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Aquaculture Technician

Also known as Fisheries Technician.

Aquaculture technicians are involved in freshwater and marine farming and hatchery management, as well as research into farmed species.

They can be involved in equipment design, site development and research, and the harvesting, processing and shipment of products.

Aquaculture technicians work outdoors in all kinds of weather. They may also work in a hatchery or laboratory.

The work can be located in isolated areas and heavy lifting may be required.

Shiftwork is common, including on weekends and public holidays.

TASKS

Aquaculture technicians may perform the following tasks:

breed and raise marine organisms such as fish, eels, crustaceans, shellfish, pearl-producing shellfish, algae, crocodiles and turtles in artificial conditions
identify common diseases in fish and shellfish, and take the necessary steps to prevent problems that may occur in intensive farming
assist with experiments relating to nutrition or methods of controlling predators, parasites and other disease-causing organisms
monitor the environment using oxygen meters, salinity meters, pH (acidity) meters and water chemistry analysis kits
maintain live feed and algae cultures
keep records of breeding, production and treatment programmes
develop and implement systems of profitable farm management

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

a practical approach to work
enjoy science
good observational skills
enjoy outdoor work
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
aptitude for working with computers

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an aquaculture technician you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in aquaculture. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become an aquaculture technician through a traineeship in Aquaculture.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Aquaculture technicians can be employed in a range of positions, including as a fish farm worker, fish farm nutritionist and hatchery or pond technologist. They may work as owner-managers of aquaculture farms or find employment with state and territory fishery authorities, tertiary institutions, industrial organisations, private hatcheries and fish farms or research organisations such as the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).