Aquaculture

What does an aquaculturist do? – Tasks and work environment

An aquaculturist works with the cultivation of fish, shellfish, or other aquatic organisms in controlled environments such as lakes, marine areas, or land-based tanks. Tasks include daily care of the farms and feeding animals, maintaining technical equipment, monitoring water quality, and documenting production data. The profession often involves physical outdoor work, sometimes under demanding weather conditions, and handling machinery and vehicles. The work environment can range from small family businesses to larger commercial facilities, where safety and precision are fundamental to maintaining good animal health and sustainable production.

Salary development over time

Salary development for aquaculturists has been difficult to track over the past three years, as official salary data are lacking for the profession. This is partly because the profession is relatively small and often organized in small-scale companies or within family operations, making data collection challenging. Generally, the fish farming group, which includes aquaculturists, has maintained a stable but low salary level compared to many other natural resource professions. Increased market demand for sustainably produced fish and shellfish may improve salary conditions in the long term. However, no clear percentage changes have been documented recently. The lack of statistics makes it difficult to identify specific trends, but the profession is considered to have growth potential as environmental awareness increases in society.

Aquaculturist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 0 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 0 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 0 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 0 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: No data available for men or women
• Regional differences: No available statistics

Education and qualifications

To work as an aquaculturist, a background in natural resources, especially with specialization in aquaculture or fish farming, is usually required. Employers often seek both practical experience and theoretical knowledge of ecology, water environments, and animal husbandry. There are opportunities to specialize through further education, and internships are common for acquiring necessary skills.

• Upper secondary education: Natural Resources program with specialization in aquaculture (3 years)
• Vocational college: Aquaculture-related programs (1–2 years)
• Internships: Practical training or apprenticeship is advantageous
• Courses/certification: Specialized courses in water chemistry, animal husbandry, or environmental certification may be required
• Prerequisites: Basic scientific subjects are often a requirement

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits within aquaculture vary depending on the employer and the size of the facility, but opportunities for further training, wellness allowances, and access to work clothing and protective equipment are common. In some cases, accommodation near the workplace and flexible working hours are offered, especially in smaller companies or family-run operations.

Competition and challenges

Competition within aquaculture is relatively low compared to other professions, but the industry faces several challenges. Limited access to established land and investment capital can hinder new entrants. The profession also depends on external factors such as water quality, climate change, and strict environmental regulations. However, technological innovations and increased demand for sustainably produced fish can create new opportunities, especially for aquaculturists willing to develop their skills and adapt to a changing market. At the same time, precision and a high work ethic are required for long-term success.

Tips for those who want to become an aquaculturist

To succeed as an aquaculturist, it is beneficial to combine curiosity about technology and the environment with a strong sense of responsibility for animals and nature. Gaining practical experience through internships or summer jobs during studies provides valuable insights into the profession. Precision is crucial, especially when monitoring water quality and animal health. A problem-solving attitude helps when unexpected challenges arise, such as technical failures or environmental changes. Collaboration and communication skills are important, as the work often occurs in teams or in cooperation with other actors. Flexibility and a willingness to continuously learn are also keys to success in a rapidly evolving field. Finally, patience is essential, as results often appear after a long period of work.

Key facts about aquaculturists

• Education level: Upper secondary or vocational education in natural resources
• Work environment: Outdoors, often in humid and changing weather conditions
• Work form: Practical work, sometimes shifts or seasonal
• Demand: Approximately 360 job openings within the fish farming group
• Special skills: Water chemistry, animal husbandry, and environmental technology

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, an aquaculturist can take on greater responsibility within production, such as team leader or operations manager at a larger facility. There are also opportunities to specialize in research, environmental technology, or consulting on sustainable aquaculture. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for the fish farming profession indicate a lack of sufficient data for a definitive assessment, but the number of job openings suggests some demand. The industry is influenced by environmental requirements and increasing consumer interest in sustainable foods, which can lead to new career opportunities for those willing to develop their knowledge and adapt to technological and ecological innovations.

Frequently asked questions about aquaculturists

• What does an aquaculturist earn?
  - There are no official salary figures for aquaculturists, but the profession is part of the fish farming group where the salary level is generally low.
• What education is required to become an aquaculturist?
  - The most common pathway is the natural resources program at upper secondary school with a specialization in aquaculture, but vocational college education is also possible.
• What is the work environment like for an aquaculturist?
  - The work environment is often outdoors and can be physically demanding with varying weather conditions and humid environments.
• Are there many job openings for aquaculturists?
  - Within the fish farming profession, there are approximately 360 job openings according to current statistics.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, sense of responsibility, flexibility, and problem-solving skills are particularly important.
• What are the future prospects for aquaculturists?
  - The forecast is uncertain due to lack of data, but increased demand for sustainable fish production can create new opportunities.
• Can I further my education in aquaculture?
  - Yes, there are advanced training courses and specialized programs, including environmental technology and sustainable production.