Manatee & Marine Animal Observer

Gator Dredging - Manatee / Marine Animal Observer

Gator Dredging is looking for a dedicated Manatee / Marine Animal Observer deployed on our vessels or coastal sites to monitor the water, spot marine animals, and enforce environmental compliance during maritime operations. This important role requires previous work experience in marine animal observing. A completed 4-year degree in a relevant field (as listed below) is preferred. The position is specifically for the project and expected to operate for 4 to 6 months.

Starting Hourly Pay Range for This Position: $18.00 to $22.00. This is based on previous work experience and skill level.

Responsibilities for the Manatee / Marine Animal Observer:

- Visual Surveillance: Scan open waters day or night using polarized glasses (for day time shift) and the naked eye with spotlight (for night shift) for manatees, swimming sea turtles or other protected marine animals (i.e. dolphins, whales, etc.). This surveillance will be aboard a dredge vessel, work vessel or from shore.

- Issue alerts to halt or delay dredging operations when protected species enter a designated safety zone.

- Data Collection and Logging: Record species identification, group sizes, travel behavior, environmental conditions, and sighting coordinates into standardized field logs or reports.

- Clean and maintain the work area to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

- Perform other duties as required for Operations.

- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies.

Requirements for the Manatee / Marine Animal Observer:

Required (1 of the below is required, 2 is preferred):

- Prior on the job experience in monitoring for marine animals (manatees, swimming sea turtles, dolphins, etc.) on the Indian River Lagoon, Banana River or Atlantic Ocean bodies of water for marine construction related project (i.e. dredging is preferred, dock building, seawalls, beach renourishment, marine structures, etc.). Other bodies of water may be acceptable as well based on experience and education.

- Bachelor's degree in environmental related field (i.e. environmental science and policy, environmental studies, marine biology, oceanography, general biology, ecology, environmental engineering, or related fields)

Other Requirements or Desirable Experience:

- Must be able to spot in-water marine animals for up to 150 + feet.

- Physical and Field Readiness: Ability to work long shifts (8 to 12+ hours daily and up to 7 days per week) on a vessel and maintain vigilance for hours without fatigue.

- Applicant is able to work outside for an entire shift in all weather conditions (hot, humid, cold, wet) is required.

- Must be able to swim.

- Previous Dredging or Marine Construction experience are highly desirable.

- Must have your own reliable transportation to and from work.

- OSHA and Maritime Certifications are a plus.

- Boating or Equipment Certifications a plus.

- Be honest, hardworking, reliable, punctual and attitude to get the job done.

Physical Demands/Work Environment of the Manatee / Marine Animal Observer:

- Physical/Sensory Functions: Regularly will use sit, use hands, talk/hear; Frequently will reach with hands; Occasionally will stand, walk, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, taste/smell.

- Lift and/or Move Functions: Regularly will lift up to 10 pounds; Frequently will lift up to 25 pounds

Employee Benefits. An excellent compensation and benefits package is offered. Benefit plans include:

- Medical

- Dental

- Vision

- 401(k) Retirement Plan

- Life Insurance

- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance

- Paid Time Off for Vacation, Sick and Holidays

Gator Dredging is a:

- Drug-Free Workplace

- Equal Opportunity Employer

- Homeland Security- E-Verify Company . Gator Dredging will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States.

For more information, please visit www.gatordredging.com