Aquaculture Monitoring Technician

We are seeking a highly motivated Aquaculture Monitoring Technician to carry out the daily operations of our new laboratory. The role will largely entail diagnostics in relation to fish health but will also involve environmental and food safety monitoring. The successful candidate will contribute to maintaining high efficiencies for MFF activities relating to the production of bluefin tuna, sea bream and sea bass. This role has a range of responsibilities, with a seasonal shift in the volume and importance of different tasks both in the field and the Laboratory.

Sustainability is vital to MFF operations, and the successful candidate will contribute to this by helping to maintain high levels of fish health & welfare, environmental management and food safety.

You will work closely with the Production Managers and Scientific Consultants to carry out your duties and meet your objectives.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular health assessments of fish stock, including observation, sampling, and testing in both laboratory and field environments.
• Perform molecular analyses using electrophoresis, PCR, qPCR, light microscopy, microbiology, and other diagnostic techniques to detect and monitor fish pathogens.
• Assist in developing and implementing pathogen screening protocols with third-party providers to minimize disease risks.
• Carry out monitoring, sampling, and testing protocols to ensure compliance with fish welfare, environmental, and food safety regulations and permit requirements.
• Analyze and interpret test results to support risk assessments and production decisions.
• Coordinate the submission of biological samples for analysis by third-party laboratories.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and biosecurity within the laboratory.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and manage consumable inventories.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations within the laboratory environment.
• Assist with record keeping, digital data entry, and reporting as required.
• Contribute to development of company policies, including:

  • Environmental Management Policy

  • Fish Health & Welfare Policy

  • Food Safety Policy

• Carry out any other tasks as directed by the production manager.
• Assisting with other projects being undertaken by MFF Ltd.