NMFS Certified Protected Species Observer PSO

Benefits:

Competitive salary

Protected Species Observer (PSO) – Sparrows Point Container Terminal Project Apply Today

REMSA, Inc. is seeking experienced, NMFS‑qualified Protected Species Observers (PSOs) to support marine mammal monitoring for the Sparrows Point Container Terminal (SPCT) Project in Baltimore County, Maryland. This multi‑year project includes pile‑driving, dredging, and construction of a new container terminal within the Patapsco River. PSOs will support compliance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS requirements, and the project‑specific Marine Mammal Monitoring Plan (MMMP).

Project Overview

Construction of a new marginal wharf

Installation of approx. 1,517 steel piles using vibratory and impact hammers

Marine mammal monitoring during all pile‑driving activities

Monitoring of Level A Shutdown Zones and Level B Harassment Zones

Long‑term construction over 2–3 years

Responsibilities

Conduct marine mammal monitoring during pile‑driving and dredging

Monitor Level A Shutdown Zones and visible Level B Harassment Zones

Perform 30‑minute pre‑activity, continuous active, and 30‑minute post‑activity monitoring

Implement shutdown procedures when marine mammals enter exclusion zones

Maintain real‑time communication with contractor environmental staff

Collect and document marine mammal observations

Prepare daily logs and compliance documentation

Support weekly and annual reporting

Operate binoculars, spotting scopes, range finders, GPS units, and night‑vision equipment

Support environmental compliance oversight as needed

Qualifications

Required:

Must be a U.S. Based citizen, with Valid TWIC Card (REQUIRED)

Meet NMFS Protected Species Observer qualification requirements

Experience conducting marine mammal monitoring (pile‑driving or dredging preferred)

Experience with environmental compliance oversight

Ability to identify marine mammals and behaviors in the field

Strong communication skills with construction teams

Experience preparing environmental compliance reports & monitoring Documents

Ability to work independently in active marine construction environments

Ability to conduct land‑based monitoring from designated observation points

Preferred:

Experience monitoring Level A Shutdown and Level B Harassment Zones

Experience supporting NMFS Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) projects

Marine construction monitoring experience

Federal contractor experience

Degree in marine biology, biological sciences, environmental science, wildlife biology, or related field

Required Skills

Marine mammal identification

Environmental compliance documentation

Real‑time communication

Data collection and reporting

GPS, range finder, binocular, and spotting scope operation

Night‑vision monitoring

Technical report preparation

Schedule

Seasonal variability

Seven (7)‑day work weeks during peak monitoring

Daylight monitoring standard

Occasional dusk/night monitoring when pile installation extends beyond daylight

Work Environment

Outdoor work in active marine construction settings

Land‑based shoreline observation points

Exposure to weather and marine conditions

Extended periods of standing and visual monitoring

Coordination with construction crews and environmental compliance personnel

Reports To

Environmental Compliance Manager / REMSA Project Management Team

Qualified candidates with marine mammal monitoring experience are encouraged to apply immediately for upcoming deployment opportunities.

Candidates meeting the above qualifications must submit the following for consideration:

Current Resume

Certified NMFS

Relevant Monitoring Experience

Please email all required documents to and use the subject line "NMFS PSO Candidate-(Your full name). Incomplete packages will not be considered.