Shellfish Positions Available

Submit 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.

Post Doc/Senior Research Assistants (Hong Kong): Hong Kong Oyster Hatchery and Innovation Research Unit (HKO_HIRU) at HKU, is seeking researchers to investigate stress-induced foodomics and their transgenerational expression, as well as the genomic selection of multiple stress-tolerant strains in Hong Kong oysters. Recently, we were awarded a highly competitive grant of over 7 million HKD from the Research Grants Council and the industry partner Lee Kum Kee Co. Ltd. under RIF Scheme.  This project focuses on genomic selection, microbiome analysis, and food chemistry in oysters from the South China region.These positions are available immediately. The primary goal of these positions is to 1) develop tools for genome-based breeding of the Hong Kong oyster, a major aquaculture species in China – which is accounting almost ¼ of global production. Specifically, we will focus on the application of SNP genotyping platform in genomic selection for high salinity tolerance, 2) identify a scientifically innovative and practically feasible ways to improve taste and flavor profile of oysters (food chemistry) via fattening processes, and 3) Identify microbiological and environmental factors involved in oyster winter mass mortality using metagenomics and other omics and environmental techniques. These positions, in close collaboration with PhD students and others in the lab, may involve in hatchery production and maintenance of experimental oysters, conducting challenge experiments, analysis of genotype, microbiome, environmental and phenotype data, communication with oyster community, and importantly, writing manuscripts for publication. Interdisciplinary International collaboration is KEY strength of our group. Qualifications: a PhD degree in a related field. Applicants should have relevant research experience and a good publication record. Experience in genomic selection, food chemistry, or environmental microbiome is highly preferred. The monthly salary ranges from HK$25,000 to 35,000 (approximately US$3 to 4K per month), commensurate with publication record and potential to become an academic professor or scientist. Income tax in Hong Kong is negligible for this salary range. The exact salary and contract duration are negotiable. How to apply: Please send your query or CV to Rajan via Email: [email protected] or WhatsApp: 852-95757923 or WeChat: wxid_s610q4iljvdu22. If interested and eligible, apply as soon as possible. (posted 11/9/26).

Hatchery Technician (Hawaii, USA): Pacific Hybreed, Inc. (www.pacifichybreed.com) is looking for a technician to join our team in a key role, responsible for hatchery operations and projects in microalgae cultivation as well as shellfish breeding and production. Responsibilities: Upkeep of filtration and water delivery systems; Transfer and sterile inoculation of multiple microalgal species from scale of agar plates to carboys and larger systems; record keeping using particle-counter; Husbandry of shellfish (larval and seed stages): water changes, feeding, size-grading, microscopy imaging and counting; Assistance in experimental research: measurements of survival and growth of species and organized detailed record-keeping in spreadsheets, drives, and ImageJ;    Routine maintenance of chemical solutions following standard operating procedures; Basic plumbing, screen-making, and pvc projects; Maintain daily and long-term records of temperature, pH, chlorophyll; Prepare samples and reagents for experiments, ensuring proper labeling and storage; Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot experimental issues and optimize procedures. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with algal or larval culturing, or microbiology; Experience maintaining sterile cultures; Basic skills and safety with tools, chemicals, plumbing, electricity, and construction; Confidence with arithmetic and Microsoft Excel; Able to lift 50lbs, repeatedly at times; Work independently and proactively; Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills; Troubleshooting and on-the-spot problem solving; Interest to learn scientific and technical info relevant to shellfish breeding and genetics. For question or to apply for this job email your details to [email protected] (posted 10/22/26)

Laboratory Technician (two positions) (Texas, USA):  The Marine Science Institute (MSI) at The University of Texas at Austin invites applications for two lab technician positions in the University of Texas Oyster Mariculture Laboratory. These positions will play a central role in the daily operations of oyster mariculture including algal feed production, oyster broodstock conditioning and husbandry, larval culture, and spat nursery production. The successful candidate will work under the direction of the Texas Oyster Mariculture Lab manager and Fisheries and Mariculture Laboratory (FAML) Director. Responsibilities include maintaining and optimizing live algal cultures to support broodstock and larval production; maintaining and managing water quality and operations of oyster broodstock; managing day-to-day oyster hatchery operations, including conditioning, spawning, larval rearing, settlement, and nursery grow-out; performing collection of native oysters for use as broodstock; and contributing to data management, compliance, and progress reporting for the shellfish research program. Required qualifications include a BSc. in marine science, aquaculture, fisheries, biology, or a closely related field, or equivalent practical experience in lieu of a formal degree, and at least two years of experience in shellfish aquaculture. Preferred qualifications include experience with algal culture systems, particularly in relation to oyster feed production; oyster/shellfish husbandry and larval rearing; flow-through and/or recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS); and disease management and biosecurity in shellfish hatcheries. Salary is $42,000+. The position will work in an aquaculture laboratory with shellfish, primarily oysters, and with seawater algae cultures; may work around biohazards (i.e. BSL1, bacterial cultures), outdoors in all weather conditions, around standard office conditions, with chemicals such as those used in water quality testing and treatment of diseases, and around electrical and mechanical hazards; and will conduct fieldwork in small boats for oyster broodstock collections. The position also involves repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation, use of manual dexterity, and lifting and moving. Required materials include a resume/CV, three work references with contact information, with at least one reference from a supervisor, and a letter of interest. This position is located in Port Aransas, Tx. Only applicants authorized to work in the US will be considered.  For full job description and to apply, visit: https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/PORT-ARANSAS-TX/Oyster-Technician_R_00049479 (posted 10/22/26)

Aquaculture Operations Manager (St. Thomas, Virgin Islands): The Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative (CWORI) seeks an autonomous, hands-on Aquaculture Operations Manager to lead our native reef herbivore propagation program in St. Thomas, USVI. Reporting to the Coral Reef Restoration and Research Scientist, the Manager directs daily operations across modular 20-ft and 40-ft containerized mariculture labs, outdoor land-based raceways, and offshore nursery structures. Primary responsibilities include closed-cycle sexual propagation and larval rearing of the long-spined sea urchin (Diadema antillarum) using shaker tables and kreisel tanks, alongside developing scalable breeding and nursery pipelines for additional Caribbean echinoids (Tripneustes ventricosus, Lytechinus variegatus, Echinometra viridis) and crustacean grazers including the Caribbean king crab (Maguimithrax spinosissimus). The Manager oversees live feeds production (microalgae flasks/carboys and macroalgae cultivation), life-support systems (LSS) plumbing and maintenance, wild larval settlement trapping, behavioral conditioning, and reef outplanting, while supervising Conservation Technicians and interns. This is a grant-funded through September 30, 2029.    Qualifications: B.S. in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, or related field (or equivalent multi-year hatchery experience); demonstrated hands-on success rearing marine invertebrates through gamete extraction, planktonic larval stages, settlement, and grow-out; proficiency in microalgal live feeds, LSS plumbing/troubleshooting, and SCUBA diving. Valid U.S. work authorization and U.S. driver's license required.  How to Apply:  Review the full job description at https://tinyurl.com/yktknppw. Applications require two steps and are reviewed on a rolling basis:  Resume/CV: Email your CV to Dr. Stephan Bitterwolf ([email protected]), copying HR ([email protected]) and Executive Director Dr. Paul Jobsis ([email protected]) with the subject line: Aquaculture Operations Manager Application - [Last Name, First Name].  Short Answer Responses: Complete the three short-answer prompts (~300 words each) via our application portal: https://forms.gle/vGobadxZHoUTPZKg7.  (posted 10/20/26).

Aquaculture Research Associate (Maine, USA): Atlantic Aqua Farms is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to support the company's research, innovation, and oyster selective breeding initiatives. This role combines scientific research, data analysis, project coordination, and grant development, providing an opportunity to contribute directly to the advancement of sustainable shellfish aquaculture and genetic improvement programs within the organization.  The successful candidate will play a key role in developing and supporting research projects, preparing funding proposals and reports, and analyzing complex biological and operational data. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical, technical writing, organizational, and project management skills, great attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively across research and operational teams. Experience in shellfish aquaculture, breeding programs, or applied biological research will be considered a strong asset.  Key Responsibilities: Research Program Development and Support: Identify, research, and pursue funding opportunities from government, industry, and academic sources; Prepare and coordinate grant applications, research proposals, and funding submissions; Manage grant reporting requirements and ensure compliance with funding agreements and obligations; Draft research protocols, technical documents, and project plans; Provide training to staff in use of specific research protocols; Coordinate with Hatchery Managers and other operational personnel on the implementation and ongoing management of the company's selective oyster breeding programs; Support the execution of research projects by organizing project activities, managing budgets, maintaining research records, tracking deliverables, and preparing reports. Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze biological, operational, and research data using statistical methods; Develop and maintain analytical models to support breeding, production, and research initiatives; Utilize R programming and related analytical tools to manage datasets, conduct statistical analyses, and generate reports; Prepare technical reports, presentations, and summaries for internal and external stakeholders; Assist in evaluating research outcomes and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement. Compliance & Record Management: Ensure the organization adheres to all applicable regulatory, contractual, permitting, and governance requirements with respect to oyster seed & broodstock import and export requirements and breeding programs; Maintain records required to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements for seed and broodstock production and import. Qualifications Required: Master's Degree in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Data Science, Statistics, or a related discipline; Demonstrated experience with scientific research; Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills; Experience with statistical analysis and modeling; Proficiency in R programming and data analysis; Excellent technical writing, reporting, and documentation skills; Strong organizational and project management abilities, including ability to meet deadlines; Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously; Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team; Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: 2-3 years of experience working in a research role; Experience working within the aquaculture sector; Experience preparing grant applications and managing funded research projects; Familiarity with breeding, genetics, or hatchery operations. To Apply:  Please submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected] outlining your qualifications and interest in the position. (posted 9/8/2026)

Shellfish Production Technician (Maine, USA): Downeast Institute is seeking a motivated and dependable Shellfish Production Technician to join our hatchery and research team. This hands-on position offers experience across nearly every aspect of shellfish aquaculture - from broodstock conditioning and spawning through larval rearing, nursery production, field grow-out, and delivery of seed to commercial farms.  Working alongside our hatchery and research teams, the technician will contribute to commercial shellfish production and applied research addressing real-world challenges facing Maine's aquaculture industry. This position is well suited for someone interested in building a career in aquaculture or marine science while developing a broad range of technical skills. This is a full-time, year-round position. Most work occurs during regular daytime hours; however, biological systems and hatchery production sometimes require attention outside of a traditional work schedule. Occasional early mornings, evenings, weekends, or adjusted schedules may be necessary.  The position involves physically active work in hatchery, laboratory, and outdoor environments throughout the year. Candidates must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, work for extended periods while standing, travel to field locations, and safely work in intertidal environments, including mudflats and other wet or uneven terrain.The position also provides opportunities for professional development and increasing responsibility while gaining hands-on experience in shellfish aquaculture and applied marine research.  Primary Responsibilities:  Assist with commercial and research-scale production of shellfish seed, including broodstock conditioning, spawning, larval culture, settlement, and juvenile rearing;  Produce and maintain microalgae cultures used to support hatchery production;  Clean, sanitize, operate, and maintain hatchery equipment and production systems;  Receive, track, prepare, and fulfill shellfish seed orders for commercial aquaculture customers;  Collect and maintain accurate production and research data;  Assist scientists and research staff with laboratory and field-based research;  Participate in nursery, grow-out, demonstration farm, and other field operations;  Assist with the supervision and mentoring of undergraduate students, interns, and seasonal personnel;  Conduct facility tours and interact with students, visitors, aquaculture producers, and members of the public;  Participate in project planning and other activities supporting Downeast Institute's hatchery, research, and organizational goals.  Qualifications:  A bachelor's degree in marine biology, aquaculture, marine ecology, zoology, fisheries, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant hands-on experience, is preferred. Candidates with experience in aquaculture, commercial fisheries, hatcheries, laboratories, marine fieldwork, or related areas are encouraged to apply.  Reliability, initiative, curiosity, and strong attention to detail;  An interest in shellfish aquaculture, marine science, and applied research;  Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team;  Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills;  Basic computer proficiency and the ability to accurately collect and manage data;  Willingness to learn new skills and perform a variety of hatchery, laboratory, and field tasks;  Ability to adapt to changing priorities associated with biological systems, research, and commercial production;  A valid driver's license.  Previous shellfish hatchery experience is valuable but not required for candidates who demonstrate a strong willingness to learn. The position has a starting wage of $20.00 per hour. Downeast Institute provides a benefits package that includes employer-paid health insurance, an Employer Retirement Account (ERA) match, and paid time off.Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled. (posted 9/3/2026)

Assistant Hatchery Manager (Maine, USA): Downeast Institute is seeking an experienced and motivated Assistant Hatchery Manager to help lead the operation and continued growth of our shellfish hatchery.  Working closely with the Production & Research Hatchery Manager, the Assistant Hatchery Manager will help plan and coordinate commercial and research-scale shellfish production, supervise and train staff, monitor biological performance, troubleshoot production systems, and ensure production goals are met.  This is a hands-on leadership position that combines shellfish production, staff supervision, applied research, and hatchery operations. The Assistant Hatchery Manager will also help identify and implement improvements that increase hatchery efficiency, reliability, production consistency, and capacity. Primary Responsibilities: Help develop and implement seasonal shellfish production plans based on commercial seed demand, research needs, and hatchery capacity; Coordinate daily hatchery operations and establish priorities for production technicians, interns, students, and seasonal personnel; Provide hands-on leadership across broodstock conditioning, spawning, larval culture, settlement, juvenile production, microalgae culture, nursery operations, and field grow-out; Monitor shellfish health, survival, growth, water quality, culture conditions, and production performance and adjust strategies as needed; Identify and implement opportunities to improve production efficiency, consistency, survival, and capacity; Train and mentor staff and students while promoting a collaborative, safe, and accountable work environment; Coordinate commercial seed orders with production schedules and help ensure customers receive high-quality seed accurately and on schedule; Maintain accurate production, inventory, customer, and operational records; Work with research staff to integrate applied research into hatchery operations and translate successful findings into improved production practices; Troubleshoot biological, mechanical, seawater, and environmental-control systems and help maintain high standards for sanitation, biosecurity, safety, and equipment maintenance;  Monitor hatchery supplies and communicate purchasing, maintenance, and equipment needs;  Participate in nursery, field research, demonstration farm, outreach, and other program activities; Help coordinate staff schedules and hatchery coverage, including occasional work outside regular business hours;  Serve as the operational lead for the hatchery when the Production & Research Hatchery Manager is unavailable. This is a full-time, year-round position. Most work occurs during regular daytime hours; however, hatchery production sometimes requires attention outside a traditional work schedule. The Assistant Hatchery Manager will share responsibility for appropriate hatchery coverage, including occasional early mornings, evenings, weekends, and adjusted schedules.  The position involves physically active work in hatchery, laboratory, and outdoor environments throughout the year. Candidates must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, work for extended periods while standing, travel to field locations, and safely work in intertidal environments, including mudflats and other wet or uneven terrain.  The position also offers opportunities for professional development and increasing leadership responsibility while gaining broad experience in commercial shellfish production, hatchery management, and applied marine research.  Qualifications:  A bachelor's degree in aquaculture, marine biology, fisheries, marine science, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and significant hands-on aquaculture experience is preferred.  Demonstrated experience in a shellfish hatchery, aquaculture production facility, or closely related marine production environment is strongly preferred. Experience supervising, training, or providing day-to-day leadership to staff, interns, or students is also desirable.  Strong working knowledge of aquaculture or hatchery production practices;  Reliability, initiative, sound judgment, and attention to detail; Ability to organize production activities, establish priorities, and manage multiple responsibilities;  Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot biological and operational systems;  Leadership skills and the ability to train, mentor, and provide clear direction to others;  Strong teamwork, communication, organization, and record-keeping skills;  An interest in improving production methods and developing practical solutions to hatchery challenges;  Ability to work independently and make routine operational decisions when appropriate;  Basic computer proficiency and a valid driver's license. The position has a starting wage of $25.00 per hour. Downeast Institute provides employer-paid health insurance, an Employer Retirement Account (ERA) match, and paid time off.  Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled. (posted 9/3/2026)

Molluscan Curator (Florida, USA): The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium seeks qualified applicants for the position of Curator to oversee management of its scientific collection of shells and molluscs, contribute to the development of educational exhibits and programs, engage with the Museum’s constituencies and the malacological community, and demonstrate a commitment to building knowledge through research. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of molluscs, collection management experience, enthusiasm for communicating natural history and science to the public, a record of research and publication, and a collaborative and collegial working style.  Reporting to the Executive Director, this is a full-time position with a comprehensive benefits package and a salary range of $80,000 - $110,000, depending on depth and relevance of experience.  Primary Responsibility Areas: Collection - Oversee management and growth of the scientific collection of shells and specimens and maintain best-practice museum standards;  Oversee management of the collection’s cloud-based software (Specify); Nurture relationships with collectors and institutions to create opportunities for collections-based projects and growth of the Museum’s collection; Oversee management of the malacological library; Manage collections support staff and volunteers;  Seek grant funding in support of collection care and access;  Consult with aquarium staff on the selection and interpretation of marine life in the aquariums.  Programs & Engagement - In collaboration with the Executive Director and other staff, develop ideas for new exhibits and ensure their scientific accuracy;  In collaboration with the Education Department, develop ideas for programs (such as lectures, classes, and community science);  Be a public advocate for molluscs, their conservation, the Museum, and the field through presentations, press appearances, and digital media;  Play an active role in professional networks and associations to help advance the study and appreciation of molluscs, create opportunities for partnerships, and maintain the Museum as a key presence and contributor to the field;  Participate in events and meetings with Museum constituents including the Board of Trustees, donors, Museum Members, institutional partners, shell clubs, and others.  Research - Strong knowledge of molluscs, ideally with expertise in molluscs of the western Atlantic;  A completed Ph.D. in Zoology, Marine Biology, Geology, Paleontology, Conservation Ecology, or a related field is strongly preferred; however, Ph.D. candidates and applicants with a Master’s in a related field, who also have strong knowledge of the material and collections experience, will be considered;  Experience in best-practice stewardship, cataloguing, and imaging of a natural history collection, preferably a mollusc collection, including experience with collections management software;  Strong interpersonal skills and enthusiasm to engage with a diversity of individuals including Museum staff, malacologists, shell enthusiasts, Museum constituents, and the public;  A record of research and publication;  Experience writing research grants is preferred but not required;  Experience supervising staff and/or volunteers is preferred but not required;  A sense of humor is a plus. To Apply:  Please submit a letter of interest, resume/CV, and three references by email to Executive Director Sam Ankerson: [email protected]. (posted 8/21/26)