Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York Career Overview
As an Aquaculture Animal Keeper, you play an essential role in the management and care of aquatic organisms raised in controlled environments. Your daily responsibilities revolve around ensuring the health and well-being of various species, which can include fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants.
Key aspects of your job include:
Animal Husbandry: You monitor the conditions in which aquatic animals thrive, including water quality, temperature, and dietary needs. Your commitment to maintaining optimal environments directly influences the growth and sustainability of species within the aquaculture industry.
Health Management: You observe animals for signs of illness or stress, administering treatments as necessary, and collaborating with veterinarians or aquatic health specialists. This vigilance is vital to preventing disease outbreaks that could impact production and biodiversity.
Feeding and Nutrition: You design and implement feeding regimes tailored to the dietary requirements of each species. Ensuring proper nutrition is critical for maximizing growth rates and enhancing the quality of the aquatic organisms you manage.
Record Keeping: You maintain detailed records of breeding cycles, health inspections, feeding schedules, and other critical data. This documentation supports effective management practices and contributes to industry standards.
Sustainability Promotion: You advocate for practices that promote environmental sustainability and ethical aquaculture. Your efforts contribute to the development of healthy ecosystems while supporting local and global food supply chains.
Your work as an Aquaculture Animal Keeper not only helps to support the livelihood of communities relying on aquatic resources but also addresses growing demands for sustainable seafood and conservation of aquatic species.
Aquaculture Animal Keeper Salary in New York
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York
To become an Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training in relevant fields. Here are the recommended degree programs to consider:
Animal Health: A degree program in Animal Health focuses on the medical and welfare aspects of animals, covering topics such as nutrition, diseases, and preventive care, which are essential in managing aquatic species.
Aquaculture: Enrolling in an Aquaculture degree program provides specialized knowledge in the farming of aquatic organisms, including fish, shellfish, and algae. This program typically includes coursework in production techniques, water quality management, and aquatic ecology.
Animal Husbandry and Production: This program highlights the principles of breeding, raising, and caring for animals. A focus on Aquaculture within this field is beneficial as it equips you with skills needed for effective management of aquatic animal production systems.
Animal Health: Similar to the first mention, a distinct focus on this degree may offer you in-depth understanding of animal care, specifically tailored to the health and management of aquatic species.
In addition to obtaining a relevant degree, pursuing internships or hands-on experiences in aquaculture settings can further enhance your practical knowledge and skills in the field.
Best Schools to become a Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York 2024
Clemson University
Auburn University
Carteret Community College
Kentucky State University
Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi
Harcum College
- Attend to live farm, ranch, open range or aquacultural animals that may include cattle, sheep, swine, goats, horses and other equines, poultry, rabbits, finfish, shellfish, and bees.
- Attend to animals produced for animal products, such as meat, fur, skins, feathers, eggs, milk, and honey.
- Duties may include feeding, watering, herding, grazing, milking, castrating, branding, de-beaking, weighing, catching, and loading animals.
- May maintain records on animals; examine animals to detect diseases and injuries; assist in birth deliveries; and administer medications, vaccinations, or insecticides as appropriate.
- May clean and maintain animal housing areas.
- Includes workers who shear wool from sheep and collect eggs in hatcheries.
Aquaculture Animal Keeper Required Skills and Competencies in New York
Animal Husbandry Knowledge: Understanding the biological and behavioral needs of aquatic species, including feeding, breeding, and overall care practices, is essential for maintaining a healthy environment.
Water Quality Management: Familiarity with water chemistry and the ability to monitor and adjust parameters such as pH, temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels to ensure optimal living conditions for aquatic animals.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in using equipment and technology related to aquaculture systems, including pumps, filtration systems, and monitoring devices.
Observation Skills: Strong observational abilities to accurately detect signs of illness, stress, or other issues within the aquatic population, allowing for prompt intervention.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Capacity to analyze situations and implement effective solutions to challenges that arise in the care of aquatic animals or the maintenance of their habitats.
Record-Keeping and Data Management: Competence in maintaining accurate records of animal health, feeding schedules, water quality metrics, and other relevant data to ensure compliance and inform future practices.
Safety and Compliance Knowledge: Awareness of industry regulations and best practices regarding animal care, handling procedures, and environmental impact to ensure adherence to legal standards and ethical considerations.
Teamwork and Communication: Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and effectively communicate findings, challenges, and strategies related to aquaculture operations.
Physical Stamina and Dexterity: Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and handling equipment, maintaining facilities, and conducting routine maintenance of tanks and systems.
Adaptability: Willingness to adjust practices based on changing environmental conditions, evolving species requirements, and advancements in aquaculture technology.
Job Duties for Aquaculture Animal Keepers
Examine animals to detect illness, injury, or disease, and to check physical characteristics, such as rate of weight gain.
Feed and water livestock and monitor food and water supplies.
Herd livestock to pastures for grazing or to scales, trucks, or other enclosures.
Data base user interface and query software
- BCL Landview Systems WinCrop
- Farm Works Software Trac
Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York
The demand for Aquaculture Animal Keepers in New York is steadily increasing due to the growing interest in sustainable seafood production and aquaculture practices. This rise is driven by a heightened awareness of the environmental impacts of overfishing and a greater emphasis on local food sources.
Growth potential within the aquaculture sector is significant, as New York aims to expand its aquaculture industry to meet both local and national seafood demands. New initiatives and funding from state and federal programs are supporting the development of aquaculture operations, leading to more job opportunities in this field.
Geographical hotspots for Aquaculture Animal Keepers in New York include regions along the Hudson River, Long Island Sound, and various inland water bodies with access to significant aquatic resources. Notable areas for aquaculture development include Suffolk County and areas around the Finger Lakes, where the combination of suitable water conditions and active research institutions enhances job prospects.
The industry is also benefiting from partnerships between academic institutions and private enterprises, creating avenues for innovation and expansion. This synergy is expected to yield more roles for Aquaculture Animal Keepers, particularly in research, hatchery operations, and farm management.
As the industry evolves, you may find opportunities not only in traditional aquaculture practices but also in emerging areas such as aquaponics and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), where the integration of different species creates sustainable farming systems.
Networking opportunities through industry conferences, workshops, and local aquaculture associations can provide valuable connections and job leads, making it easier to navigate the job landscape in New York’s aquaculture sector.
Top Related Careers to Aquaculture Animal Keeper 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- Website: NOAA Fisheries
- Description: Offers a wealth of information on marine life, aquaculture practices, and sustainability efforts.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Website: USDA Aquaculture
- Description: Provides resources and guidelines for aquaculture, including research, funding opportunities, and best practices.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
- Website: NYS DEC Aquaculture
- Description: Contains information on aquaculture regulations, permits, and conservation efforts specific to New York.
The Aquaculture Association of North America (AANA)
- Website: AANA
- Description: A professional organization that promotes the sustainable development of aquaculture and provides networking opportunities for aquaculture professionals.
American Fisheries Society (AFS)
- Website: AFS
- Description: An organization focused on fishery science, conservation, and management. They offer publications, conferences, and a network for professionals in the field.
The Fish Site
- Website: The Fish Site
- Description: An online resource that offers industry news, articles, and insights specific to the aquaculture sector.
Aquaculture Research and Development Network (ARDN)
- Website: ARDN
- Description: A research organization focused on advancing aquaculture practices, offering research findings and project resources.
Fish Farming Technology
- Website: Fish Farming Technology
- Description: A platform that discusses technological advancements in aquaculture, providing insights and information on modern practices.
Aquaculture and Fisheries Management Journal
- Website: Aquaculture and Fisheries Management
- Description: A peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on aquaculture and fisheries management, useful for staying updated on scientific developments in the field.
Cooperative Extension Service
- Website: NYS Cooperative Extension
- Description: Offers educational resources and programs on aquaculture, including workshops and publications tailored to New York's aquaculture industry.
Use these resources to enhance your knowledge and skills in aquaculture as you pursue a career as an Aquaculture Animal Keeper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York
What does an Aquaculture Animal Keeper do?
An Aquaculture Animal Keeper is responsible for the care and management of aquatic animals in a controlled environment. This includes feeding, monitoring health, maintaining water quality, and ensuring appropriate living conditions for species such as fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.What qualifications do I need to become an Aquaculture Animal Keeper?
While formal education such as an associate or bachelor’s degree in marine biology, aquaculture, or a related field can be beneficial, many positions may only require a high school diploma combined with relevant experience. Certifications in animal care standards or water quality management can also enhance your qualifications.What skills are essential for this career?
Key skills include:- Strong observational skills for monitoring animal health
- Knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and species behavior
- Familiarity with water quality testing and management
- Physical stamina for manual tasks
- Basic knowledge of aquaculture systems and equipment
Where can I find employment as an Aquaculture Animal Keeper?
You can find opportunities in various settings, including:- Fish farms and hatcheries
- Research institutions
- Aquariums and marine parks
- Environmental organizations
What is the typical work environment like?
The work environment can vary but often includes both indoor facilities and outdoor settings. You may work in water-intensive conditions and handle equipment, which requires adherence to safety protocols. Expect to work both independently and as part of a team.What are the potential career advancement opportunities?
Advancement opportunities exist within the field, allowing you to move into roles such as Aquaculture Manager, Research Technician, or Health Specialist. Further education or training in specialized areas can facilitate this progression.What are the working hours like?
Working hours can vary but often include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. The nature of the job often requires flexibility to monitor and care for animals regularly.Is the work physically demanding?
Yes, the job can be physically demanding due to the need for lifting and moving equipment, performing routine maintenance on tanks or systems, and spending long periods on your feet.What is the average salary for an Aquaculture Animal Keeper in New York?
The average salary can vary widely based on experience, education, and location, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year in New York.Are there opportunities for continuing education in this field?
Yes, continuing education is encouraged in aquaculture. Workshops, seminars, and certification programs are available through universities, professional organizations, and industry conferences to keep up with the latest practices and technologies.