Aquaculture Farmer

Overview

Plans, organises, controls, coordinates and performs farming operations to breed and raise fish and other aquatic stock.

Skills

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1).

Tasks

  • planning and coordinating the operation of hatcheries to produce fish fry, seed oysters, crayfish, marron and prawns taking into account environmental and market factors
  • monitoring the environment to maintain optimal growing conditions
  • identifying and controlling environmental toxins and diseases
  • monitoring stock growth rates to determine when to harvest
  • transporting fish, crayfish, marron, prawns and sticks of seed oysters to new tanks, ponds, cages and floating net pens
  • directing and overseeing the harvesting, grading and packaging of fish, oysters and other aquatic stock
  • organising the sale, purchase and transportation of fish stock
  • maintaining and evaluating records of farming activities, monitoring market activity and planning production accordingly
  • managing business capital including budgeting, taxation, debt and loan management
  • may select, train and supervise staff and contractors

Alternative Titles

  • Marine Farmer

Specialisations

  • Fish Farmer
  • Hatchery Manager (Fish)
  • Mussel Farmer
  • Oyster Farmer
  • Seafood Farmer

Source: 1220.0 - ANZSCO - Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations, First Edition.
Note: The tasks associated with the occupation are to be used as guidance only. The tasks listing may include tasks associated with the grouping/category to which the occupation belongs.