Aquaculture Production Manager

As an Aquaculture Production Manager you plan, direct and coordinate the day-to-day farming of fish, shellfish or other aquatic species across large-scale production sites along Ireland's coastline or inland waterways. You oversee stocking, feeding, health monitoring and harvesting schedules, making sure production targets are met while animal welfare and environmental standards are maintained. You work closely with veterinarians, marine biologists, site operatives and regulatory bodies such as Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) to ensure compliance with legislation governing water quality, stock health and sustainable harvesting. You also analyse production data, compare forecasts with actual yields and manage budgets and resources across the operation.

A degree in Aquaculture, Marine Science, Marine Biology or a related discipline at NFQ Level 7 or Level 8 is the typical minimum entry route; programmes are offered at institutions such as Atlantic Technological University (ATU), University of Galway and Munster Technological University (MTU). Leaving Certificate subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Agricultural Science, Mathematics and Geography provide a strong foundation for these courses. A QQI Level 5 or Level 6 PLC award in Aquaculture or Fish Farming can provide an alternative pathway into the sector, with progression to a degree possible thereafter. BIM operates specialist training programmes and short courses in aquaculture that complement formal qualifications and are highly valued by employers. Postgraduate study at NFQ Level 9 in areas such as Sustainable Aquaculture or Environmental Management can be advantageous for advancement to senior management roles. No statutory professional registration body currently exists for this occupation in Ireland, though compliance with BIM licensing and relevant environmental legislation is mandatory.