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Aquaculture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our Boise, Idaho office is seeking a Mid-level Civil/Aquaculture Engineer to support our engineering group. We are looking for a motivated candidate with attention to detail, a passion to continue to ...

Aquaculture Technician in Training

Wendell, ID ยท On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

The Aquaculture Technician in Training will demonstrate a passion for fish husbandry, a good work ethic, attention to detail and will perform a variety of aquaculture husbandry duties to include ...

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Aquaculture information

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$5

$21

$42

How much do aquaculture jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for aquaculture in the United States is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aquaculture?

Aquaculture is a form of maritime or water agriculture, sometimes referred to as aquafarming. In aquaculture, farmers, breeders, and other marine scientists develop methods to cultivate freshwater or saltwater organisms, such as oysters, clams, fish, plants, and algae, for the purposes of harvesting them. Aquaculture is distinct from commercial fishing because aquaculturists function more like farmworkers, breeding animals in a controlled environment. Some aquaculture farmers, such as those producing algae, are more focused on developing non-food uses for their products.

What is aquaculture?

Aquaculture, also known as fish farming, is the practice of breeding, raising, and harvesting aquatic organisms such as fish, shellfish, and seaweed in controlled environments. This industry helps meet the global demand for seafood while reducing pressure on wild fish populations. Aquaculture can take place in freshwater or marine environments and can range from small-scale family operations to large commercial enterprises. It plays a crucial role in food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability when managed responsibly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aquaculture, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aquaculture, you need a solid understanding of aquatic biology, water quality management, and fish husbandry, often supported by a degree in marine biology, fisheries, or a related field. Familiarity with water testing kits, feeding systems, hatchery equipment, and sometimes certifications like HACCP are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help professionals address challenges and maintain healthy aquatic environments. These skills ensure efficient production, biosecurity, and the sustainability of aquaculture operations.

What are some typical challenges faced in an aquaculture role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Working in aquaculture often involves dealing with environmental variables such as water quality, disease management, and maintaining optimal conditions for aquatic species. Common challenges include monitoring for disease outbreaks, managing feed efficiency, and adhering to environmental regulations. Effective management relies on strong observation skills, using technology for real-time monitoring, and collaborating closely with team members such as biologists and technicians. Proactive communication and continuous learning are key to addressing issues quickly and maintaining healthy stock.

What is the difference between Aquaculture vs Fish Hatchery Technician?

AspectAquacultureFish Hatchery Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require degrees in marine biology or aquacultureHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, fish farms, marine or freshwater environmentsFish hatcheries, freshwater or marine tanks, outdoor ponds
Industry UsageBroader industry including farming, research, conservationSpecific to fish breeding and hatchery operations
Job FocusManaging entire aquaculture systems, water quality, fish healthFeeding, monitoring, and maintaining fish in hatchery settings

While both roles involve working with fish, aquaculture encompasses the broader practice of farming aquatic organisms, including managing entire systems and water quality. Fish hatchery technicians focus specifically on breeding and raising fish in hatchery environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and interests in the aquatic industry.

How much money can you make in aquaculture?

Aquaculture professionals' salaries vary based on experience, location, and role, but entry-level positions typically start around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, while experienced managers can earn $60,000 or more. Skills in fish health, water quality management, and certifications can influence earning potential.

What is an aquaculture worker?

An aquaculture worker is a professional involved in the cultivation and harvesting of aquatic organisms such as fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants. They perform tasks like monitoring water quality, feeding, disease management, and maintaining equipment in controlled aquatic environments, often requiring knowledge of biology and the use of specialized tools. The role typically involves physical labor and adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

What cities are hiring for Aquaculture jobs?

Cities with the most Aquaculture job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Aquaculture jobs?

The most popular types of Aquaculture jobs are:

What states have the most Aquaculture jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aquaculture jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aquaculture job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,189 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Temporary Aquaculture Tech I General Area Washington

Riverence Holdings LLC

Rochester, WA โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Temporary
Description
Aquaculture Technician I
Riverence Brood LLC is a broodstock business producing premium quality steelhead/rainbow trout, golden rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon, and coho salmon eggs. Our eggs are sold to our sister companies, Riverence Farms LLC and Riverence Provisions LLC, and other customers throughout the US and worldwide. Riverence's modern facilities are designed for the long haul, built to maximize the quality of life for our broodstock, increasing efficiency and minimizing our environmental impact. Our farms have been outfitted with cutting-edge technologies that help us ensure that our customers get the most consistent, highest-quality eggs possible. We believe in being thought leaders in the aquaculture industry. As a result, we pride ourselves in being industry leaders by continually building our professional experience and the industry's credibility.
Benefits:
WA State Sick Leave Program
Classification: Non-Exempt
Wage Range: $18.50 - $20.00
Reports to: This position reports directly to the Area Supervisor.
Date: Updated: 5/23/2023
JOB DESCRIPTION
Summary/Objective
The Aquaculture Technician I will demonstrate a passion for fish husbandry, a good work ethic, attention to detail and have good record keeping skills ensuring the success of the department.
Essential Functions

  1. Perform daily duties or chores and husbandry activities including:
  2. Feeding, mortality removal, screen scrubbing, etc. (see list)
  3. Apply thorough record keeping skills.
  4. Monitor fish behavior and bring any abnormalities to supervisor attention.
  5. Perform routine maintenance on systems and equipment. Perform routine cleaning as necessary on a regular basis in addition to the daily chore list.
  6. Duties include swirl separator scrubbing (3 x week), dip net repair, cover repairs, etc. (Communication with supervisor is essential.)
  7. Follow feed charts according to plan. Monitor and report feed inventory.
  8. Organize and maintain hatchery tools, equipment and grounds; identify safety hazards and recommend remedies and/or take appropriate action.
  9. Assist with fish transfers.
  10. Assist with brood stock sorting and spawning according to protocols. Keep up to date with changing protocols as improvements are made and make suggestions for improvements.
  11. Work in other site areas as directed.
Requirements
Competencies
  1. Fish Husbandry.
  2. Work Ethic.
  3. Record Keeping.
  4. Attention to Detail.
  5. Problem Solving/Analysis.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position does not have supervisory responsibility.
Work Environment
This job operates in an outdoor farm environment. This role is routinely exposed to inclement weather conditions. The role occasionally requires the use of office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
This is a physically demanding role. This would require the ability to occasionally lift up to 75 pounds with the ability regularly to lift up to 50 pounds. The ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, twist, hear, see and the ability to use all senses with or without reasonable accommodation is required.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position, 5 days a week, which could include Saturdays or Sundays, 7:00 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some on call availability necessary. On call availability requires close proximity to the site.
Travel
Minimal travel may be required for this position.
Required Education and Experience
  1. H.S. diploma or G.E.D. required.
  2. Basic math skills; calculate and understand quantities and proportions.
  3. Valid Washington State Driver's License
Preferred Education and Experience
  1. Aquaculture experience preferred.
  2. Aquaculture or related degree preferred.

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Salary Description
$18.50 - $20.00