Hatchery Management Expert

Organizational Context

Since 2022, Guyana has prioritized the modernization of its aquaculture sector, focusing on Litopenaeus vannamei (Pacific white leg shrimp) to enhance food security, reduce imports, and create employment. A national shrimp hatchery was established to supply quality post-larvae, but it faces challenges in consistent, large-scale production. To address this, FAO is implementing a project to strengthen hatchery operations through expert technical assistance, standardized protocols, and staff training. This role supports the startup of the Mon Repos Shrimp Hatchery, preparing for broodstock receipt and aiming for independent national management.

Job Purpose

The Hatchery Management Expert will lead the day-to-day startup and commissioning of the Mon Repos Shrimp Hatchery operations, ensuring readiness for the arrival of imported broodstock within two months. A key aspect of this role is to provide structured, on-the-job training and mentoring to national counterparts. The objective is to equip the national team with the necessary skills and knowledge to independently operate and manage a fully functioning hatchery, adhering to international best practices for L. vannamei hatcheries. This will involve establishing operational systems, protocols, and ensuring the overall stabilization of the hatchery.

Responsibilities

The expert will establish and operate the Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), ensuring its proper functioning, maintenance, and adherence to optimal water quality parameters. This includes implementing appropriate biosecurity, environmental control, and animal welfare standards, and preparing a commissioning checklist for RAS and critical equipment. Responsibilities also cover broodstock management, including preparing tanks, testing parameters, overseeing nutrition and health protocols, and developing/implementing receiving, quarantine, and acclimation procedures. The role involves supporting spawning operations and providing hands-on training and mentoring to national technicians on biosecurity, environmental control, and animal welfare. Furthermore, the expert will maintain technical records, develop and hand over Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and log sheets, train staff on their use, provide regular technical updates, and contribute to adaptive management through evidence-based recommendations.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience in shrimp aquaculture is required. Demonstrated expertise in managing penaeid shrimp maturation systems is crucial. Experience in establishing and operating hatchery systems, including RAS, and providing technical training and mentoring to national staff is highly desirable.

Skills

The role requires strong practical and theoretical knowledge of L. vannamei broodstock management, maturation stages, spawning, and nauplii production. Proven experience in hands-on training and mentoring of technical staff is essential. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to work in operational hatchery environments for extended periods, with a high attention to detail, quality control, and animal welfare standards. Effective communication, teamwork, relationship building, and knowledge sharing are also key competencies.

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