MRAG Americas Observer Programs
MRAG Americas is an independent consulting business dedicated to the accurate assessment and sustainable utilization of marine resources. Observer programs are an integral part of the sustainable management of many of these resources. As a result MRAG has engaged in recruiting biologists and placing them in data collection jobs with the fishing industry. MRAG Americas presently operates four observer programs. We have been a certified contractor for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Domestic Groundfish Observer Program and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) Shellfish Observer Program since 2005. In 2004, we began working with the Marine Mammal Observer Program in conjunction with the NMFS Protected Resources Division in Alaska. In 2006, MRAG was awarded the Hawaiian Longline Observer Contract, making MRAG the exclusive provider of observers for the Tuna and Swordfish Fisheries in Hawaii and American Samoa. MRAG also provided observers for small programs in New South Wales Australia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Please visit our Observer Program pages:
Hawaiian Longline and Samoan Fisheries Observer Program
NMFS Alaskan Groundfish Fisheries Observer Program
ADF&G Shellfish Fishery Observer Progam
Alaskan Marine Mammal Program
The work required of an observer is done on-board while fishing. This work requires observers to be self-motivated, able to diplomatically perform duties, collect the required data in often trying situations, and perform these tasks in potentially harsh weather. An observer must be flexible and creative as conditions, situations and duties vary from vessel to vessel, fishery to fishery.
Initial observer contracts are typically for three to four months, though some contracts will run longer in the Alaska Marine Mammal Program. After the initial contract period, there are seasonally dependant shorter periods of work. Observer opportunities are available year round in the Hawaiian fisheries; primarily from October through April in the Alaska Shellfish fishery; and primarily from March through October in the Alaska Groundfish program, through the fishery operates throughout the year. We are looking for motivated, responsible people interested in working multiple contracts over a one or more year period.
MRAG is a small corporation that believes in mutual aid and teamwork between management and employees. In the
ever-changing world of commercial fisheries management, observers are the front line. Our staff has been involved with the North Pacific and Hawaiian fisheries for many years as observers and program coordinators. We deal with our employees in a fair and just manner. MRAG has a current union contract for the Hawaiian Observer Program, in the North Pacific Observer Programs we are one of two
non-Union contractors. MRAG is an equal opportunity employer and we offer competitive pay and benefits for qualified employees.
For more information on how to join the MRAG family of observers click here.