Shellfish Farm Manager and Hatchery Technician

University of Maine System • Walpole, ME

3d

About The Position

The Shellfish Farm Manager and Hatchery Technician will work with members of the
Aquaculture Research Institute (ARI), School of Marine Sciences (SMS), and
collaborators in support of aquaculture related research activities based at the
Darling Marine Center (DMC) in Walpole, Maine. The integrated aquaculture
research programs at the DMC support full cycle aquaculture research for
bivalves and macroalgae from hatchery through grow out on a 1.7 acre
experimental farm located just off the field station’s waterfront.

This position will assist in supporting all facets of production and research.
During winter months, the Shellfish Farm Manager and Hatchery Technician will
work closely with the Hatchery Manager to support the cultivation and
maintenance of larval and juvenile shellfish as well as microalgal production.
During the remainder of the year, this position will manage the experimental
farm with assistance from ARI aquaculture specialists. Duties will include
overseeing animal and gear maintenance, coordination research projects on the
site, and assisting in data collection/experimental design at the DMC site and
collaborating partner farms.

The primary goal will be to support research and development efforts related to
shellfish including a breeding program for eastern oysters but work may include
other species including, sea scallops, razor clam, quahogs, bay scallops, and
any other species of interest. This position is located at the Darling Marine
Center in Walpole, Maine. Typical hiring range for this soft-money funded
position is $45,301 to $55,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, marine science, aquaculture, or a related field.
• At least three years of experience in culturing and maintaining shellfish or other aquatic organisms in a laboratory or controlled environment.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States within the timeline needed for the position start date.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with laboratory techniques and equipment used in algal culture, such as autoclaves, hoods, and sterile technique.
• Basic understanding of algal culture techniques, reproductive biology and shellfish culture are a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and compliance with laboratory regulations.
• Experience or familiarity with field research and small vessel operations around aquaculture farms.

Responsibilities

• support the cultivation and maintenance of larval and juvenile shellfish as well as microalgal production
• manage the experimental farm with assistance from ARI aquaculture specialists
• overseeing animal and gear maintenance
• coordination research projects on the site
• assisting in data collection/experimental design at the DMC site and collaborating partner farms
• support research and development efforts related to shellfish including a breeding program for eastern oysters but work may include other species including, sea scallops, razor clam, quahogs, bay scallops, and any other species of interest

Benefits

• The University of Maine offers a wide range of benefits for employees including, but not limited to, tuition benefits (employee and dependent), comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability as well as retirement plan options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees