Aquaculture or Fisheries Technician
SOC 19-4011 · ESCO 3142 · OSCA 311133
Role snapshot
Overview
Maintains fish farms or hatcheries by monitoring water quality, feeding stock, and treating disease. Collects samples, records growth data, and helps manage breeding cycles for sustainable aquatic production. This role is crucial for ensuring the health and productivity of aquatic organisms in controlled environments.
Contributes directly to sustainable food production and conservation efforts by managing aquatic ecosystems, ensuring healthy stock, and maintaining environmental balance in aquaculture operations.
On the job
- Monitor and test water quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and salinity.
- Prepare and administer feed to various aquatic species according to established schedules and dietary requirements.
- Observe aquatic stock for signs of disease, injury, or stress, and assist with treatment protocols.
- Collect biological samples (e.g., tissue, scales, water) and maintain accurate records of growth, health, and environmental data.
- Clean and maintain tanks, filtration systems, nets, and other equipment to ensure optimal operating conditions.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree in aquaculture, fisheries management, marine biology, or a related scientific field.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Aquaculture or Fisheries Technician
Agriculture & Food
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
realistic · RIS
People who enjoy hands-on work with living organisms, applying scientific principles, and maintaining structured environments tend to thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Curious
Interested in understanding aquatic ecosystems and learning new methods for animal care and production.
Diligent
Highly responsible and thorough in monitoring stock health, maintaining equipment, and adhering to protocols.
Independent
Comfortable working alone or in small teams, focused on practical tasks rather hand than extensive social interaction.
Cooperative
Works well with colleagues and follows instructions to ensure smooth farm operations and animal welfare.
Calm under pressure
Manages unexpected issues with aquatic stock or equipment without becoming overly stressed, maintaining focus on solutions.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy working with animals and contributing to sustainable food systems.
- Those who appreciate a mix of routine tasks and problem-solving in a practical, scientific context.
- People who thrive in semi-structured environments and are comfortable with hands-on responsibilities.
Watch out for
- The work environment can be physically demanding and often involves working outdoors or in wet conditions.
- Living organisms require consistent care, which may lead to occasional weekend work or irregular hours.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Aquaculture or Fisheries Technician — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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