Veterans At Sea
Are you a U.S. veteran looking for an exciting and fulfilling career path? We want you to consider becoming a fisheries observer!
Welcome, veterans!
At NOAA Fisheries, we recognize the unique skills and dedication that military veterans bring to the table, and we’re excited to introduce you to the opportunity of becoming a fishery observer. Whether you’re exploring a new career after transitioning out of the military, or seeking a way to continue serving the nation, becoming a fishery observer offers a rewarding path that combines adventure, conservation, and vital scientific work.
Do you have what it takes?
What is NOAA Fisheries?
NOAA Fisheries, a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the U.S. Department of Commerce, is responsible for the stewardship of the nation's ocean resources and marine ecosystems. We provide vital services for the nation, all backed by sound science and an ecosystem-based approach to management, including sustainable fisheries, safe sources of seafood, and the conservation and recovery of protected species.
Who are fishery observers?
NOAA Fisheries contracts with or certifies private observer provider companies to recruit, hire, and deploy observers in various regions. Observers serve as NOAA’s eyes and ears on the water. They are professionally trained biological technicians who work on U.S. commercial fishing vessels to collect crucial scientific data on everything caught and discarded during fishing trips.
As the sole scientist onboard in most cases, observers play a vital role in monitoring marine resources. They often have unique opportunities to travel to remote areas of the United States and deploy from various coastal fishing ports. While the job comes with challenges, such as difficult conditions at sea, the rewards of this unique career far outweigh the difficulties.
The best part? Anyone can become an observer—including U.S. military veterans!
Why should veterans become observers?
We value the unique skills and dedication that U.S. military veterans bring, making them exceptional candidates for our fisheries observer programs. With backgrounds in leadership, adaptability, and discipline, veterans are well equipped to handle life at sea.
Becoming an observer offers the opportunity to continue serving the nation, this time by contributing to the conservation of marine life. Observers are crucial in gathering data that informs sustainable fishing practices, and your contribution can have a direct impact on preserving the future of U.S. fisheries. If you're looking for a rewarding career that combines science, conservation, and adventure, becoming a fisheries observer is an excellent choice.
You can meet former veteran observers and learn about how their time observing led them to careers in fisheries science, law enforcement, and more.
What does life as an observer look like?
Observers work independently, where they witness marine species that most people only dream of seeing. Their work can keep them at sea for days, weeks or even months, with opportunities to explore nearly every corner of U.S. waters.
You can learn more about what a typical day in the life looks like for fishery observers across the country through our observer profiles and blogs.
Job and Application Requirements
To become a fishery observer, candidates must apply through one of the private observer provider companies that hold contracts with or are certified by NOAA Fisheries. Provider companies offer competitive wages and benefits commensurate with total days at sea.
Learn more about becoming an observer
Eligibility Criteria
Education
Typically, fishery observer applicants are required to have a 4-year degree; however, educational requirements can be waived for U.S. military veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs describes a veteran as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.
Physical and Medical Condition
Observer candidates must provide a physician’s certification that they do not have health or vision problems that would jeopardize their safety or the safety of others while at sea. They must have the capacity to perform strenuous physical labor, at times under arduous conditions.
Regional programs may have specific requirements. These can be reviewed online or by contacting those programs directly.
How do I create a resume?
Veterans will need to create a resume with unclassified duties in order to apply for a position as a fisheries observer. Be sure to highlight yourself as a U.S. military veteran at the top of your resume. This will make it easy to identify that your veteran status will supplement the educational requirement, if necessary.
Resources:
Fishery Observer Job Training
Even if you don’t have a background in marine science or data collection, all new fishery observers receive comprehensive training in a cohort after being selected through the application process and prior to their first deployment.
During an intensive 2- to 3-week training program, new observers will develop and hone essential skills. This program provides new observers with strong foundations in the areas of biology, species identification, data collection, fishing and safety regulations, and at-sea survival skills.
Experienced observers also attend regular safety briefings and professional development to keep their knowledge current.
Questions?
Contact fisheries.observer@noaa.gov.