Top 5 Careers in the Marine Resources/ Fisheries Industry

So, what are the top 5 careers in the marine resources/ fisheries industry?

The Canadian marine resources and fisheries industry is a cornerstone of the Canadian economy and way of life for the 7 million Canadians living in coastal communities.

Canada is a global leader in sustainable fisheries management and aquaculture production by having the second-largest single food export, reaching 140 countries worldwide. 

This reputation has been aided by having the world’s longest coastline and access to the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans.

As the global demand for seafood rises and environmental challenges persist, the need for skilled professionals in the marine resources and fisheries sector has never been greater.

Here are the 5 top career paths in this industry that are crucial for maintaining Canada’s reputation in the global marine resource and fisheries sector. 

1. Fishery Officer

• Salary Range (CAD): $45,656/yr to $97,136/yr 
• Job Description: Fishery officers monitor fishery operations by land, sea, and air to ensure compliance with regulations and protect aquatic resources, including habitats and species at risk. They also educate the public on conservation, conduct patrols and investigations to detect and document illegal activities, and support legal enforcement. Fishery officers also perform and manage compliance investigations and create reports to document their work. 
• Required Technical Skills: 
  • Public Engagement and Education
  • Law Enforcement and Compliance Monitoring 
  • Licensing and Resource Management 

2. Aquaculture Technician 

• Salary Range (CAD): $39,520/yr to $83,886.4/yr 
• Job Description: Aquaculture technicians support aquaculturists and fisheries personnel by assisting in hatchery operations, feeding and monitoring aquatic stock, and maintaining equipment and enclosures. They perform tasks such as preparing and repairing ropes, nets, and cages, operating machinery, and harvesting and transporting fish. Additionally, they adhere to safety protocols, assist in stock management, and may engage in activities like scuba diving for equipment maintenance and brood fish collection. 
• Required Technical Skills: 
  • Animal Husbandry 
  • Equipment Repair
  • Data Analysis

3. Stock Assessment Technician

• Salary Range (CAD): $47,872/yr to $58,244/yr 
• Job Description: Stock assessment technicians operate and maintain field equipment, conduct stock assessments for salmonids, and collect and analyze data to prepare summary reports using software like Excel and Access. Responsibilities include applying acoustic enumeration techniques, working in remote and challenging conditions, and collaborating with diverse groups, including First Nations communities and government agencies. Additionally, the role requires preparing technical or scientific reports to support assessment and management efforts. 
• Required Technical Skills: 
  • Data Management 
  • Stock Assessments of Fish
  • Database Design

4. Fisheries Specialist

• Salary Range (CAD): $51,000/yr to $79,000/yr 
• Job Description: Fisheries specialists balance ecological sustainability and economic interests by creating and enforcing management plans, monitoring aquatic ecosystems, and updating regulations based on scientific knowledge. They conduct research, field surveys, and restoration projects to support conservation efforts while collaborating with communities, industry groups, and environmental organizations. Additionally, they provide technical expertise, lead educational initiatives, and ensure compliance with fisheries laws through inspections and outreach. 
• Required Technical Skills: 
  • Aquatic Habitat Assessment 
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing
  • Species Identification

5. Aquatic Science Biologist

• Salary Range (CAD): $57,000/yr to $75,000/yr 
• Job Description: An aquatic biologist studies freshwater and marine ecosystems, examining their ecology and life-sustaining properties, which may include specific plant or animal life or entire ecosystems. They often work in academic, governmental, or industrial settings to research, influence aquatic ecosystem policies, and develop strategies for protecting aquatic environments. Their responsibilities include field research, sample collection and analysis, observing aquatic life, preparing reports, presenting findings, and securing research funding through grant proposals. 
• Required Technical Skills: 
  • Data Analysis 
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Policy and Strategy Development

As Canada’s marine resources and fisheries industry continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economy and cultural identity.

For those passionate about marine conservation, scientific research, or sustainable resource management, these careers offer the opportunity to enhance the way of life for Canada’s coastal communities and the nation’s economic future.

As the industry evolves, these roles will be crucial in shaping policies, implementing innovative practices, and safeguarding Canada’s reputation in the sector. 

NOTE: The job requirements for each highlighted career path may vary depending on the company that is offering opportunities for these career paths. Moreover, the salaries for these career paths depend on the city or province you are located in, educational attainment, and the companies’ stated salaries for these job opportunities.