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

Aquaculture Technician

Job Sector:

Agriculture, Food 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 a 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 to cultivate and harvest 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 various 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 like 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 biology, chemistry, and environmental science coursework.
  • Postsecondary: Many positions require a certificate or associate degree in aquaculture, fisheries science, or marine biology.
  • Advanced Degrees: A bachelor’s degree in aquaculture, marine biology, or a related field may be required.

Certifications:

  • HACCP Certification: For managing food safety in aquaculture operations.
  • SCUBA Certification: This certification is useful for technicians working in marine or underwater environments.

Entry-Level:

  • Aquaculture Technician: Monitors and maintains aquatic animal systems.
  • Hatchery Assistant: Supports the breeding and early life stages of aquatic species.
  • Fish Farm Labourer: Performs daily manual tasks on a fish farm, including feeding, cleaning, and general maintenance.

Mid-Level:

  • Aquaculture Manager: Oversees all aspects of aquaculture operations, including production, staff, and facility management.
  • Water Quality Specialist: Analyzes and manages water parameters in aquaculture systems to optimize aquatic animal health and growth.
  • Fish Health Technician: Monitors and assesses the health of aquatic animals, implementing preventative measures and treating diseases.

Senior-Level:

  • Aquaculture Facility Director: Provides strategic leadership and comprehensive oversight for large-scale aquaculture operations.
  • Marine Biologist (Aquaculture Focus): Conducts research and applies scientific principles to understand and manage marine ecosystems and aquaculture.
  • Aquaculture Consultant: Provides expert advice and solutions to aquaculture businesses on various aspects, from planning to problem-solving.
  • Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating aquaculture equipment and systems.
  • Animal Care: Ability to monitor animal health and identify signs of stress or disease.
  • Problem Solving: Aptitude for troubleshooting water quality, equipment, or animal health issues.
  • Physical Endurance: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in outdoor or aquatic environments.
  • Teamwork: Works well in a team environment to maintain facility operations.
  • Sustainability: Awareness of eco-friendly practices and reducing the environmental impact of aquaculture.

United States:

University of Maine (Maine)

Oregon State University (Oregon)

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences with Aquaculture Focus
  • Website: Oregon State

Auburn University (Alabama)

  • Program: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Aquaculture and Fisheries
  • Website: Auburn University

Canada:

Vancouver Island University (British Columbia)

  • Program: Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology Diploma
  • Website: VIU

Memorial University of Newfoundland (Newfoundland)

  • Program: Advanced Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture
  • Website: Marine Institute

Dalhousie University (Nova Scotia)

  • Program: Aquaculture Specialization within the 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: