Job Summary
Matunuck Oyster Bar is seeking a dynamic and dedicated Oyster Farm Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of oyster cultivation and farm operations. The Oyster Farm Manager is a hands-on leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of oyster farming operations, nursery management, grow-out operations, harvesting, equipment maintenance, crew supervision, environmental stewardship, and public engagement.
This role requires active participation on the water and in the field throughout the year. The Oyster Farm Manager will coordinate daily farm activities, manage a small team, maintain production schedules, conduct farm tours, and ensure the farm consistently produces high-quality oysters for Matunuck Oyster Bar and other sales channels.
The successful candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a passion for aquaculture, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to work safely and efficiently in a dynamic marine environment.
Farm Operations
- Oversee all daily oyster farming activities including nursery, grow-out, grading, sorting, tumbling, harvesting, and inventory management.
- Monitor oyster growth, survival rates, and overall crop health.
- Develop and implement production plans to meet harvest and inventory goals.
- Forecast seed requirements and coordinate seed purchases with suppliers.
- Maintain accurate crop records from seed to harvest.
Harvesting & Production
- Coordinate harvest schedules to meet restaurant and wholesale demand.
- Ensure oysters are harvested, handled, and transported according to food safety regulations and company standards.
- Maintain product quality and consistency throughout the production process.
- Track production metrics and identify opportunities for increased efficiency.
Crew Leadership
- Lead, train, schedule, and supervise farm crew members.
- Foster a positive, productive, and safety-focused work environment.
- Conduct employee training and performance evaluations.
- Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures.
- Manage employee onboarding, training documentation, and required certifications.
Equipment & Facilities
- Oversee maintenance and repair of boats, floats, cages, grading equipment, tractor, trailers, and farm infrastructure.
- Coordinate preventative maintenance schedules.
- Maintain inventory of supplies, tools, and equipment.
- Work with management to plan equipment upgrades and capital improvements.
Environmental Stewardship & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all state, federal, and local aquaculture regulations.
- Maintain permits, reporting requirements, and environmental records.
- Promote sustainable aquaculture practices that support the health of Rhode Island's coastal ecosystems.
- Work cooperatively with regulatory agencies, researchers, and community stakeholders when necessary.
Farm Tours & Public Engagement
- Conduct private and group oyster farm tours for guests, corporate groups, media, educational organizations, and special events.
- Ensure all tour participants have a safe, engaging, and memorable experience on the water and around farm operations.
- Coordinate tour logistics, scheduling, vessel readiness, and safety requirements with management and event teams.
- Represent the farm professionally during media appearances, community events, and promotional opportunities as needed.
Planning & Budgeting
- Assist in developing annual production plans and operating budgets.
- Monitor labor, equipment, and operating costs.
- Recommend improvements to increase efficiency, productivity, and profitability.
- Work with ownership and management to develop long-term farm growth strategies.
Communication
- Maintain strong communication with ownership, restaurant leadership, vendors, regulators, and farm staff.
- Participate in management meetings and operational planning discussions.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum 3 years of shellfish farming, aquaculture, commercial fishing, marine operations, or agricultural management experience.
- Previous supervisory or team leadership experience.
- Knowledge of oyster cultivation techniques and shellfish biology.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent organizational and planning abilities.
- Strong communication and public speaking skills.
- Comfortable engaging with guests, media representatives, educational groups, and community organizations.
- Ability to communicate aquaculture concepts in an engaging and approachable manner.
- Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions.
- Ability to learn and utilize farm management and inventory tracking systems.
- Experience operating boats, tractor, trailers, and marine equipment preferred.
- Mechanical aptitude and equipment maintenance experience preferred.
Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
