What are the responsibilities and job description for the Oyster Aquaculture Training Program position at Virginia Institute of Marine Science?
Oyster Aquaculture Training Program participants will assist in all oyster aquaculture operations of ABC. Specific rotations will be ABC hatchery operations performed within the Acuff Center for Aquaculture, at the land-based nursery, at four field sites and in the ABC flow cytometry laboratory.
Participants will work at least one day per week at a local commercial oyster and clam operation. There, participants will rotate between hatchery, nursery, and farm operations. Participants will also have opportunities to work with additional VIMS researchers and will also have the opportunity and are encouraged to participate in externships/work experiences with other bivalve hatcheries and commercial aquaculture farms.
Duties will also include:
- Broodstock maintenance within the Acuff Center will include oyster spawning and larval rearing, setting of oyster larvae and algal culture.
- Husbandry of oyster seed will occur at the VIMS/Batten school land-based nursery.
- Field work on all ABC biological material will be performed at field sites (local and up to 4 hours away).
- Basket/bag deployment, density reduction, monitoring of grow out conditions, sampling etc.
- Maintenance of hatchery and field equipment, building hatchery and field equipment.
- Assistance with laboratory activities including flow cytometry, sampling for programmatic work and externally funded projects.
Required Qualifications:
- High School graduate/equivalent, with experience in biology and biological processes not limited to course work (may include prior work experiences).
- Basic understanding of biology as it pertains to animals living in freshwater or marine systems.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, follow written and oral instructions with strict attention to detail and show initiative. Self-starter.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work in inclement weather conditions and perform comfortably in the field and on the water.
- Experience in aquaculture or marine biology.
Start Date: March 3, 2025
End Date: 7/31/2025 (flexible)
Pay: $17/hr
Applications will be reviewed immediately. Open until filled.
Salary : $17