Position Overview
This role is for someone who wants to be part of building something from the ground up. As a Senior Aquaculture Technician, you will work directly alongside the founder to establish, operate, and grow an emerging Redclaw crayfish farm in North Queensland. The position blends hands‑on farm work with technical aquaculture responsibilities, stock management, problem‑solving, and continuous professional improvement as the business scales.
We’re looking for a person with practical aquaculture experience and the energy to take on challenging tasks in a dynamic environment. Formal study in aquaculture, marine science, biology, or a related field is beneficial but not essential if you bring strong practical farming knowledge and enthusiasm.
This role offers a mix of physical activity and mental challenge. You will be involved in every operational aspect of the farm—from pond preparation to broodstock management—and will play a key part in shaping the farm’s systems, culture, and long‑term success.
Key Responsibilities
Farm Operations & Husbandry
* Oversee daily husbandry of Redclaw crayfish across broodstock, nursery, and grow‑out systems.
* Monitor animal health, behaviour, growth rates, and survival.
* Maintain optimal water quality through regular testing, record‑keeping, and corrective actions.
* Assist with feed management, feeding schedules, and feed trials as required.
Pond & System Management
* Prepare, stock, and manage ponds throughout production cycles.
* Operate and maintain aeration, pumping, filtration, and water‑supply systems.
* Identify and troubleshoot issues related to water quality, infrastructure, or animal health.
* Assist in developing and refining farm SOPs as the business grows.
Harvesting & Processing
* Lead or assist in harvesting activities, including trapping, grading, and handling of crayfish.
* Maintain accurate harvest records and assist with inventory management.
Broodstock & Nursery Management
* Support breeding programs, broodstock selection, and spawning activities.
* Manage nursery systems, including juvenile care, stocking densities, and survival optimisation.
* Contribute to improvements in breeding efficiency and early‑life‑stage performance.
General Farm Duties
* Operate farm vehicles, equipment, and tools safely and responsibly.
* Assist with construction, repairs, and farm infrastructure development.
* Maintain clean, organised, and safe work areas.
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Practical experience in aquaculture or related primary industries.
* Strong interest in redclaw or crustacean farming and willingness to learn species‑specific techniques.
* Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in outdoor conditions.
* Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to adapt to changing priorities.
* Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to take initiative.
* Good communication skills and ability to work closely with the founder and small team.
Desirable
* Formal study in aquaculture, biology, environmental science, or similar fields.
* Experience with pond‑based aquaculture systems.
* Experience with freshwater species.
* Knowledge of water quality management and basic laboratory testing.
* Experience with breeding programs or nursery systems.
* Mechanical aptitude for pumps, aerators, and farm equipment.
Personal Attributes
* Energetic, motivated, and eager to contribute to a growing business.
* Comfortable working in a start‑up environment where responsibilities evolve.
* Enjoys hands‑on work and problem‑solving.
* Values teamwork, communication, and continuous improvement.
* Passionate about sustainable aquaculture and regional development.
Why Join Us?
* Opportunity to help build a new/ emerging redclaw farm from the ground up.
* Work directly with the founder and influence farm systems and culture.
* Grow your career as the business expands into a larger commercial operation.
* Be part of an innovative, sustainable aquaculture venture in North Queensland.