A Career in Aquaculture....Blue is the new green

On the shore

If you prefer dry land, there are vital roles that keep the industry moving forward. Are you into biology or environmental science? You could be a Fish Health Biologist or a Lab Technician, analysing water samples and ensuring fish are thriving. Good with your hands or interested in how things work?Maintenance Engineers are crucial for keeping the sophisticated equipment, from boats to automated feeders, in top condition.

And the journey doesn’t end at the farm. The industry needs people in processing, logistics, sales, marketing and HR to get the final product to customers around the world.

So, what makes aquaculture a smart choice for your future? This isn’t a temporary gig. Scottish salmon is a world-renowned premium product. As Scotland’s number one food export by value, the industry is a cornerstone of the economy, offering stable, year round employment in rural communities. You’ll be part of an industry focused on sustainable food production. Your work will contribute to feeding the planet responsibly, a mission you can be truly proud of.

Also, companies invest heavily in their staff , offering clear pathways for promotion from a trainee technician right up to a farm manager or a senior specialist.

Ready to take the plunge?

Modern apprenticeships:Look on websites like Skills Development Scotland or directly on the careers pages of major aquaculture companies like Mowi, Bakkafrost or Scottish Sea Farms. You’ll get paid to learn, developing vital skills and knowledge from entry-level (SCQF Level 5) right up to senior technician or supervisor positions (SCQF Level 7). Once you’ve completed the Aquaculture Production Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 7, you could go further with an SVQ in Aquaculture Management at SCQF Level 9.

College courses: The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) and other colleges offer courses in Aquaculture, Marine Science and related  fields that can give you a theoretical and practical foundation.

Direct entry: Keep an eye out for trainee positions. Companies are always looking for enthusiastic, reliable young people who are eager to learn and have a strong work ethic.

Your future career might not be in a distant city office block. It could be right here, on the water, in a lab or in a workshop. It’s a chance to build a rewarding life and career in the community you call home. So, why not dive in and see where it takes you?

Start exploring here:

mowi.com/uk/people/vacancies/

www.bakkafrostscotland.com/careers

scottishseafarms.com/careers/currentvacancies/

www.uhi.ac.uk/en/research-enterprise/res-themes/mese/aquaculture/educationtraining-skills/

www.apprenticeships.scot/