Shellfish Positions AvailableSubmit your job opportunity in paragraph form to us by clicking here. Include job details in the body of the email or as an attachment. (.doc or .pdf). The 'posted' date is when the job was posted to THIS job board, not when the position opened.Announcements will be removed after 3 months unless otherwise indicated in the post. Aquaculture Facility Manager (Texas, USA): The Aquaculture Facilities Manager is responsible for facilities management of a research aquaculture facility focusing on genetics and breeding of eastern oysters and other species of commercial aquaculture interest in Texas and the wider United States. The successful candidate will effectively manage facility personnel while fostering an inclusive and collaborative team environment. The position requires strong attention to detail, self-motivation, resourcefulness, and excellent problem-solving skills. Responsibilities: Management, including maintenance and upkeep, of all systems involved in facility operations; Planning and oversight of day-to-day facility operation activities in conjunction with ongoing research projects and husbandry activities; Creating, disseminating, and refining schedules and plans related to facility projects with input from supervisor and research hatchery team; Working alongside research team to design, construct, improve, and maintain culture systems and develop innovative culture techniques; Coordinating the ordering of supplies and equipment with research team and coordinating facility repairs and upgrades with contractors; Supervision of facilities personnel; Maintaining high standards of safety, biosecurity, and cleanliness throughout the facility; Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local permitting and workplace regulations; Keeping accurate and well-organized records of maintenance work, water quality, animal systems, and other facility activities; Participating in and supporting research or husbandry activities as needed; Consulting with potential collaborators to determine feasibility of accommodating facility use; Communicating and addressing any damages or changes to facility systems that could potentially impact ongoing projects and activities; Perform other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience; Five years of related experience; A working knowledge of aquaculture facility equipment operation and maintenance (including plumbing, pumps, filtration systems, and heaters/chillers); Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications; Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others; Strong verbal and written communication skills; Strong organizational skills, including record keeping, scheduling, and planning; Ability to promptly respond to on-site emergency calls. Preferred Qualifications: At least one year of supervisory experience; Experience with the culture of bivalve species and phytoplankton; Experience in research or commercial-scale aquaculture operations and demonstrated competence with a variety of culture systems.Salary: Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications. Apply here: https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/System-wide_External/job/Corpus-Christi-TX/Aquaculture-Facility-Manager_R-091360 (posted 3/5/26) Faculty Research Assistant UMCES Horn Point Oyster Hatchery (Maryland, USA): The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science unleashes the power of science to transform the way society understands and manages the environment. By conducting cutting-edge research into today’s most pressing environmental problems, we are developing new ideas to help guide our state, nation, and world toward a more environmentally sustainable future through five research centers—the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, the Horn Point Laboratory in Cambridge, the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology in Baltimore, and the Maryland Sea Grant College in College Park. As one of the largest oyster hatcheries on the East Coast, the UMCES Horn Point Oyster Hatchery produces high-quality eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) larvae, spat-on-shell, and seed to support restoration, aquaculture, research, and education initiatives. Over the past three decades, oysters spawned at the Horn Point Laboratory have led to the deployment of more than 18 billion spat into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. These efforts have helped rebuild productive oyster bars, strengthen the regional fishery, and enhance the overall health and resilience of the Bay’s ecosystem. This position will involve assistance with all aspects of oyster hatchery duties for restoration and fishery activities. Duties include but are not limited to oyster broodstock conditioning, maintenance, spawning, larval rearing, spat production and settlement assessment, seed production, mass algae production, and long-line maintenance. Applicants should have the ability to multitask, as the hatchery is a fast-paced environment. Self- motivation, organization, and willingness to work productively are a must. Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Carry out daily maintenance of shellfish larval cultures, algal stocks, and spat tanks, Perform routine animal husbandry including spawning, larval counts, tank cleaning, spat counts, setting tank management, seed operations, long-line management and larval and algal culture maintenance, Assist with downweller, and upweller operations in the production of seed for industry needs; perform daily cleans of downweller and upweller silos, Set and grade seed, Maintain distinct genetic lines, Split, size, and redeploy oyster seed to prevent overcrowding and encourage growth, Interact with customers in a professional manner, Perform general maintenance and upkeep and assist with various projects as needed, Complete paperwork logs and maintain records as required, and Maintain hatchery safety at all times; comply with company health and safety guidelines. Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in biology, marine biology, aquaculture or other life sciences from an accredited University is required. One to two seasons of previous work or research focused on bivalves and animal husbandry. Flexibility to work holidays and weekends during the production season is required. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with oyster larval culture, settlement assessment, seed cultures, automated algal feeding systems, and database entry is strongly preferred. Attentive to details to ensure distinct genetic lines to maintain ploidy requirements. Physical Demands: Applicants should be able to lift 50 pounds and be able to work in a hot, humid, wet environment. Applicants must be able to climb in and out of tanks and work at a fast pace. Flexibility to work holidays and weekends during the production season is required. Required Application Materials: (1) cover letter describing relevant experience, interests and goals, (2) a current CV or resume, and (3) contact information for three references. SUBMIT ALL MATERIALS TO THE WORKDAY PLATFORM (posted 2/27/26) Executive Director, Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference (Virginia, USA): The Executive Director is responsible for implementing policies adopted by the ISSC voting membership, managing daily operations, overseeing staff and contractors, and ensuring effective coordination with FDA and partner agencies. The role requires strong leadership in consensus-based governance, exceptional communication skills, and a deep appreciation for both the public health mandate and the operational realities of shellfish production. Key Responsibilities: Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for ISSC programs, committees, and biennial conferences; Implement policies, resolutions, and action items adopted by the ISSC membership; Serve as the primary liaison between ISSC, FDA, state shellfish control authorities, industry representatives, and other partners; Support the work of ISSC Executive Board (i.e Board of Directors), committees, task forces, and regional affiliates, ensuring transparency and follow-through; Oversee budget development, financial management, contracts, and grants; Supervise ISSC staff and consultants and support a collaborative, high-functioning team; Coordinate meeting logistics, communications, records, and official guidance documents; Represent ISSC in national and regional forums related to shellfish sanitation, food safety, and public health. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s or advanced degree in political science, public health, natural resources management, law, or related field; Minimum of 6 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, regulatory advocacy, or related roles; Experience working with food safety, environmental, agricultural, or natural resources policy preferred (aquaculture or fisheries experience a plus); Demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships with elected officials, agency staff, community leaders, Tribal governments, and industry stakeholders; Excellent negotiation and advocacy skills with strong political acumen and a professional demeanor; Regulatory experience, including crafting regulatory language with scientific support in a way to ensure the regulations are able to be implemented; Proven ability to influence and collaborate across diverse internal teams; Strong organizational skills, project management abilities, and attention to detail; Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience supporting technical committees, policy development and crafting regulations; Experience managing budgets, grants, and contracts; Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort using remote collaboration tools (e.g., Teams, Zoom). Additional Desired Attributes: Experience working with interstate or national organizations, commissions, or non-profits; Demonstrated leadership experience in a complex, multi-stakeholder organization; Familiarity with shellfish sanitation, seafood safety, aquaculture, environmental health, or related regulatory frameworks; Proven ability to facilitate consensus among regulators, industry, and public health professionals; Strong understanding of federal–state coordination, including experience working with FDA or state regulatory agencies; Ability to translate technical and regulatory information for diverse audiences; Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities; Professional credibility and diplomacy in high-stakes regulatory and policy discussions; Appreciation for the economic, cultural, and regional diversity of the U.S. shellfish industry. Salary range is $100,000- $125,000 plus benefits package with paid personal and annual leave, life and health insurance, savings and investment plan (401-K type). The ISSC Office is currently located in Richmond, Virginia. The Executive Director work location is flexible and remote work arrangements may be negotiated for qualified candidates. Frequent intermittent domestic travel required to support this role (up to 25%). Interested candidates are asked to submit an application that details their ability to successfully accomplish the work described in this announcement. The application must include a resume, cover letter, and three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Materials are to be submitted via email, with the subject line reading “Application for ISSC Executive Director” to [email protected]. The position will remain open until it is filled, and the first review of applications will occur no later than March 15, 2026. Please direct questions to: Keith Skiles, [email protected], 804-330-6380. (posted 2/24/26) Microalgae Production Lead / Microalgae Technician (Washington State, USA): Puget Sound Restoration Fund (PSRF) is seeking a Microalgae Production Lead or Technician (level will be determined based on experience, technical expertise, and leadership capacity) to join our team at the Kenneth K. Chew Center for Research and Restoration (Chew Center), operated at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Manchester Research Station in Manchester, Washington on the Kitsap Peninsula. The position is responsible for the cultivation, maintenance, and monitoring of microalgae cultures to support hatchery production, research, and restoration. This role ensures reliable, high-quality algal feedstock through sterile technique, culture scaling, and environmental monitoring. The employee will work both independently and collaboratively to maintain culture health, support larval rearing operations, and contribute to laboratory operations and data collection. The role supports accurate production tracking and well-organized hatchery facilities, requires strong attention to detail, effective communication skills, and the ability to complete physically demanding work in indoor and outdoor environments. The PSRF is a small, collaborative organization where staff support one another to ensure shared success. As we grow and evolve each time we bring on new team members, we seek to integrate the technician’s existing skills and talents into the role. The ideal candidate is passionate about marine conservation, comfortable working in an aquaculture production setting, and committed to seeing tasks through to accurate and timely completion. Core responsibilities: Microalgae Production & Culture Management, Provide husbandry support for Olympia oyster production, Facilities & Systems Maintenance, Research & Field Operations Support, and Bull Kelp Restoration Program Support. Required qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in marine biology, environmental science, aquaculture, or related field; or 4 years of equivalent hands-on experience; Experience working in an aquaculture, laboratory, or hatchery setting; Experience with microalgae culturing and sterile transfer protocols; Understanding of biosecurity principles, contamination prevention, detection, and mitigation in algal cultures; Strong interest in marine ecosystems, aquaculture, environmental restoration, and conservation; Ability to perform specialized laboratory tasks for technical or diagnostic purposes; Excellent attention to detail with the ability to follow detailed protocols and standard operating procedures (SOP) while ensuring quality control standards are met; Strong record keeping and data management skills; Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team, contributing to an inclusive and accessible work environment; Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to perform accurate data recording; Ability to use standard office equipment, including computers and related data management software; Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation; Federal Facility Requirement: Must be a U.S. citizen, as work is conducted at a federal facility. Successful candidates will be required to pass a federal background investigation, possess a valid REAL ID or other acceptable federal ID (e.g., a passport) and obtain government security clearance prior to beginning employment at the Chew Center. Continued employment is contingent upon maintaining clearance. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with marine or aquatic organism care or culture, and/or marine aquaculture; familiarity with relevant marine taxonomy is a plus; Knowledge of animal husbandry methods and techniques, including animal identification and breeding; experience with laboratory animal research and data collection protocols; Demonstrated experience with microscopy and standard laboratory equipment, operations, and sterilization procedures; Knowledge of lab safety and chemical handling; Experience leading or supervising teams, interns, volunteers, or junior staff; Mechanically inclined with experience using hand and power tools; ability to assist with building, maintaining, and troubleshooting culture systems, plumbing, pumps, and hatchery equipment, including routine repairs. For more information, https://restorationfund.org/aboutus/join_our_team/. To apply, please email a resume and cover letter (both required) to [email protected] by March 5, 2026. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Elsa Schwartz, Deputy Director, at [email protected]. (posted 2/20/26) Oyster Farm Operations Lead (Maine, USA): Deer Isle Oyster Company is seeking a motivated, reliable, highly organized and energetic Oyster Farm Operations Lead to oversee day-to-day farming operations. This management role entails tracking and maintaining seed stock, sorting, culling, and grading oysters, as well as managing biofouling and landing market-sized product. The Operations Lead will work with a farm crew of 2-3 individuals and is expected to exhibit excellent communication, safety awareness, strong prioritization skills, and compassionate leadership. Candidates who can adapt and problem-solve effectively in a fast-paced environment are valued. The position entails 5-day, 40-hour workweeks from March/April through December, with potential for year-round employment based on performance. Key Responsibilities: Safely run a variety of outboard workboats; Lead a 2-3 person farm crew with a focus on safety, productivity & team harmony; Communicate effectively with the Events Coordinator, Chief Operations Officer and Owner about farm harvest, operations and needs; Operate processing equipment on the oyster float, including solar powered tumbler and pumps; Plan daily schedules around farm accessibility and seasonal needs; Raise and lower farm infrastructure in spring and fall; Deploy and sort oyster seed; Maintain appropriate stocking densities of oyster inventory on the farm; Adhere to state Vibrio regulations for safe oyster handling; Harvest market-ready oysters to meet company quality specifications; Prevent and manage biofouling on gear, equipment, and oysters; Conduct record-keeping for quality control, inventory, and farm maintenance; Utilize Google Suite and other applications for reporting, logging, and maintenance records; Repair, maintain, and keep inventory of gear as necessary; Support data collection for plastic-free aquaculture initiatives as required; Collaborate with the owner and COO to improve farm efficiency and evaluate new technologies; Support polyculture diversification. Qualifications: Minimum 2 years of experience working with and handling small boats (aquaculture farming experience preferred), Valid driver's license; Strong, clear communication skills; Ability to work independently and as part of a team; Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions from March to December; Physical capacity to work on your feet on the water, and lift/push/pull up to 50+ lbs; Willingness to live or relocate within a reasonable commuting distance to the farm; Experience steering and safely maneuvering 20-25’ boats with outboards (helm and tiller steering); Competency in rowing; Familiarity with operating and maintaining winches, haulers, and pumps. Preferred Skills and Traits: Highly organized and adaptable to new challenges; Troubleshooting skills and the ability to address issues quickly; Enthusiastic about outdoor work environments, sustainability, aquaculture, and small business; Capable of working both independently and collaboratively. How to Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected] (posted 1/24/26) Oyster Farmhand (Maine, USA): Deer Isle Oyster Company is seeking a hardworking, reliable, and enthusiastic farmhand to join our team for the upcoming season. This position involves a variety of hands-on tasks across our oyster and seaweed farm, and you'll have the opportunity to work outdoors, learn about aquaculture practices, and contribute to a growing, innovative business. Preferred April/May start with flexible end date, October-December. Key responsibilities include Oyster Farming: Harvest, sort, tumble, clean, bag, and wash/prepare oysters for market; assist with oyster delivery, deploy & flip gear as needed; Urchin & Kelp Farming: Harvest, grade process sugar kelp, tend/feed sea urchins; and Maintenance: Repair/build farm gear, maintain boats and equipment, and assist with the upkeep of the farm's shop & facilities. Requirements: Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (personal vehicle required); Comfortable working on the water and in all weather conditions; Ability to swim and do tedious, highly physical tasks in an exposed, outdoor setting; Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs over slippery and uneven surfaces; Willing to work long days/flexible hours & some weekends; Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn; Interest in aquaculture & sustainability practices; Ability to adapt to changing schedules and tasks in a fast-paced environment. Compensation & Benefits: Hourly wage with mid-season raise potential; Opportunity to learn about aquaculture, emerging species and sustainable farming practices; and Culled oysters available for personal consumption. Please send a brief cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected] (posted 1/24/26) Research Associate I (Marine Aquaculture) (Florida, USA): The Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science at the University of Miami is seeking a Research Associate I position to conduct activities for ongoing marine aquaculture research projects. Duties include:Feeding organisms (fish and bivalves), cleaning, and general maintenance; Microalgae culture and maintenance; Bivalve (Oyster) culture and maintenance; Macroalgae cultivation and maintenance; Data recording and reporting; Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) operation and maintenance; Larval rearing trials: set up, execution, data recording; Assisting in preparation of progress reports to the funding sources; Assist with capture, transport, acclimation, and management of UMEH broodstock organisms; Caring for various life stages of multiple marine species (fish, bivalves, micro- and macroalgae) housed at the UM – Rosenstiel School and in other projects UM Shellfish Hatchery Manager (Connecticut, USA): Ocean Associates Inc. (OAI) is seeking an applicant to provide shellfish hatchery management for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC), Milford Laboratory in Milford, CT. This position will provide support for the Northeast Oyster Breeding Center's Milford hatchery and its contributions to the Interagency agreement with USDA/ARS, essentially production of up to 100 separate oyster lines per year by June of each year. The position shall: Support Operation of the Northeast Oyster Breeding Center hatchery and nursery with logistical, organizational, and documentation responsibilities; Coordinate activities and interactions of project teams on a daily basis, including organizing team meetings and scheduling to accomplish spawning and rearing of multiple genetic oyster lines; Document all activities, including meeting notes, archiving of technical data, and budget summaries; Respond to quantitative data calls, including technical accomplishments, expenditures, and reporting of issues and solutions; Interface weekly with Agency managers to receive direction and report progress, once a week at minimum; Possess a valid US issued driver’s license and have the ability to drive a government vehicle; Extract and compile data on system performance and project accomplishments; Graphically portray summary data for presentation by project managers; Be aware of and enforce safety and environmental compliance rules; Maintain compliance with all labeling conventions; Understand safety procedures in the laboratory, handle chemicals, do basic chemical safety, and dispose of chemical reagents in compliance with state regulations; Correctly label chemicals and chemical hazardous waste; Assure use and updating as necessary of relevant SOP; Provide detailed laboratory notebooks of sample analysis when requested; Record data for all SOP on chemical analysis; Apply quality control to samples and troubleshoot common laboratory problems; Communicate system and equipment failures to facilities staff and project managers; Support coordinated interactions between lab staff, extension, and participating constituents; Participate in field trips to distribute seed oysters and information to participating constituents; Attend scientific and educational conferences to promote results and implications of assigned tasks; Present research material and network on current and future projects, verbally and in writing, including participation in preparation of peer-reviewed publications; Develop and monitor workflows for QA/QC of operations and research; Represent and resolve IT issues. Minimum requirements: Bachelor or graduate degree in management or technical field related to project organization and management; Logistical support of complex, technical projects, archiving and organizing technical data and QA/QC of data and graphical displays across various disciplines; Demonstrated ability to manage a production shellfish hatchery; Excellent verbal and written communication skills; Willingness to work as part of a research team; Proficient in using MS Word, MS Excel, MS Power Point, Google Suite and other software applications typically used in this line of work; Familiarity with shellfish rearing including oyster, life-history manipulation, and support system design and operation. Applicants should submit a resume that includes the following: Cover letter that briefly describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications listed; Work history for past 10 years or since last full-time education; Education; Previous experience or training with similar requirements; Three professional references; Include your name in the document file name; Upload your resume in readable, not scanned, PDF or Word format (PDF is preferred). For full job description and to apply: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=9a93435d-91d4-4a65-8a21-2de9187df1dd&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=605152&lang=en_US&source=CC2 (posted 12/19/25) |