Shellfish Aquaculture Research Farm Intern

The Shellfish Aquaculture Research Farm Intern position at VIMS offers a temporary, hands-on learning experience in shellfish aquaculture research and farm operations. Interns will shadow experienced staff to gain foundational knowledge and skills in the industry, focusing on observation and assisted participation. The role aims to support workforce development for future careers in shellfish aquaculture and related fields. The job is remote, allowing candidates to work from anywhere.
Job Requisition: JR101201 Shellfish Aquaculture Research Farm Intern (Open) Job Posting Title: Shellfish Aquaculture Research Farm Intern Department: CC00497 VIMS1 | RADV | Natural Resources Job Family: Staff - Lab & Research Support Worker Sub Type: Wage-Temporary (requires end date - non-benefited) (Fixed Term) (Fixed Term) Job Requisition Primary Location: Acuff Center Primary Job Posting Location: Acuff Center Job Description Summary: The mission of William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences & Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service. The Batten School & VIMS make seminal advances in understanding coastal and marine systems through research and discovery, translate research findings into practical solutions to complex issues of societal importance, and provide new generations of researchers, educators, problem solvers, and managers with an education of unsurpassed quality. The Commercial Shellfish Aquaculture Lab & Team (C-SALT) is part of the Virginia Institute’s Shellfish Aquaculture Program. The Shellfish Aquaculture Program’s mission is to ensure a thriving shellfish seafood community in Virginia, the United States and the world, through globally relevant research, extension and education. We strive to achieve this overall mission through three related component missions: 1) To better understand the value of natural environments and promote best practices that lead to sufficient and sustainable shellfish production which in turn supports harvesters, growers, producers, distributors and consumers of shellfish. 2) To develop an inclusive, capable workforce in shellfish seafood related fields, with informed and engaged supportive communities. 3) To increase consumer demand for shellfish. We accomplish this mission through applied research, conducted in the field and the laboratory and in cooperation with commercial producers. The Shellfish Aquaculture Research Farm Intern is a temporary, learning‑focused position much like an apprenticeship, designed to provide hands‑on exposure to shellfish aquaculture research and farm operations at the Gloucester Point Campus. The intern will primarily shadow and learn from experienced staff, gaining foundational knowledge of shellfish aquaculture practices, research farm operations, and occupational standards within the industry. This position emphasizes observation, assisted participation, and skill development rather than independent responsibility. The overall intent is to support workforce development by preparing individuals for future employment or academic pathways in shellfish aquaculture and related fields. Key Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Shadow and assist staff with routine operations of a shellfish research farm, with duties performed under close supervision. Observe and learn the safe use of power tools and equipment (e.g., drills, saws, generators, pneumatic tools, pumps, pressure washers, marine batteries) used in shellfish farm operations. Assist with basic cleaning, staging, and preparation of shellfish farm gear and supplies while learning maintenance processes. Shadow vessel operations and maintenance activities; assist as appropriate under supervision. Observe and support the building, installation, and repair of equipment under direction from the farm manager. Learn to monitor shellfish growth at various life stages and assist with inventory tracking activities. Participate in harvesting‑related activities (e.g., tumbling, sorting, counting, washing, and bagging shellfish) as a learning experience, following all health and safety requirements. Engage fully in provided training, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. Job Description: Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Demonstrated interest in shellfish aquaculture, marine science, or related fields. Basic understanding of or willingness to learn laboratory and field safety practices. Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines under direct supervision. Ability to follow written and oral instructions. Ability to maintain basic records and accurately record or enter data. Ability to work outdoors and in variable environmental conditions. Ability to travel, as needed. Must be certified, or willing to become certified, to operate a small vessel within one month of hire. Preferred Qualifications Coursework or prior exposure to aquaculture, marine science, or environmental science. Familiarity with small boats or marine environments. Prior internship, volunteer, or seasonal experience in aquaculture, agriculture, or field‑based research. Salary-up to $19.00 per hour commensurate with experience Conditions of Employment This position is a temporary (hourly) internship not to exceed six (6) months. All hourly employees are subject to the Virginia Manpower Control Program; average hours may not exceed 29 per week over a twelve‑month period beginning May 1. This is a non‑exempt position eligible for overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act, as approved by the supervisor. This position is designated as essential and may require reporting to work when the university is officially closed. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Must be certified or become certified to operate a small vessel within one (1) month of hire. This position is restricted, seasonal, and contingent upon the continued availability of funding. Work hours may include early mornings, nights, and weekends depending on farm operations, tides, and research schedules. Additional Job Description: Job Profile: JP0064 - Laboratory & Research Aide - Nonexempt - Hourly - H02 Qualifications: Pay Rate Type: Hourly Compensation Grade: H02 Recruiting Start Date: 2025-12-11 Review Date: Position Restrictions: EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check. Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility. William & Mary and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) are vibrant, innovative and engaged communities and we are delighted about your interest in a career with us.