Cherrystone Aqua Farms (CAF) is a family owned and operated shellfish aquaculture company located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, and the leading cultured shellfish producer on the East Coast. We spawn, grow, pack, and ship millions of hard clams and eastern oysters annually and our hatcheries in Cape Charles and Willis Wharf, VA are the vital first step in that process.
Senior Hatchery Technicians report directly to the Assistant Hatchery Manager and work both independently and as part of a team. Successful candidates will take on scientific and production focused work in addition to the hands-on labor the physical upkeep and daily hatchery operations entail. Performing all duties of a Hatchery Technician while also taking on additional technical and production responsibilities, duties include but are not limited to:
- Tank cleaning, equipment maintenance, pump operations, water collection, and general hatchery upkeep expected of a Hatchery Technician.
- Microscopic inspection of shellfish larvae to assess health, developmental stage and condition, and the ability to make informed decisions based on what you find.
- Monitoring and recording algae production metrics; adjusting feed regimens as needed.
- Assisting with broodstock conditioning, spawning, and larval setting procedures.
- Conducting water quality analysis and interpreting results to adjust system parameters.
- Providing guidance and informal mentorship to Hatchery Technicians as operational needs arise.
- Maintaining detailed production logs and contributing to data tracking protocols.
- Assisting in other areas of the hatchery as needed.
Hatchery work is physically demanding. A typical day involves:
- Lifting and carrying 50-100+ lbs. repeatedly.
- Extended periods of physical labor followed by precise, focused technical work.
- Climbing stairs and ladders multiple times per day.
- Working in wet, humid environments and outdoors in all weather conditions
- Extended periods of standing, bending, and scrubbing.
Requirements
- Proficiency with microscopy and the ability to assess larval health, identify developmental stages, and recognize signs of stress or disease.
- Strong scientific foundation: water chemistry, algae culture, biological systems.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accurate record-keeping.
- Ability to work independently and make sound decisions without constant supervision.
- Physical capacity to meet the full demands of hatchery operations.
- Reliable transportation to and from work.
Schedule
Peak hatchery season (January-June) includes a requirement to work evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as requested. This position demands flexibility, reliability, and promptness.
Compensation
This is a full-time position. $18-$25/hour. Compensation is commensurate with experience and reflects the elevated scope of this role relative to other hatchery positions.
Benefits
- All full-time employees are eligible for health, dental, eye, and life insurance benefits after a 60-day waiting period.
- Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) program, with CAF making a matching contribution to your account based on your deferral contributions in an amount equal to 100% of the first 4% of compensation that you contribute to the plan for each plan year.
- Paid time off.
- Professional development and industry participation, including support for attendance at relevant aquaculture conferences, workshops, and industry events.
To apply, please email your resume and brief description of why you are interested in the position to hatcheryjobs@clamandoyster.com