Full-time Aquaculture Technical Officer
Launceston, Tasmania
Petuna Aquaculture Pty Ltd
Petuna has grown from a successful fishing operation founded by Peter and Una Rockliff in 1949 into a leading Tasmanian aquaculture company. We grow, harvest, and process premium salmonids for wholesale and retail markets, with operations including a state-of-the-art hatchery in Cressy, marine farms in Macquarie Harbour and Rowella, and a cutting-edge production plant in Devonport.
At Petuna, our people are at the heart of what we do. Join a company that embraces innovation, sustainability, and a strong commitment to safety, wellbeing, and career development.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated Aquaculture Technical Officer to join our Fish Performance Team.
Based primarily at our Rowella or Cressy site near Launceston, this full-time role involves regular travel across our hatchery and marine farming operations. You will contribute directly to fish performance, health management, environmental monitoring and data integrity across our operations.
This is a hands-on, technical role suited to someone who enjoys working both in the field and with data, and who takes pride in precision, teamwork and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Fish Performance Manager, you will:
* Plan, coordinate and conduct fish weight, quality and health sampling programs across sites.
* Coordinate and participate in fish health monitoring, including smolt checks, disease investigations and sample collection.
* Conduct environmental and water quality sampling, testing and reporting.
* Maintain site databases and ensure accurate, timely data entry and analysis.
* Maintain, calibrate and troubleshoot scientific and environmental monitoring equipment.
* Contribute to research and development projects.
* Support regulatory and environmental compliance requirements.
* Assist with broader farm operations as required, including feeding and general site activities.
* Ensure all tasks are performed in accordance with Petuna’s health, safety and biosecurity procedures.
About You
You are reliable, practical and detail-oriented, with a strong commitment to safety, fish welfare and operational excellence.
You will ideally bring:
* A relevant tertiary qualification (Bachelor’s degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries, Marine Science or related field).
* Practical experience in salmonid husbandry, handling and feeding.
* Experience in fish health, environmental monitoring or technical aquaculture roles.
* Strong understanding of water quality parameters and sampling methodologies.
* Data management and analytical capability, with proficiency in Microsoft Excel (essential).
* Well-developed planning, time management and reporting skills.
* Understanding of environmental and aquaculture regulatory frameworks.
* Forklift licence and Coxswain’s ticket (desirable).
* Small crane/Hiab ticket (desirable).
Why Petuna
* Stable, full-time employment (38 hours per week) with a respected Tasmanian aquaculture producer.
* Monday to Friday roster supporting work-life balance.
* Competitive annual salary dependent on experience and qualifications, ranging from $78,000 to $82,000 plus superannuation.
* A dynamic, varied role with genuine opportunities for professional growth.
* Supportive and collaborative team culture.
* Commitment to safety, sustainability and responsible aquaculture.
* Employee benefits:
* Heavily discounted staff fish sales.
* Wellbeing initiatives, including up to 4 EAP sessions per occasion (extended to immediate family).
* Discounted private health insurance through St Luke’s Health.
If you are ready to build your career in aquaculture and contribute to a high-performing team committed to safety, sustainability and excellence, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit your resume and cover letter.
Working visa holders must include current VEVO documentation.
Candidates who applied for this role within the past six months do not need to reapply.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $78,000.00 – $82,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Application Deadline: 04/06/2026