Careers in Fish Farming (Aquaculture)
Careers in aquaculture are often broader and less rigidly defined than in sectors such as retail and foodservice. Many day-to-day tasks are shared by farm workers at all levels, including supervisors and managers.
However, there are also specialist roles requiring advanced skills and qualifications, including:
- Hatchery management
- Fish health and veterinary services
- Laboratory and water quality services
- Engineering and technical maintenance
- Farm and site management
These specialist positions often require high level technical training or academic qualifications.
Training in the Aquaculture Sector
Across the seafood industry, high-quality training is essential to support business performance, maintain standards, and protect employee safety. Aquaculture is no exception. A range of training and development opportunities are available to help new entrants and experienced professionals build their skills.
Aquaculture apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide valuable on-the-job training and practical skills development. They are particularly beneficial for new entrants looking to build operational experience in aquaculture.
Lantra Scotland has developed a Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture to support the Scottish aquaculture industry. These apprenticeships are available at three levels, offering clear progression from entry-level roles through to senior management:
- SVQ 2 Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture – SCQF Level 5
- SVQ 3 Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture – SCQF Level 7
- SVQ 4 Technical Apprenticeship in Aquaculture Management – SCQF Level 9
These programmes are currently delivered by the NAFC Marine Centre, part of the University of Highlands and Islands. At present, these opportunities are only delivered in Scotland. Employers based outside Scotland can work with a Scottish training provider to enable participation, although funding l contributions towards the costs of the qualification may vary depending on the candidate’s residency.
Read more about Aquaculture Apprenticeships on the NAFC Marine Centre website.
College and University Aquaculture Courses
Many professionals in aquaculture sector hold degrees in aquaculture itself or in related subjects such as biology, marine biology, marine science.
Aquaculture-related qualifications are offered by universities across the UK, while colleges of further and higher education provide more vocational and practical training routes.
Please note that courses can change, so we recommended you keep an eye on websites such as UCAS and Discover Uni.
Training Courses
We provide information and training to employers and employees involved in the harvesting, purification, handling and trading of bivalve shellfish.
Marine safety training developed for the fishing industry, is also very relevant to many aquaculture operations. It can help individuals develop practical skills and strengthen safety awareness, whether entering the industry or progressing within it.
Training areas include