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Mook Sea Farm’s hatchery is located on the Damariscotta River in Walpole, Maine, where Bill Mook began farming shellfish in 1985.  Our current Hatchery Manager is moving to a new role as Director of Production and we are seeking a new Hatchery Manager.  The Hatchery Manager will be responsible for the ongoing day to day management of the hatchery, including conditioning, spawning, larval maintenance, and setting of the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica), and management and leadership for all staff involved in those processes.

Primary Responsibilities

The Hatchery Manager will be accountable for successful production of our oyster seed and phototrophic algae. They will provide employees with clear weekly plans related both to production of oyster seed and phototrophic algae production, including line flask and kwall prep and inoculations.  More specifically, the Hatchery Manager will:

• Manage all hatchery operations from spawning through to nursery production.
• Determine production needs and set production schedule for phototrophic algae production.
• Maintain detailed data related to inventory, feed formulas, and biological production; maintain SOPs & operations manual.
• Supervise all hatchery personnel and ensure all hatchery staff adhere to established protocols.
• Set and maintain high standards of cleanliness, biosecurity, and workplace safety.
• Work collaboratively with and take direction from the Director of R&D on all R&D related projects that involve larvae, seed, or microalgae production, related to optimizing production and/or solving production problems.
• Contribute to discussions regarding developing or refining protocols; effectively train new personnel.
• Organize and oversee the schedules and work of assigned staff, including setting weekend & holiday schedules.
• Reports to the Director of Production.

Education and Experience

We are looking for candidates with a minimum of a BS in a biological or marine science field, and with experience in oyster or other shellfish hatcheries.  Experience in a commercial-scale shellfish hatchery is preferred.  At a minimum, candidates should have demonstrated competence with a variety of culture systems and confidence in the operation and maintenance of hatchery equipment. Candidates should have experience managing teams of people in a labor-intensive environment where attention to detail is of the utmost importance, and should have a positive attitude and collaborative approach to problem solving.

Schedule and Pay

This is a full-time position with benefits, averaging 40 hours per week. However, this position requires a flexible work schedule that will include hours above 40 per week, as well as weekend and on-call rotations.  Pay will be commensurate with experience and reflective of the crucial role this person will play in the success of the farm.

Physical Requirements

Physical strength, balance, hand-eye coordination, and stamina necessary to complete jobs in various areas of the hatchery.  Ability to lift, push and/or pull at least 50 pounds; manual dexterity to operate a variety of equipment.

How to Apply

For the full job description, or to apply please send a cover letter, your resume, and three references to: Moira Foley (Moira@mookseafarm.com).

Applications are accepted starting immediately; flexibility in start date. Mook Sea Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer.