Protected Species Observer (PSO) – NMFS Unconditionally Certified (Hopper Dredge Experience Required)
REMSA, Inc.
Fort Mifflin, Philadelphia, PA, Pennsylvania
| Job Type | Temporary |
| Salary | $210 - $225 per day |
| Min. Experience | 2 - 4 years |
REMSA, Inc. is currently seeking experienced, NMFS Unconditionally Certified Protected Species Observers (PSOs) for upcoming environmental monitoring assignments aboard the Dredge McFarland in Fort Mifflin, Pennsylvania, as well as additional nearshore monitoring projects.
Qualified candidates must have prior hopper dredge observer experience and demonstrated experience conducting marine mammal and protected species monitoring in active dredging and/or nearshore construction environments.
Observers will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all environmental monitoring requirements while coordinating directly with vessel personnel, contractors, and REMSA management.
Deployment Schedule
Observers must be available to arrive one (1) day prior to the scheduled deployment date.
Current deployment windows include:
- June 5–18, 2026 (Arrive June 4, 2026)
- July 3–16, 2026 (Arrive July 2, 2026)
- July 31–August 13, 2026 (Arrive July 30, 2026)
- August 28–September 10, 2026 (Arrive August 27, 2026)
- September 25–30, 2026 (Arrive September 24, 2026)
Primary Responsibilities
- Conduct Protected Species Observer (PSO) duties aboard hopper dredges and nearshore project sites
- Monitor for marine mammals, sea turtles, sturgeon, and other protected species in accordance with NMFS requirements
- Maintain detailed daily monitoring logs and reporting documentation
- Coordinate monitoring activities with vessel crews, contractors, and REMSA management personnel
- Ensure compliance with all project environmental monitoring protocols and permit conditions
- Submit accurate daily, weekly, and final monitoring reports as required
- Maintain professional conduct aboard federally contracted vessels and project sites
Minimum Qualifications
- Current NMFS Unconditional PSO Certification (Required)
- Prior hopper dredge experience as a Protected Species Observer (Required)
- Experience with dredging, pile driving, or nearshore marine construction projects preferred
- Ability to work extended offshore or vessel-based rotations
- Strong written communication and environmental reporting skills
- Familiarity with federal environmental compliance requirements
- Ability to work independently and in rotating monitoring schedules
- Valid TWIC card required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience aboard USACE or federally contracted dredging projects
- Nearshore pile driving or marine construction monitoring experience
- Experience conducting ESA-listed species monitoring and compliance coordination
To Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should submit the following:
- Availability for the listed deployment windows
- Updated resume
- Current NMFS certification status/documentation
- TWIC expiration date
Qualified applicants may be contacted for immediate deployment opportunities.
Applications should be emailed to:
When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.
| Category | Marine Biology , Wildlife |
| Tags | Marine Mammal |