument Company semi-microbomb calorimeter for energy density
Participate in research surveys aboard vessels
Assist with biological and oceanographic sampling, including CTD operations
Record and enter laboratory and field data
Perform quality control checks on collected data

Deliverables

Processed biological samples and associated data files
Laboratory data files and documentation
Field sampling support during surveys
Monthly progress reports summarizing work performed, issues encountered, and recommendations

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or coursework in fisheries, marine biology, oceanography, or related field
0–3+ years of relevant laboratory and/or field experience
Ability to follow established laboratory and field protocols
Strong organizational and data management skills

Place of Performance

Work will be performed on-site at the AFSC Auke Bay Laboratories in Juneau, AK, with travel to support field surveys and sampling.

Travel

Travel is required to support research surveys and field activities in Alaska.