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A graphic of a person in a small boat pulling up a net full of fish.

Aquaculture Technician

Job Sector: Agriculture and Natural Resources

Potential Salary (USD):

Low End: $25,000.00 /yr
Avg/Med: $60,000.00 /yr
High End: $120,000.00 /yr

Education Required:

  • Bachelor of Aquaculture and Fisheries, or
  • Diploma of Aquaculture and Fisheries Technology, or
  • Bachelor of Agriculture with Aquaculture Specialization

Job Outlook:

As global demand for seafood continues to grow, the aquaculture industry is expanding rapidly. This growth creates steady demand for skilled technicians to ensure sustainable and efficient operations. In addition to food production, opportunities are increasing in conservation-focused aquaculture, such as restoring fish populations and ecosystems.

Career Profile Overview:

Aquaculture Technicians work in the cultivation and harvesting of aquatic organisms, such as fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants, for commercial, recreational, and conservation purposes. They are integral to the growing field of aquaculture, contributing to sustainable food production and the restoration of aquatic ecosystems. These technicians are involved in a variety of tasks, from monitoring water quality to managing the health and growth of aquatic species.

A close-up shot of a fishing net filled with small fish caught near the shore. The net is held up, showing the densely packed fish, highlighting fishing activity and potential overfishing issues.
A number of scientist standing around a large blue grid shaped fish catching system.

Aquatic Animal Care:

  • Feed and monitor the health and growth of fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms.

Water Quality Management:

  • Test and maintain optimal water quality conditions, including pH, temperature, and oxygen levels.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance:

  • Operate and maintain aquaculture systems, such as tanks, pumps, and filtration systems.

Harvesting and Processing:

  • Assist in the harvesting, cleaning, and processing of aquaculture products for distribution or sale.

Record Keeping:

  • Document data on growth rates, water quality, and feed usage to monitor productivity and identify areas for improvement.

Disease Prevention:

  • Identify and manage issues such as diseases, parasites, and stressors that affect aquatic organisms.

Educational Path:

  • High School: Focus on coursework in biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
  • Postsecondary: Many positions require a certificate or associate degree in aquaculture, fisheries science, or marine biology.
  • Advanced Degrees: May require a bachelor’s degree in aquaculture, marine biology, or a related field.

Certifications:

  • HACCP Certification: For managing food safety in aquaculture operations.
  • SCUBA Certification: Useful for technicians working in marine or underwater environments.
  1. Entry-Level:
    • Aquaculture Technician:$30,000 – $40,000 annually (USD)
    • Hatchery Assistant:$28,000 – $38,000 annually (USD)
    • Fish Farm Laborer: $25,000 – $35,000 annually (USD)
  2. Mid-Level:
    • Aquaculture Manager: $50,000 – $70,000 annually (USD)
    • Water Quality Specialist: $45,000 – $60,000 annually (USD)

    • Fish Health Technician:       $40,000 – $55,000 annually (USD)
  3. Senior-Level:
    • Aquaculture Facility Director: $80,000 – $120,000 annually (USD)
    • Marine Biologist (Aquaculture Focus): $70,000 – $100,000 annually (USD)
    • Aquaculture Consultant: $75,000 – $110,000 annually (USD)

(Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and specific employer)

  • Proficiency in operating aquaculture equipment and systems.
  • Ability to monitor animal health and identify signs of stress or disease.
  • Aptitude for troubleshooting issues related to water quality, equipment, or animal health.
  • Collaboration with other technicians, biologists, and managers.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in outdoor or aquatic environments.
  • Works well in a team environment to maintain facility operations.
  • Awareness of eco-friendly practices and reducing the environmental impact of aquaculture.

United States:

  1. University of Maine
  2. Oregon State University
    • Program: Bachelor’s in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences with Aquaculture Focus
    • Website: Oregon State
  3. Auburn University
    • Program: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Aquaculture and Fisheries
    • Website: Auburn University

Canada:

  1. Vancouver Island University (VIU)
    • Program: Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology Diploma
    • Website: VIU
  2. Memorial University of Newfoundland (Marine Institute)
    • Program: Advanced Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture
    • Website: Marine Institute
  3. Dalhousie University (Faculty of Agriculture)
    • Program: Aquaculture Specialization within Bachelor of Agriculture
    • Website: Dalhousie
Four large round fish catching devices float in a large body of water in an inlet.
Rolling waves along a beach with rocky cliffs in the distance

Resources and Further Reading: