Job Summary
The Hatchery Assistant will support the Hatchery Manager in the day-to-day operation of the kelp hatchery and nursery. This role combines laboratory work, nursery operations, field collection, and hands-on facility development, and is well suited to candidates with a strong interest in marine biology, phycology, or aquaculture.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Operations
- Assist with daily lab activities, including preparation of solutions and culture media
- Autoclave labware and maintain sterile techniques
- Track reagent inventories and assist with ordering supplies
Gametophyte Seed Bank Maintenance
Maintain kelp gametophyte culturesConduct regular health assessments using microscopyPerform media changes and monitor growthIdentify, manage, and document contaminationMaintain accurate culture recordsNursery Operations
Assist with spool seeding and nursery setup during the nursery seasonConduct daily nursery tasks, including water quality testingAdjust growth conditions as requiredMonitor and manage biological contaminationSorus Collection and Culture Initiation
Assist with the collection of wild kelp during reproductive seasonProcess sorus tissue and initiate new cultures from sporesExperimental Work
Assist with experiments aimed at optimizing culture conditions across multiple kelp speciesSupport data collection and record-keeping for experimental trialsFacilities & System Development
Assist with the construction and modification of seawater culture systemsHelp install and maintain pumps, tanks, filters, and plumbing componentsEducation & Experience
Required / Preferred Qualifications :
Degree in Biology or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)Experience or demonstrated competence in one or more of the following :Biological laboratory work, including comfort with microscopyRearing or culturing marine organisms (seaweeds, algae, invertebrates, or fish)Experience with bacterial cultures, plants, or fungiSetting up or maintaining aquaculture or recirculating water systemsWorking with plumbing and aquaculture equipment (pumps, filters, valves)Skills & Attributes
Ability to maintain a clean, well-organized laboratory environmentAbility to follow and consistently apply detailed protocolsExperience with basic data collection and record-keepingComfortable working both independently and as part of a small teamJob Details
Job Types : Full-time, Permanent, Fixed term contractContract length : 12 monthsPay : $25.00-$27.00 per hourExpected hours : No less than 40 per weekBenefits
Company eventsOn-site parkingLocation & Qualifications
Ability to commute / relocate : Sooke, BC : reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)Education : Bachelor's Degree (required)Experience : Laboratory : 1 year (required)Work Location : In person#J-18808-Ljbffr