Algae Technician
Algae Technicians are responsible for the production of micro-algae to feed mussel and oyster larvae in the hatcheries.
What do Algae Technicians do?
- Check PH
- Monitor size of micro-algae.
- Stir the stock cultures.
- Monitor temperature, light intensity, air flow and nutrient concentration.
- Oversee the health of stock cultures.
- Use of specialist science equipment.
- Ensure equipment is sterile.
- Carryout transfer of stock cultures to shellfish larvae in the hatcheries.
- Maintenance of growth equipment.
- Animal husbandry.
- Pond management.
- Experimental set-up.
- Data collection.
Qualifications
- To become an Algae Technician, you need to have a relevant science or technology qualification.
- Some employers require you to have a New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5 or 6), while others require a Bachelor of Science or a master’s degree in the relevant area of specialisation.
- A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Useful subjects include Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Physics at NCEA L3.
Useful experience
- Experience in fields related to the area of science you wish to work in.
- Other science or laboratory work.
- Science undergraduates often gain experience by working in a laboratory part time while studying.
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