Welcome to A.I.S. Observers, Inc.

Fisheries Observers collect data onboard commercial fishing vessels. Observers collect weight estimates on species caught and discarded and take age structures such as scales and otoliths. They record information on the trip, vessel, and gear. Trips may be from one day to about fourteen days in length, depending on the port and fishery.

Observers are assigned to a specific port in our region (Maine to North Carolina) and are under the supervision of an Area Coordinator. Depending on the port, the observer can expect mostly short trips, multi-day trips, or a mixture of trip lengths.

Observers stationed in certain ports can expect to travel to other ports when fishing is slow. Observers work out of their residence, and are expected to complete an average of 12 sea days or more per month in orderto be considered full-time and eligible for benefits.

For a full description of the Fisheries Observer position click here.

Requirements

Candidates should have a four-year degree in Marine Biology or Biology. Consideration will be given for sea/fisheries experience
Candidates must be US or Canadian citizens or have been legal residents in the US for the last two years
Candidates must be willing to commit to the program for at least a year
Candidates must have their own transportation and a valid drivers license
Trainees must have a valid passport or proof of application.
Trainees must be certified in First Aid and CPR by the American Red Cross

To Apply

To apply for the next Marine Fisheries Observer training class, send your resume, list of biology courses, references and a cover letter describing your sea and fish experience, to this address.

Check to see if there is a training session scheduled by clicking here.