Commercial Shellfish Hatchery Manager

Job Details

Location: Nelson, Aotearoa New Zealand | Full-time, Permanent

Salary: NZ $85,000 – $100,000 (depending on skills and experience)

Manage our Commercial Oyster Hatchery! Located near Nelson – renowned as a high-sunshine hour and lifestyle hotspot!

We are looking for a Commercial Shellfish Hatchery Manager to supervise a small team of Aquaculture Technicians focussed on Commercial Oyster Hatchery operations, provide expert shellfish hatchery technical knowledge and mentorship within our state-of-the-art facilities. Whilst the predominant focus of our commercial hatchery is on Pacific Oysters, the position will also be working with additional shellfish species including Greenshell™ mussels.  

What you'll do:

• Day-to-day supervision and training of the Commercial Oyster Aquaculture Technical team
• Management of commercial oyster breeding programmes working closely with our genetics team
• Day-to-day hands-on involvement with hatchery operations, from animal husbandry and larval rearing to systems maintenance
• Assist with day-to-day husbandry of other aquatic animals as required
• Liaise with commercial clients
• Plan and coordinate production runs to meet client’s needs

Flexibility to work weekends and/or out-of-hours callouts to ensure equipment and system maintenance may be necessary.

The Role Description is available via our careers page.

What you'll bring:

• Minimum of a Bachelors in Aquaculture, Biological science, or similar qualification
• 5+ years’ experience in a shellfish hatchery, with industry experience preferred
• Expertise in larval rearing, husbandry and aquatic animal welfare
• Interpersonal skills essential, supervisory experience desirable
• Strong verbal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with a wide range of groups in a diverse community
• Excellent organisation skills and attention to detail
• Computing skills, in particular MS Excel and Word, and basic analytical methods

Due to the physical nature of the role, you must be physically fit, and able enough to lift/carry up to 20 kg.

Why Cawthron?

Cawthron Institute is New Zealand’s largest independent science organisation, delivering innovative solutions for sustainable aquaculture, seafood safety, and environmental protection. You’ll join a supportive team that values collaboration, integrity, and impact.

Benefits of Working at Cawthron

The salary will range from $85,000 to $100,000 NZD depending on expertise and experience, + 3.5% Kiwisaver employer contribution (or alternative NZ equivalent superannuation).

• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Professional development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
• Health and wellbeing initiatives, including access to wellness programmes.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture where your contribution makes a real difference.
• The chance to work in beautiful Nelson, surrounded by stunning natural environment.

How to apply:

If you are interested in joining our team, please apply via our careers page with your CV and a cover letter, outlining what you can bring to the role.

At Cawthron, we are committed to upholding equitable and inclusive practices. If there are accommodations that we can provide to support you throughout the recruitment process, or for any questions about the role, please email recruitment@cawthron.org.nz

Applications close: 25 June 2026 at 5:00pm

Requirements

Minimum of a Bachelors in Aquaculture, Biological science, or similar qualification

Contact Information

If you are interested in joining our team, please apply via our careers page with your CV and a cover letter, outlining what you can bring to the role.

For any questions about the role, please email recruitment@cawthron.org.nz

Applications close: 25 June 2026 at 5:00pm (NZST)