Marine Biologist (At‑Sea Monitor) – Gloucester, MA

About the role

We are seeking motivated Marine Biologists to serve as At‑Sea Monitors (ASM) on commercial fishing vessels operating out of Gloucester, MA. In this field‑based position you will collect and record biological data that supports federal and state fisheries management and helps ensure sustainable marine resources.

Key responsibilities

• Board commercial vessels (20‑100 ft) for trips lasting 1‑14 days to observe gear deployment and fishing activities.
• Record detailed catch, discard, and incidental take information for groundfish, marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles.
• Collect biological samples and conduct fish, marine mammal, and sea‑turtle identification following standardized protocols.
• Participate in a three‑week paid, in‑person training program covering sampling methods, gear types, safety, and species identification.
• Submit accurate data to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center.

Required profile

• Willingness to spend multiple days at sea and work irregular hours.
• Physical ability to lift heavy equipment and operate safely in rough sea conditions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently on deck.

Required skills

• Fish species identification.
• Marine mammal and sea‑turtle identification.
• Knowledge of sampling protocols and biological collection techniques.
• Familiarity with gear types: trawl, gillnet, longline, handline.
• Data collection and recording.

What we offer

• Paid three‑week training with accommodations and meal reimbursement.
• Competitive compensation for at‑sea assignments.
• Opportunity to contribute to important fisheries research and advance a career in marine biology.