Role overview
Aquaculture or Fisheries Technicians (ANZSCO 311114) provide technical support and operational assistance in aquatic farming and wild-capture fisheries operations across Australia. These professionals work under the direction of scientists, farm managers, or senior technicians to maintain healthy aquatic environments and support sustainable production systems. Their work spans both land-based aquaculture facilities and marine environments, contributing to Australia's growing seafood industry and fisheries management. The ANZSCO classification system, including this occupation code, continues to be used for statistical purposes and skilled migration assessments despite being a legacy framework.
Specialisations within this classification include Fisheries Technical Officer and Hatchery Technician (Aquaculture), reflecting the diverse applications of these technical skills across different aquatic production systems. The occupation sits within the broader Agricultural, Agritech and Aquaculture Technicians unit group, indicating its focus on practical, production-oriented technical work rather than pure research.
Key tasks in practice
While ANZSCO does not provide a specific task list for this occupation, typical responsibilities drawn from industry practice include:
- Monitoring water quality parameters and environmental conditions in aquaculture systems or natural fisheries habitats
- Assisting with breeding programs, larval rearing, and hatchery operations for various aquatic species
- Conducting stock assessments, growth monitoring, and health checks of aquatic organisms
- Maintaining and operating technical equipment including feeding systems, aeration equipment, and water treatment facilities
- Collecting samples and data for research, compliance, or stock management purposes
- Implementing biosecurity protocols and disease management strategies in aquaculture settings
These tasks require a combination of technical knowledge, practical skills, and understanding of aquatic biological systems.
Skill level explanation
ANZSCO skill level 2 indicates that this occupation typically requires an AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience. In practice, many Aquaculture or Fisheries Technicians hold qualifications in aquaculture, marine science, fisheries management, or related fields.
This skill level classification has practical implications for Australia's skilled migration program, where it may be used to assess visa eligibility. However, specific registration, licensing, or additional requirements may apply depending on state regulations or employer specifications. The skill level indicates these are para-professional roles that work with some autonomy but typically under broader direction from qualified professionals.
Industry context
Aquaculture or Fisheries Technicians are employed across several ANZSIC industry classifications including aquaculture (0201), fishing (0203), and scientific research services (6910, 6925). This reflects their dual role in both production industries and research/management contexts.
In Australia, these technicians work in diverse settings including commercial salmon and barramundi farms, oyster and pearl operations, prawn hatcheries, government fisheries departments, and research institutions. The growing aquaculture sector and ongoing fisheries management requirements create continuing demand for these technical skills. Employment opportunities exist across coastal regions nationwide, particularly in Tasmania, South Australia, and Queensland where significant aquaculture industries operate.
The international ISCO crosswalk maps this occupation to ISCO 3142 (Agricultural technicians), indicating the broader technical nature of the role within primary production contexts.