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