Description
The Maine Shellfish and Seaweed Technician registered apprenticeship program is a minimum 1-year commitment to working a full-time, year-round, on-farm job. Apprentices will, under the guidance and mentorship of an experienced business owner and/or employee, complete 2,000 hours of paid, on-the-job training. In addition, apprentices will complete 144 hours of coursework and training through Southern Maine Community College, along with supplementary experiences. The program is run by the Maine Aquaculture Association and the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. It is designed for those with a serious interest in establishing a long-term career in Maine's aquaculture sector.
The apprenticeship requires a significant amount of manual labor and time on-the-water in all weather conditions, year-round. For additional information on the program, please review the program materials found here or contact [email protected] with any questions.
If hired through this apprenticeship program, you will be an employee of the company for which you are hired and subject to their company policies.
If enrolled in the apprenticeship program, you will complete the required 2,000 hours of on-the-job training, along with the 144 hours of coursework through Southern Maine Community College, starting with a week-long Introduction to Aquaculture boot camp May 12-16, 2025.
Farm Information:
Vertical Bay is an innovative sea scallop farm located in Penobscot Bay, Maine. We are committed to producing the highest quality line-grown sea scallops while serving as stewards of our local marine ecosystem. Our mission is to develop a sustainable industry that enhances the marine environment and provides economic opportunities in coastal Maine.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and hardworking Farmhand to join our team. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working on a commercial vessel, passionate about shellfish aquaculture, and possess a strong work ethic with excellent problem-solving skills. This role requires the ability to work independently and as part of a team in various weather conditions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Scallop Cultivation: Assist in the seeding, growth monitoring, and harvesting of sea scallops.
- Vessel Operations: Participate in daily operations aboard our vessel, ensuring all activities are conducted safely and efficiently.
- Equipment Maintenance: Maintain and clean farming equipment, including nets, lines, and buoys, to prevent biofouling and ensure optimal scallop growth.
- Quality Control: Ensure that all harvested scallops meet Vertical Bay's high-quality standards before they reach our customers.
Qualifications:
- Experience: Previous experience in aquaculture, commercial fishing, or marine operations is preferred but not required.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy equipment and working long hours on the water.
- Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Work Ethic: Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and a strong commitment to sustainable aquaculture practices.
Benefits:
- Competitive hourly wage starting at $15.50 - $22.00 depending on experience.
- Two weeks of paid leave per year.
- Opportunity to work in a growing and innovative sector of Maine's aquaculture industry and be a part of the 1st in the nation Aquaculture Apprenticeship program.
- Hands-on training and professional development in sea scallop farming techniques.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume to:
For more information about Vertical Bay and our operations, please visit our website at www.verticalbaymaine.com.