Aquaculture Monitoring Technician

We are seeking a highly motivated Aquaculture Monitoring Technician to carry out the daily operations of our new laboratory. The role will largely entail diagnostics in relation to fish health but will also involve environmental and food safety monitoring. The successful candidate will contribute to maintaining high efficiencies for MFF activities relating to the production of bluefin tuna, sea bream and sea bass. This role has a range of responsibilities, with a seasonal shift in the volume and importance of different tasks both in the field and the Laboratory.

Sustainability is vital to MFF operations, and the successful candidate will contribute to this by helping to maintain high levels of fish health & welfare, environmental management and food safety.

You will work closely with the Production Managers and Scientific Consultants to carry out your duties and meet your objectives.

Responsibilities 

• Conduct regular health assessments of fish stock, including observation, sampling, and testing in the laboratory and the field.

• Perform molecular analysis using electrophorese, PCR and qPCR technologies, light microscopy, microbiology and other diagnostic tests to detect and monitor fish pathogens.

• Help develop and implement pathogen screening protocols with 3rd parties to minimize disease risks.

• Carry out monitoring, sampling and testing protocols to ensure compliance with regulations and permits in relation to fish welfare, environmental and food safety regulations.

• Analyze and interpret results to advise management on risk assessment and production decisions.

• Coordinate submission of biological samples for analysis by 3rd parties.

• Manage the laboratory's day-to-day operations, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures.

• Maintaining high cleanliness and biosecurity.

• Maintain laboratory equipment and consumable inventories.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations within the laboratory environment.

• Assist with record keeping, digital data entry, and reporting as required.

• Contribute to development of company policies, including:

o Environmental Management Policy

o Fish Health & Welfare Policy

o Food Safety Policy

• Carry out any other tasks as directed by the production manager.

• Assisting with other projects being undertaken by MFF Ltd.

Required Skills

• A degree in biology, environmental science, analytical technology or a related field.

• Knowledge in areas of aquaculture and fish health management would be considered to be advantageous.

• Previous work experience in a diagnostic laboratory environment. 

• Proven experience in molecular diagnostics, including PCR and qPCR analysis, and/or microbiology would be considered an advantage although training will be given.

• Self-motivation, enthusiasm, responsibility and reliability.

• The candidate must have a willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays and be able to assist with sampling, both onshore and offshore.

• Hands-on approach with self-initiative would be welcomed.

• Ability to work alone with minimal supervision.

• Ability to maintain accurate records and protocols.

• Computer literacy, in particular advanced MS Word & Excel skills and the ability to use diagnostic software.

• Ability to communicate effectively and enjoy working as part of a team.

• Driving license.

• Fluent in English and preferably Maltese.

Whilst based in Marsaxlokk, the candidate will be involved in sample collection from sea cage production sites and other MFF facilities.