About this opportunity
REMSA lists this NMFS Certified Protected Species Observer PSO opportunity in baltimore, Maryland. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Benefits:
nCompetitive salary
nProtected Species Observer (PSO) – Sparrows Point Container Terminal Project Apply Today
nREMSA, 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).
nProject Overview
nConstruction of a new marginal wharf
nInstallation of approx. 1,517 steel piles using vibratory and impact hammers
nMarine mammal monitoring during all pile‑driving activities
nMonitoring of Level A Shutdown Zones and Level B Harassment Zones
nLong‑term construction over 2–3 years
nResponsibilities
nConduct marine mammal monitoring during pile‑driving and dredging
nMonitor Level A Shutdown Zones and visible Level B Harassment Zones
nPerform 30‑minute pre‑activity, continuous active, and 30‑minute post‑activity monitoring
nImplement shutdown procedures when marine mammals enter exclusion zones
nMaintain real‑time communication with contractor environmental staff
nCollect and document marine mammal observations
nPrepare daily logs and compliance documentation
nSupport weekly and annual reporting
nOperate binoculars, spotting scopes, range finders, GPS units, and night‑vision equipment
nSupport environmental compliance oversight as needed
nQualifications
nRequired:
nMust be a U.S. Based citizen, with Valid TWIC Card (REQUIRED)
nMeet NMFS Protected Species Observer qualification requirements
nExperience conducting marine mammal monitoring (pile‑driving or dredging preferred)
nExperience with environmental compliance oversight
nAbility to identify marine mammals and behaviors in the field
nStrong communication skills with construction teams
nExperience preparing environmental compliance reports & monitoring Documents
nAbility to work independently in active marine construction environments
nAbility to conduct land‑based monitoring from designated observation points
nPreferred:
nExperience monitoring Level A Shutdown and Level B Harassment Zones
nExperience supporting NMFS Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) projects
nMarine construction monitoring experience
nFederal contractor experience
nDegree in marine biology, biological sciences, environmental science, wildlife biology, or related field
nRequired Skills
nMarine mammal identification
nEnvironmental compliance documentation
nReal‑time communication
nData collection and reporting
nGPS, range finder, binocular, and spotting scope operation
nNight‑vision monitoring
nTechnical report preparation
nSchedule
nSeasonal variability
nSeven (7)‑day work weeks during peak monitoring
nDaylight monitoring standard
nOccasional dusk/night monitoring when pile installation extends beyond daylight
nWork Environment
nOutdoor work in active marine construction settings
nLand‑based shoreline observation points
nExposure to weather and marine conditions
nExtended periods of standing and visual monitoring
nCoordination with construction crews and environmental compliance personnel
nReports To
nEnvironmental Compliance Manager / REMSA Project Management Team
nQualified candidates with marine mammal monitoring experience are encouraged to apply immediately for upcoming deployment opportunities.
nCandidates meeting the above qualifications must submit the following for consideration:
nCurrent Resume
nCertified NMFS
nRelevant Monitoring Experience
nPlease email all required documents to and use the subject line "NMFS PSO Candidate-(Your full name). Incomplete packages will not be considered.
Worksite address
baltimore, MD, 21276, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.