Aquaculture Farm Technician - Coastal Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 83,000 - 138,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly wage

Health insurance benefits

Coastal work environment

On-the-job training

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Aquaculture Farm Technician to join a leading marine farming operation in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will manage daily farm activities, including feeding, water quality checks, and equipment maintenance to support healthy stock growth.

The role requires practical aquaculture experience, a relevant qualification, and willingness to work extended hours. You may operate small vessels and contribute to data collection for research and growth monitoring.

Qualifications

• Must have a relevant qualification in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, or related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Feed stock daily according to schedules and protocols.
• Monitor and record water quality parameters (temperature, salinity, DO, pH).
• Maintain and repair aquaculture equipment (pumps, filters, aerators, feeding systems).
• Assist with stocking, grading, and harvesting of farmed species.
• Inspect stock for disease or stress and report concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness of facilities and surrounding areas.
• Operate and maintain small vessels for offshore tasks as required.
• Adhere to biosecurity, health and safety regulations.
• Assist with data collection for growth monitoring and research.

Skills

Observational skills

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Independent work

Teamwork

Education

Relevant qualification in Aquaculture or Marine Biology or Fisheries Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading marine farming enterprise, is looking for a dedicated and hands-on Aquaculture Farm Technician to join their operations based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role involves the daily management and maintenance of aquaculture facilities, focusing on the health and growth of farmed marine species. You will be involved in feeding, monitoring water quality, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the smooth running of all operational aspects of the farm, which may include both land-based and near-shore marine systems. The ideal candidate will have practical experience in aquaculture or a related marine science field and a strong commitment to sustainable aquaculture practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct daily feeding of stock according to established schedules and protocols.
• Monitor and record key water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH).
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on aquaculture equipment, including pumps, filters, aerators, and feeding systems.
• Assist with the stocking, grading, and harvesting of farmed species.
• Inspect stock for signs of disease or stress and report any concerns to the supervisor.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of farm facilities and surrounding areas.
• Operate and maintain small vessels or boats for offshore tasks as required.
• Adhere to all biosecurity, health, and safety regulations.
• Assist with data collection for growth monitoring and research purposes.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in an aquaculture or commercial fishing environment.
• Practical knowledge of aquaculture systems and species commonly farmed in the region.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in various weather conditions.
• Good observational skills and attention to detail.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for equipment maintenance and repair.
• Strong work ethic and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work extended hours, including weekends and public holidays, on a rotating basis.
• A valid driver's license and preferably a boat license.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage and overtime opportunities.
• Health insurance benefits.
• Opportunity to work in a beautiful coastal environment.
• On-the-job training and skill development in advanced aquaculture techniques.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing industry.
• Contribution to sustainable food production.