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Take the Next Step in Your Aquaculture Career!

Are you ready to have a major impact on one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing industries? Join the Cawthron Institute, New Zealand’s largest independent science organisation, and put your aquaculture skills to work supporting world-class research and innovation.

This isn’t an entry-level technician role. This is your opportunity to build on your aquaculture experience and take a more active role in driving sustainable seafood production, applied research, and the advancement of hatchery technology.

About the Role:

As a Shellfish Hatchery Technician, you’ll be part of a talented team supporting Cawthron’s Pacific oyster hatchery and broader aquaculture research programmes.

Your work will be hands-on and varied, from shellfish hatchery operations and aquatic animal husbandry to data collection, analysis, and experimental support. You’ll also collaborate across finfish and algae programmes when needed.

What You’ll Do:

• Support hatchery operations including broodstock care, larval and spat rearing.
• Maintain aquaculture systems, water quality and biosecurity standards.
• Assist with experimental setup, data collection and analysis.
• Help refine and develop production systems and SOPs.
• Collaborate with Cawthron scientists, other technicians, and industry partners.

To succeed in this role, you’ll ideally have:

• A BSc (or equivalent experience) in aquaculture, marine science, or a related field.
• 3 years or more of experience in a technical aquaculture or hatchery environment.
• Proven skills in shellfish or finfish husbandry, field sampling, or aquatic system operation.
• Experience using scientific equipment or analytical tools (e.g. microscopy, data analysis).
• Excellent attention to detail, record keeping and organisational skills.
• A current driver’s licence and the ability to lift up to 20 kg.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including weekends or call-outs when required.
• You align with our Cawthron values: We Care, We are Collaborative, We are Bold and We are Curious.

Why Cawthron?

• Work at the forefront of aquaculture science and innovation.
• Be part of a collaborative, purpose-driven team shaping the blue economy.
• Contribute to meaningful outcomes for healthy ecosystems and thriving communities.
• Enjoy a lifestyle based in sunny Nelson, surrounded by a total of three national parks all within a short driving distance as well as a large variety of beautiful beaches.

Ready to Advance Your Aquaculture Career?

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to play a hands-on role in the future of sustainable seafood production and marine research

Apply today and become part of a team creating real impact for Aotearoa’s oceans, rivers and lakes.

If you have any questions pertaining to the role or the recruitment process, please contact Dylan in the People & Capability Team on recruitment@cawthron.org.nz 

We are committed to inclusion in our hiring practices at the Cawthron Institute. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to make the recruitment process more accessible for you.

Applications close at 5:00 pm on Monday 24 November so get in quick if you are interested in this role!