Aquaculture Internships for Massachusetts (AIM)
Aquaculture – growing aquatic life – is the world’s fastest growing food sector. Massachusetts is no exception, with oyster aquaculture representing the third most valuable marine food product, and the state’s fifth most valuable agricultural product. Nearly 400 shellfish farms in Massachusetts, as well as a handful of seaweed and finfish operations have a growing need for a strong workforce. Beyond the farm, many other operations are essential for the success of the industry – from hatcheries, to seafood processing and wholesaler shipping, to restaurant and market relations. In addition, aquaculture plays an important role in supporting recreational shellfishing, coastal restoration, and value-added ingredients to a myriad of products, from fertilizer to farm feed. All these operations are hungry to find hardworking personnel who will shepherd this industry to reach its ever-increasing potential to support sustainable jobs and economic growth for the communities of the Commonwealth. But most people have not had an opportunity to explore the sector in any way because there is no clear pathway to try it out.
We aim to connect great workers with the rewarding field of aquaculture!
The Aquaculture Internships for Massachusetts (AIM) program is seeking folks who may or may not have any prior experience with aquaculture, or even with working near the water. In 2024, we trained and placed three individuals into 6-month paid internships. We aim to double that success for 2025!
AIM is a collaborative partnership with MIT Sea Grant, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant, and Cape Cod Cooperative Extension.
Apply Today!
The Aquaculture Internships for Massachusetts program continues to accept applications on a rolling basis! Looking for a chance to explore aquaculture as a potential career, and eager to work outside in the elements in a physically demanding job? Just need a foot in the door, or a bit of help along the way? Apply today!
Many farmers are looking for full-time help during the autumn months when many of their summer workers have returned to school. We aim to help fill their need for workers, while giving you a chance to break into the industry and find a new future in the world of ocean farming.
What’s the process? Submit an application. The Sea Grant team will review applications as they are received and then share strong applicants with potential Host Site farmers within commuting distance of where you live, for their review. If the Host Site chooses to move forward, you may get to work with them (with pay – $17.50/hr) for a couple days on a trial basis, or be hired directly after they meet you. If you are hired, they will pay you at least $17.50/hr. In addition, MIT Sea Grant will give you $300 a week for up to 26 weeks to help with commuting and possible relocation housing costs, and you’ll receive some foul weather gear to help you be comfortable in your new venture!
FAQs
Will I get paid?
This is a paid internship! If you land a full internship, you will be paid at least $17.50/hour for at least 30 hours/week. You will also be provided housing/transportation support that will reduce housing costs by as much as $225 per week. Prior to the hiring stage, you will also receive $100 stipends for participating in the training and farm visits.
Where would I be working?
Most of our Host Sites are shellfish farms. These farms operate in nearshore waters, sometimes accessible by boat, but some others reach their site at low tide, never setting foot on a boat. Some of our Host Sites may come from other parts of the sector (e.g. shellfish hatcheries, wholesalers who operate shipping warehouses, town governments who manage shellfish in their waters.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. You must be 18 years old or older to participate in this program.
Do I have to know how to swim?
No, but it is helpful to be comfortable around the water. Some positions do not require being on a boat, or in the water, and life jackets are always an option. But, some comfort with swimming is preferred.
Are there other restrictions for who can apply?
All Trainees/Interns must be US citizens or have “Tax Residency” in the US.
What are the physical demands of this kind of work?
The physicality of each role within aquaculture varies, but most positions require some capacity to lift heavy objects. Hatchery workers need to be able to carry buckets of water. Rooms are sometimes particularly cold or warm, and things are generally wet.
Shellfish farms operate in the environment, and farmhands need to be prepared for inclement conditions (extreme heat, cold, wind) as well as some marvelously beautiful days on which there is no better “office setting” than an oyster farm. Some of the farming gear may exceed 60 pounds, though farmhands usually are working as part of a team, and many of the physically smaller farmers find collaborative solutions to manage any such heavy loads. To be successful in this field, you need to be comfortable outdoors and with physical demands such as these.
Application Deadline:
Applications considered on a rolling basis. Apply today!
Questions? Contact:
Danny Badger
Marine Extension Specialist — Aquaculture
617-253-9308
