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. 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) Shellfish Hatchery/Field Technician (Maryland, USA): Morgan State University Patuxent Environmental & Aquatic Research Laboratory (MSU PEARL) is seeking to hire a hatchery/ field technician for the 2026 hatchery season to work with eastern oysters and soft-shell clams. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Hatchery Duties- Keep detailed and organized records for all daily hatchery processes. Microalgal Culture, Media preparation, Assisting with inoculations (carboys, kwalls), Counting algae and calculating feeding, algal culture health assessments, Water quality monitoring; Broodstock Daily maintenance (cleaning and feeding), Conditioning assessment, Spawning (natural and strip spawning); Larval Culture Water changes (3x/week), Counting larvae (health assessment, measuring, recording data, restocking), Feeding; Setting and post-set, Preparation of setting tank (microcultch and cultchless setting), Setting larvae, Daily maintenance (cleaning, feeding, health assessment), Grading seed. Field Duties- Deploy seed from nursery in the field, Assist with fieldwork at partner oyster farms, Oyster bag maintenance (splitting bags, replace floats, repair broken gear, remove dead oysters), Record fieldwork and maintain shellfish inventory, Sampling shellfish (record measurements), Powerwash dirty gear. Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma, Valid Driver’s License with reliable transportation to and from work, Ability to lift 50lbs, Ability to complete repetitive tasks well and efficiently, Willingness to work in challenging physical conditions (rain, cold, heat, wind), Experience with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint), Flexible schedule including occasional weekend shifts and holiday coverage. Preferred Qualifications: BS in Biology or related field preferred, Experience working in a field station or biological research laboratory setting, Attention to detail, ability to record all pertinent data for research purposes, Excellent time management skills, Experience working in a shellfish hatchery. This is a full-time contractual one-year position, with the possibility of extension given available funds and satisfactory performance. The annual salary rate for the position ranges between $50,000- $60,000, commensurate with experience. To apply: Please email resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references to [email protected] with “Hatchery/Field Technician” as the subject line. (posted 11/5/2025) |