Fish farm worker
Career outlook for fish farm worker
Average UK salary
£23,400
Currently employed in Scotland
3,300
"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures. Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.
What's it like?
You would breed and rear fish and shellfish, monitor their water conditions and harvest the stock for sale at market.
You could grow fish such as salmon, trout and halibut for the food industry. Some fish farmers rear other types of fish to stock lakes and rivers for angling or for ornamental ponds.
You would:
- Breed fish by hatching eggs from adult stock
- Buy in young fish and rear them
- Feed fish by hand or by fill hoppers that feed them automatically
- Monitor the health of fish
- Grade fish or shellfish by size and move them to bigger tanks or other holding units
- Make regular checks on water temperature and oxygen content
- Clean filters and screens that trap leaves and other debris
- Treat water before releasing it back into the river
- Harvest fish when ready for sale
- Sell fish to the public and/or trade customers
- Maintain buildings, equipment and fish habitats
Fish farms are generally located in lochs and in the sea off the coast so you’d need to be able to swim.
Many fish farms only have a few staff so managers often do many of the above tasks, as well as supervising fish farm workers. Some fish farms also provide facilities for anglers.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
UK employment status
Full-time
62%
Part-time
27%
Self employed
12%
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- Cooperating
- Working with technology
- Evaluating
- Observation
- Social conscience
- Attention to detail
- Taking initiative
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Qualifications
Qualifications at SCQF level 4/5 are recommended to get into this role. Entry to the job can be competitive.
Once in the job you can gain relevant Aquaculture or Maritime qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Aquaculture (SCQF level 5-7) or a Diploma in Maritime Studies (SCQF level 5).
If you are interested in gaining additional qualifications, it is possible to study an HNC in Fish Farming (SCQF 7) or a Degree in Aquaculture (SCQF 10).
Useful subjects
- Maths
- English
- Science subjects
- Practical technologies
- Health and food technologies
Helpful to have
- A good swimming standard
- Previous work experience with animals
- A driving licence
- An awareness of health and safety precautions
Skills for Work Maritime Skills (SCQF level 5) may be a helpful introduction to the industry.