Lynker Corporation, in strategic partnership with Fisheries Immersed Science Hawaii (FISH) as the FLOAT – the "FISH" and "Lynker" Ocean Alliance Team Joint Venture, is seeking motivated Marine Mammal/Sea Turtle Observer to join interdisciplinary field teams on vessel- and small boat-based research surveys for NOAA’s ProTech Fisheries 2.0 program. Employment in this role is contingent upon FLOAT being awarded the contract by NOAA.

Responsibilities

• Conduct systematic visual surveys for marine mammals, using mounted and hand-held binoculars per NOAA protocols (line-transect and other established methodologies).
• Accurately record, verify, and summarize sighting data, including species identification, group size, and animal behavior, using field software (e.g., VisCruz, WinCruz) and data sheets as instructed.
• Capture high-quality photographs of sightings and contribute to photo-ID and data archiving efforts.
• Assist in collection and processing of tissue biopsy samples from small boats or vessels as authorized/trained.
• Support deployment, tracking, or recovery of survey equipment (acoustic systems, tags, cameras, field sensors).
• Participate in small-boat operations—including launching and recovery, gear preparation, animal tracking, sample collection, and safety protocols.
• Complete accurate, timely data entry and daily QA/QC review of observations, photographs, and field records.
• Engage and collaborate courteously with multidisciplinary teams, vessel crews, project leadership, and field partners in a safety-oriented manner in challenging field environments.
• Contribute to daily briefings, safety meetings, and field logistics as directed; assist with gear setup/breakdown, supply inventory, and reporting.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in marine biology, zoology, ecology, oceanography, environmental science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 months cumulative experience serving as a marine mammal observer from large (>100 ft.) vessels (including use of big-eye binoculars for up to 40 minutes per shift), or equivalent experience in comparable programs.
• Familiarity with U.S. marine mammal species identification, line-transect methodologies, and visual survey protocols.
• Demonstrated competency in field data management, biological record-keeping, and operation of electronic or paper survey logs.
• Physical ability to conduct visually demanding fieldwork (standing/watching for up to 40 minutes), lift 40 lbs, and work at sea, in small boats, or in the field for extended durations—including variable weather and rotating shifts.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to follow and enforce protocols, and work both independently and as a collaborative team member.
• Willingness and ability to obtain all NOAA/contract-required medical clearances, background/security checks, and safety certifications (including emergency training, drug screening, etc.).

Preferred:

• Experience with tissue biopsy/sample collection, photographic documentation, and digital data processing.
• Proficiency with survey data entry software (e.g., VisCruz, WinCruz, VizSurvey) and experience on NMFS/NOAA marine mammal surveys.
• Cross-training in field support functions (e.g., assistance with acoustic surveys, sample processing, equipment troubleshooting).

Work Environment:

These duties require frequent travel, multi-week at-sea deployment, and work in remote/marine environments. Irregular hours, nighttime/shift work, and variable weather should be expected.

About Lynker

Lynker Corporation is a leading provider of innovative solutions in fisheries, marine science, and environmental research. With a commitment to scientific excellence and resource stewardship, Lynker leverages technical expertise and advanced field operations to support the management and conservation of aquatic resources and protected species. environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. We are a growing, employee-owned small business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement. We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities – creatively and effectively.

Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:

• Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
• Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
• Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
• Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
• 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – we're all company owners!
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Life and accident insurance
• Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement
• Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
• Employee Referral Program
• Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
• Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

*This position is advertised through our joint venture, FLOAT—a partnership between Lynker and Fish, serving NOAA ProTech Fisheries.

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.