Overview

What’s involved

Aquaculture technicians (sometimes advertised as farmhands) assist on farm with the growing of marine or freshwater animals, they monitor water quality and assist with the breeding, farming and feeding of fish, prawns, crustaceans, oysters and other aquatic animals.

Sectors include: salmon, cod, trout, barramundi, abalone, oysters, prawns, crabs, scallops, lobsters and other marine species.

How do they spend their day?

Working mainly outdoors, aquaculture technicians work to ensure the farming enterprise is running smoothly with tasks such as:

  • Water quality testing and analysing results for improvement
  • Using software to maintain accurate data collection
  • Conducting health checks and providing treatments
  • Monitoring feeding
  • Grading, weighing animals
  • Lifting and cleaning nets
  • Setting up mooring systems
  • Net cleaning
  • Harvesting
  • Bathing operations and other disease treatments
  • Mortality collection
  • Completing general maintenance

Occupation Insights

Average salary
$55,000 - $110,000 per year
Skills you will use
General maintenance
Feeding routines
Feeding routines
Water quality

Certificate III in Aquaculture (SFI30119) or willing to achieve. Employers may require you to hold or obtain additional certifications such as a boat or forklift licence

This is an entry level job that requires little to no experience however training will be required.

Aquaculture Technicians use technology to monitor water quality, assist with disease identification and control, monitor feeding routines, collect and analyse data, assist with daily tasks like pond and cage maintenance and general maintenance.

Interested in aquatic animals, likes working physically and outdoors, has good attention to detail and a commitment to the health and welfare of animals.

Day in the Life

Aquaculture Technician

Hear Bianca talk about her day-to-day activities as an
Aquaculture Technician