Job Postings - 2026 At-Sea Fishery Observer Salmon ASOP
Project:
Commercial Salmon At-Sea Observer Program
Job Description:
Designated at-sea fishery observers are required for the 2026 commercial salmon season to monitor and verify catch encounters aboard fishing vessels. At-sea observers provide accurate, timely, and independent third party verification of commercial catch encounters.
The at-sea observer will:
Work aboard fishing vessels
Communicate with fishermen and industry representatives
Identify all Pacific Salmon species
Observe fishing sets and record catch encounters
Calculate piece counts
Report catch results
Report occurrences
Collect biological samples
Terms of Employment:
Seasonal contract term
Available for weekday, weekend, day and evening shifts
Must be available throughout the duration of the fishery
Must be eligible to work in Canada and be able to provide documentation
Have your own transportation to get to and from points of embarkation.
Wage:
Training and Examination:
Mandatory training and examination will be provided by J.O. Thomas and Associates.
Work Period:
Mid-August through September.
Location:
Embark from Metro Vancouver.
Requirements:
Legally eligible to work in Canada.
MED A1 (Marine Emergency Duties) certification equivalent or higher.
ROC-M Radio Operators Certification-Marine an asset.
First aid OFA Level 1 an asset.
Be physically fit and able to meet the physical requirements of the job including but not limited to climbing ladders and boarding fishing vessels.
DFO Regional Director General Designation Requirements:
Legally eligible to work in Canada.
Evidence of a Criminal Record Check is required.
Successfully complete a DFO-approved Dockside Observer training program with a pass mark of 75% in each module.
Have no significant financial interest in a commercial fishing business that harvests, processes, or sells commercial fishery products.
Education:
High school graduation or equivalent knowledge base is required.
A degree, diploma, or technical training in areas of natural resource management, biology, zoology, environmental science, aquaculture, conservation management, etc. is preferred, but not limiting.
Credentials:
Required Duties and Skills:
Identify Pacific Salmon species.
Collect biological data effectively and efficiently.
Safely work aboard active fishing vessels in a fast paced and dynamic environment.
Communicate with fishery managers, fisheries officers, industry representatives, vessel crew and fish plant workers.
Observe and report work procedures.
Record data/results and occurrences.
Additional Assets:
Not prone to seasickness.
Flexible and responsive to change.
Work and think independently in a fast-paced environment.
Report results efficiently and promptly.
Respond positively to changing and late notice schedules.
Comfortable working around docks and vessels.
An Android compatible phone is an asset.
Work Conditions and Physical Capabilities:
Workplace awareness is essential as at-sea observations take place aboard active fishing vessels and in industrial environments. Fishing operations can be fast-paced, loud, wet, and highly active with industrial machinery such as water pumps, and hydraulic cable lifts used during fishing activities in various weather conditions. Long work hours can be expected.
Transport of sampling equipment and/or biological samples to and from offload sites may be required. Physical requirements may also include but are not limited to ascending/descending ladders, boarding fishing vessels, and working with loads between 20lbs to 40lbs.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume via email to [email protected]. Candidates applying with cover letter and resume will be prioritized. Shortlisted candidates will be notified.
