Protected Species Observer (PSO) – Sparrows Point Container Terminal Project

REMSA, 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).

Project Overview

• Construction of a new marginal wharf
• Installation of approx. 1,517 steel piles using vibratory and impact hammers
• Marine mammal monitoring during all pile-driving activities
• Monitoring of Level A Shutdown Zones and Level B Harassment Zones
• Long-term construction over 2–3 years

Responsibilities

• Conduct marine mammal monitoring during pile-driving and dredging
• Monitor Level A Shutdown Zones and visible Level B Harassment Zones
• Perform 30-minute pre-activity, continuous active, and 30-minute post-activity monitoring
• Implement shutdown procedures when marine mammals enter exclusion zones
• Maintain real-time communication with contractor environmental staff
• Collect and document marine mammal observations
• Prepare daily logs and compliance documentation
• Support weekly and annual reporting
• Operate binoculars, spotting scopes, range finders, GPS units, and night-vision equipment
• Support environmental compliance oversight as needed

Qualifications

Required:

• Must be a U.S. Based citizen, with Valid TWIC Card (REQUIRED)
• Meet NMFS Protected Species Observer qualification requirements
• Experience conducting marine mammal monitoring (pile-driving or dredging preferred)
• Experience with environmental compliance oversight
• Ability to identify marine mammals and behaviors in the field
• Strong communication skills with construction teams
• Experience preparing environmental compliance reports & monitoring Documents
• Ability to work independently in active marine construction environments
• Ability to conduct land-based monitoring from designated observation points

Preferred:

• Experience monitoring Level A Shutdown and Level B Harassment Zones
• Experience supporting NMFS Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) projects
• Marine construction monitoring experience
• Federal contractor experience
• Degree in marine biology, biological sciences, environmental science, wildlife biology, or related field

Schedule

• Seasonal variability
• Seven (7)-day work weeks during peak monitoring
• Daylight monitoring standard
• Occasional dusk/night monitoring when pile installation extends beyond daylight

Work Environment

• Outdoor work in active marine construction settings
• Land-based shoreline observation points
• Exposure to weather and marine conditions
• Extended periods of standing and visual monitoring
• Coordination with construction crews and environmental compliance personnel