New Year resolution: Join the Blue Economy Movement on Groote Eylandt
Help shape the future of sustainable aquaculture in Northern Australia
Groote Aqua Aboriginal Corporation (GAAC) is a growing, Indigenous-led organisation committed to developing a sustainable blue economy on Groote Eylandt as the community prepares for a post-mining future (mine closure expected within 7 years). Our work combines innovative aquaculture practices with strong cultural, environmental, and social values.
We operate a multi-trophic aquaculture facility at Little Paradise, where we cultivate Blacklip oysters (Saccostrea echinata), sea cucumbers (Holothuria scabra), rabbitfish (Siganus lineatus), and seaweed (primarily Caulerpa spp.). As our operations expand due to recently secured funding (e.g. Blacklip oyster hatchery project), we are seeking passionate and experienced individuals to join our team.
We are currently hiring for:
* Hatchery Technicians
* Microalgae Technician
* Aquaculture Supervisor
These full-time positions are based on Groote Eylandt (no FIFO), with a tentative start date of late February/Early March 2026. They are ideal for individuals seeking a meaningful and rewarding career in sustainable aquaculture with the ability to drive innovation and promote change in the industry.
Hatchery Technician – Key Responsibilities
* Assist with the spawning, rearing, and maintenance of fish, oysters, and sea cucumbers
* Maintain water quality, clean tanks and equipment, and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs)
* Grade fish and oysters, propagate seaweed, and support production goals
* Adhere to strict biosecurity, WHS, and animal welfare standards
* Work collaboratively within a small team and contribute to daily operations
Experience in hatchery work with shellfish or sea cucumber is essential (experience in microalgae production is highly desirable).
Microalgae Technician – Key Responsibilities
* Culture, scale, and harvest microalgae for hatchery use; prepare media and seawater; monitor growth, cell density, and health
* Coordinate algae supply with larval rearing, nursery, broodstock conditioning, and live-feed enrichment; adjust production volumes to operational demand and peak spawning periods.
* Maintain accurate culture logs and reports; operate and maintain algae systems (aeration, lighting, temperature control); manage consumables; support SOPs, training, and ongoing improvement of algae performance.
Experience in marine microalgae production is essential.
Aquaculture Supervisor – Key Responsibilities
* Supervise a small team (3–5 staff) and coordinate daily tasks and production targets
* Lead operational planning across multiple species (oysters, fish, sea cucumber, seaweed, ornamentals)
* Oversee project development from R&D to production, including experiment design, data collection, analysis, and stakeholder reporting
* Implement and improve WHS protocols, SOPs, and training processes
* Ensure high standards of quality, efficiency, and compliance
Previous experience in aquaculture team management is required. Experience with multi-species production (inc hatchery) would be seen favorably.
What We're Looking For
* Proven experience and strong track record in aquaculture (hatchery, sea cucumber, or shellfish preferred)
* High attention to detail and ability to follow procedures accurately
* Strong work ethic and adaptability to remote working AND living
* Flexibility for shift work and weekend rotations (rostered)
* Passionate about the industry and the beautiful NT coastline
* Capacity to work in a remote spot (but stunning) and at time working in harsh conditions (hot, humid, wildlife...)
* Willingness to obtain required licences (HR, forklift, Coxswain, Ochre card)
* Cultural awareness and experience working in Indigenous communities (preferred)
* Working rights in Australia. GAAC can sponsor but only candidates already in Australia with working rights, with the desired expertise
What We Offer
* Competitive salary + holiday travel allowance ($3,000/yr) + salary sacrifice options
* Provided single-room accommodation with utilities covered (water/power/internet)
* Access to a work vehicle
* Ongoing training and professional development
* The opportunity to be part of a meaningful initiative with lasting impact
* A unique lifestyle experience in one of Australia's most beautiful and remote communities
* Help/coverage of relocation cost (4wd, boat
If you're motivated and ready to make an impact, join Groote Aqua Aboriginal Corporation; producing premium seafood, creating meaningful jobs, strengthening culture and environment on Groote Eylandt, and supporting the growth of aquaculture initiatives across the Northern Territory.
Apply now and send us your CV/Resume inclusive of 2 referees AND your Cover Letter