Aquaculture Animal Keeper in Oklahoma Career Overview
As an Aquaculture Animal Keeper, you play a vital role in the aquaculture industry, which is essential for sustainable seafood production and ecosystem management. Your primary responsibilities include:
Animal Care: You tend to the health and well-being of aquatic species, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition, proper living conditions, and medicine when needed.
Monitoring Ecosystems: You regularly assess water quality and environmental conditions to maintain a habitat that supports healthy growth and reproduction of aquatic life.
Reproduction and Breeding: In many instances, you assist in breeding programs that help to sustain fish populations and enhance stock genetic diversity for commercial purposes.
Research and Data Collection: You collect data on fish growth, behavior, and environmental factors, contributing to research efforts aimed at improving aquaculture practices.
Collaboration with Professionals: You often work alongside marine biologists, veterinarians, and aquaculture managers to implement best practices and promote ecosystem sustainability.
Your work as an Aquaculture Animal Keeper is integral to meeting the growing demand for seafood, supporting local economies, and ensuring the health of aquatic ecosystems. Through your dedication and expertise, you contribute significantly to responsible aquaculture practices that benefit both the environment and society.
Aquaculture Animal Keeper Salary in Oklahoma
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 Oklahoma
To become an Aquaculture Animal Keeper, you typically need to complete specific educational requirements and training programs. Here are the recommended qualifications:
Animal Health Degree: A degree in Animal Health focuses on the care and management of animals, covering aspects of veterinary science, nutrition, and animal welfare. This program prepares you for the health and wellness aspects of aquatic animals.
Aquaculture Degree: Pursuing a degree in Aquaculture provides specialized knowledge in fish farming, aquatic animal management, and the environmental factors influencing aquaculture systems. This program equips you with skills directly applicable to managing aquatic species.
Animal Husbandry and Production Degree: This degree encompasses a broad understanding of breeding, care, and production practices for a variety of animals, including aquatic species. It emphasizes the biological principles of animal husbandry, making it relevant for various animal care roles, including aquaculture.
Animal Health Technician Training: While not a degree, completing training as an Animal Health Technician can complement your education by providing hands-on experience in animal care and health monitoring. This training focuses on the practical applications needed for daily operations in aquaculture settings.
Additionally, many positions may require or benefit from certifications in specific areas related to aquatic animal care and management, so pursuing ongoing education and training can enhance your qualifications in this field.
Best Schools to become a Aquaculture Animal Keeper in Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma
Animal Husbandry Knowledge: You should have a solid understanding of fish and aquatic organisms' biology, behavior, and breeding requirements. This knowledge is essential for maintaining healthy populations under your care.
Water Quality Management: Proficiency in monitoring and adjusting water quality parameters, including pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and ammonia levels, is important for the health of aquatic animals.
Feeding and Nutrition: You need to know the dietary needs of different species to ensure proper nutrition and growth. This includes familiarity with commercial feeds and natural food sources.
Health Monitoring: An ability to identify signs of illness, stress, or injury in aquatic animals is vital. Regular health assessments will help prevent outbreaks and ensure the well-being of the animals.
Record Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of animal health, breeding, feeding schedules, and water quality parameters is necessary for tracking progress and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Problem-Solving Skills: You should be prepared to troubleshoot issues that arise in the aquaculture environment, whether related to water quality, animal health, or operational challenges.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail is essential in monitoring animal behaviors and environmental conditions, as small changes can indicate larger issues.
Technical Skills: Familiarity with aquaculture equipment and technology, such as filters, pumps, and monitoring systems, is necessary for efficient operation and problem resolution.
Teamwork and Communication: Effective collaboration with colleagues and clear communication skills are important for working within a team, sharing observations, and discussing strategies for animal care.
Time Management: You must manage your time effectively to balance daily tasks, such as feeding, water quality checks, and health assessments, while ensuring all duties are completed efficiently.
Safety Awareness: Understanding and adhering to safety protocols, especially when handling chemicals or working with heavy equipment, is critical in maintaining a safe working environment.
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 Oklahoma
The job market for Aquaculture Animal Keepers in Oklahoma is shaped by several key factors that influence demand and growth potential in the sector.
Growing Industry Demand: With a rising interest in sustainable food sources and aquaculture practices, the demand for Aquaculture Animal Keepers has increased. As local fish farms, hatcheries, and aquaponics systems expand, more professionals are needed to manage aquatic species effectively.
Aquaculture Growth Potential: Oklahoma’s aquaculture industry is anticipated to grow, bolstered by state support for agricultural development and food production. This growth will likely lead to an increase in job openings for Aquaculture Animal Keepers in the coming years.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Oklahoma have emerged as centers for aquaculture activity:
- Eastern Oklahoma: This region, characterized by its lakes and rivers, offers a conducive environment for fish farming and aquatic ecosystems. Local farms often require skilled personnel to manage stock and maintain facilities.
- Northeast Oklahoma: The presence of established aquaculture businesses makes this area a hub for job opportunities. The region’s investment in aquaculture research can also lead to emerging positions.
- Oklahoma State University Extension: Collaborations with educational institutions can lead to internships and entry-level positions, fostering career development in this sector.
Supportive Agricultural Policies: The state’s commitment to expanding agriculture, including aquaculture, through policies and programs facilitates additional opportunities for employment.
As the aquaculture industry continues to evolve in Oklahoma, the landscape for Aquaculture Animal Keepers is promising, with various opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
Top Related Careers to Aquaculture Animal Keeper 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Aquaculture Animal Keeper in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC)
Explore regulations, resources, and information on aquatic species management in Oklahoma.
ODWC AquacultureU.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - National Aquaculture Association
Access funding programs, research, and aquaculture best practices.
National Aquaculture AssociationAquaculture Production Technology - Oklahoma State University
Find educational resources, research articles, and degree programs related to aquaculture.
Oklahoma State University AquacultureNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries
Review guidelines for sustainable aquaculture practices and federal regulations impacting the industry.
NOAA Fisheries AquacultureAquaculture Network Information Center (ANIC)
Utilize a wealth of information, including research publications and technical resources for aquaculture professionals.
ANICThe Fish Site
Stay updated with industry news, articles, and expert insights into aquaculture practices and technologies.
The Fish SiteAquaculture America Conference
Participate in professional development and networking opportunities with other aquaculture professionals.
Aquaculture America 2023Oklahoma Aquaculture Association
Connect with local aquaculture professionals, attend events, and access region-specific information.
Oklahoma Aquaculture AssociationOklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Find information on aquaculture production techniques, pest management, and resource guides tailored for Oklahoma aquaculturists.
Oklahoma Cooperative Extension ServiceFish Farming News
Read about advancements, case studies, and market trends in aquaculture.
Fish Farming News
Utilize these resources to enhance your knowledge and network within the aquaculture community in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aquaculture Animal Keeper in Oklahoma
What is the primary role of an Aquaculture Animal Keeper?
As an Aquaculture Animal Keeper, your primary role involves the care and management of aquatic animals in a controlled environment, ensuring their health, growth, and reproduction. This includes monitoring water quality, feeding schedules, and conducting regular health assessments.What educational background is necessary for this career?
A high school diploma is typically required, but many employers prefer candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in aquaculture, marine biology, or a related field. Relevant certifications can also enhance your qualifications.What skills are important for an Aquaculture Animal Keeper?
Important skills include attention to detail, strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of aquatic ecosystems. Familiarity with water quality test procedures and animal husbandry practices is also beneficial.What are the typical working conditions for an Aquaculture Animal Keeper?
You can expect to work both indoors in hatcheries or laboratories and outdoors in ponds or ocean farms. The work often involves strenuous physical activity, regular exposure to water, and sometimes working in various weather conditions.Is there a demand for Aquaculture Animal Keepers in Oklahoma?
Yes, Oklahoma has a growing aquaculture industry, particularly in catfish farming and ornamental fish production. This growth increases the demand for skilled Aquaculture Animal Keepers to manage breeding and production operations.What are the career advancement opportunities in this field?
With experience, you can advance to supervisory roles, such as aquaculture manager or hatchery supervisor. Further education and specialized training can also lead to opportunities in research or consultancy within the aquaculture sector.What is the salary range for an Aquaculture Animal Keeper in Oklahoma?
As of the latest data, the salary range for an Aquaculture Animal Keeper varies, but it generally falls between $30,000 and $45,000 annually. Factors such as experience, education, and specific employers can influence salary levels.What are the potential health risks associated with this job?
Like any animal-related career, potential health risks include exposure to pathogens, zoonotic diseases, and physical strains from handling equipment and animals. Adhering to safety protocols can help mitigate these risks.Are there any professional organizations for Aquaculture Animal Keepers?
Yes, organizations such as the World Aquaculture Society and the Aquaculture Association of Oklahoma provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education for professionals in the field.What types of facilities might employ Aquaculture Animal Keepers?
Potential employers include fish farms, hatcheries, research institutions, aquariums, and government agencies focused on wildlife and conservation. Each facility may have different requirements and types of aquatic species managed.