Seasonal Shellfish Aquaculture Technician (Deadline: May 15th)

Wellstown; Wells (ME); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits as a Seasonal Shellfish Aquaculture Technician at a renowned environmental research facility. This role offers hands-on experience in marine sciences, focusing on clam hatchery operations and public outreach. Interns will engage in vital research projects, including water quality monitoring and species identification, while gaining valuable skills in animal husbandry and lab procedures. The position promises a collaborative environment, perfect for those passionate about marine ecosystems and eager to make a difference in coastal stewardship. Join a team dedicated to education and research while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Wells, Maine.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in aquaculture and environmental sciences.
• Lab and technical skills preferred for effective research support.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities are essential.

Responsibilities

• Maintain daily operations of the clam hatchery and wetlab.
• Support public outreach and educational activities.
• Monitor water quality and assist in research projects.

Skills

Aquaculture knowledge

Animal husbandry

Communication skills

Teamwork

Detail-oriented

Lab skills

Education

Enrolled in aquaculture or environmental sciences program

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Employment Opportunities

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Seasonal Shellfish Aquaculture Technician 14 hours/week

Estimated start: Mid-June 2025

Duration: 16 Weeks, 14 hours a week, Sundays are required

Area(s) of discipline: Aquaculture, Animal husbandry, Marine and Aquatic Sciences, Coastal Ecology, Fisheries, Environmental Science, Education, and Public Outreach

Internship location: Town of Wells (Wells Harbor), and the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve in Wells, ME.

Description:

The Town of Wells (TOW) and the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve (WNERR) are seeking an enthusiastic, energetic, and motivated intern to support the operations of a new wetlab facility and clam hatchery located at the Mouth of the Webhannet River (Wells Harbor) in Wells, ME. The intern will be involved in daily maintenance, public outreach, community activities, and assisting researchers with research and monitoring projects at the facility and town dock. The intern will work closely with the TOW Harbormaster and WNERR staff.

The primary focus will be on the daily operations of a clam hatchery and wetlab space used for research, shellfish production, and educational outreach. The intern may also support research projects including lobsters, crabs, invasive species, marsh monitoring, larval fish surveys, microscopy, and data management.

This internship will be approximately 50% hatchery and wetlab work, and 50% research and monitoring support. Key responsibilities include:

• Maintaining hatchery practices (feeding, cleaning tanks, animal sorting)
• Supporting and operating public touch tanks and lobster holding tanks
• Monitoring water quality and chemistry
• Supporting research and monitoring projects
• Conducting plankton tows and sorting zooplankton samples
• Public outreach and education
• Assisting with other lab or field projects as needed

Required Qualifications & Skills:

Applicants should be enrolled in an academic program related to aquaculture, aquatic, or environmental sciences, with some hands-on experience. Lab and technical skills are preferred. Candidates should be motivated, team-oriented, organized, detail-oriented, and possess a valid driver’s license. As public interaction is involved, enthusiasm and communication skills are essential.

Additional requirements include:

• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Enjoy working in both field and lab environments
• Accuracy and dependability
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Clear verbal and written communication

Preferred but not essential skills:

• Experience in wet-lab, hatchery, or fish farm settings
• Quantitative or analytical software skills
• SCUBA certification
• Small boat operation experience

Salary & Compensation: $20.00 per hour

Submission Deadline: Applications can be obtained from the Town’s website at www.wellstown.org or the Human Resources Department at Wells Town Hall. Send completed applications to: Attn Human Resources, Town of Wells, 208 Sanford Road, Wells, ME 04090, or email to [e-mail]. Please complete the Town’s Application for Employment and do not apply via social media platforms.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Town of Wells is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Expected Outcomes: The intern will gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry, lab procedures, educational outreach, and public speaking. Skills include managing marine invertebrates, water quality monitoring, species identification, and public engagement. Opportunities for networking with professionals in marine science are also provided.

About the Wells Reserve at Laudholm:

The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve is a protected area dedicated to coastal stewardship through research and education. Covering 2,250 acres along Maine’s southern coast, it features diverse habitats, trails, and historic buildings. For more information, visit www.wellsreserve.org.