Hatchery Technician

4 weeks ago

South Bend, Indiana, United States Aeros Cultured Oyster Company Full time
Job Description

Hatchery Technician

Job Responsibilities

As a Hatchery Technician at Aeros Cultured Oyster Company, you will be responsible for learning and familiarizing yourself with all aspects of shellfish cultivation, from algae cultivation to large seed nursery systems. You will develop competency in all aspects of algae production, including ensuring adequate feed for shellfish during all life cycle phases in the hatchery. You will regularly monitor algae cultures to ensure purity and determine cell concentration.

  • Concentrated training in algae cultivation from stock culture maintenance to mass culture production using a SeaCAPS cultivation system.
  • Concentrated training in post-set production in both the hatchery and land-based nursery system.
  • Learn to recognize when production levels are in line with production goals and when algae and seed production may be impacted by poor water quality or other threats to the algae cultures and animal health.
  • Broodstock management, spawning, and larval production.

Requirements

  • College education in a marine science curriculum.
  • Prefer a minimum of one year's experience in shellfish cultivation in a hatchery setting.

Additional Requirements

  • Comfortable working long hours (10+) during the height of the production season as well as weekends on a rotational schedule.
  • Ability to meet local travel demands of the company.
  • Able to lift 50 pounds.
  • Current driver's license with a clean driving record.

Skills

  • Experience in a lab setting.
  • Boat operation.
  • Record keeping with a meticulous attention to detail.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Comfortable with microscopic inspection of algae, larvae and post-set.
  • Computer/mobile application skills.
  • Basic plumbing and construction skills.
  • Ability to work in a small, tightly knit team environment.
  • SCUBA certification.

Compensation

  • Salary (starting at $55,000) commensurate with experience and education.
  • Participation in benefits package (healthcare and retirement savings plans) after probationary periods.