Freshwater Lead Hand/Supervisor

Cooke is a global seafood company with operations in North America, Europe, and South America. Our company’s success is driven by our dynamic, highly skilled and innovative management team, supported by dedicated employees who live in coastal communities and contribute to the local area’s economy and sense of community. 

The Role  

The Freshwater Lead Hand/Supervisor is responsible for guiding and supporting a team of employees in the daily operations of freshwater smolt rearing. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership responsibilities to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. The Lead Hand assists management with day-to-day facility operations while supervising staff, overseeing production activities, and maintaining compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Supervision 

• Assist the manager in daily facility operations by guiding and supervising a team of employees. 
• Supervise production processes and employee performance. 
• Enforce company policies, procedures, and safety standards. 
• Monitor employee breaks and lunches and address any related issues. 
• Coach, oversee, and direct team members to ensure efficient workflow. 
• Provide on-the-job training and guidance to team members. 
• Assist with task assignments and scheduling. 
• Lead a small team of 2–10 employees. 
• Identify and address potential operational issues or bottlenecks. 
• Work collaboratively with management to achieve departmental goals. 

Production & Technical Operations 

• Oversee daily hatchery and smolt rearing activities, including feeding, grading, vaccination, and related production tasks. 
• Manage and monitor water quality in RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture Systems). 
• Operate and oversee technical equipment and production processes. 
• Respond to alarms and emergency situations as required. 
• Perform and oversee daily hatchery routines to ensure optimal fish health and performance. 

Data, Documentation & Compliance 

• Collect, record, and manage production and operational data accurately. 
• Complete all required documentation in a timely and accurate manner. 
• Utilize computer databases and data platforms for reporting and tracking. 
• Participate in internal and external audits (e.g., BAP, Safety). 
• Always ensure adherence to quality standards and safety procedures. 

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in freshwater smolt rearing or hatchery operations. 
• Strong technical knowledge of facility systems, processes, and procedures. 
• Demonstrated leadership ability with sound judgment and decision-making skills. 
• Ability to lead, motivate, and supervise a small team. 
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment. 
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence. 
• Ability to comply with all company safety requirements. 
• Ability to work in varied indoor and outdoor environmental conditions. 

Working Conditions:

• Cold and wet environment; some hatcheries operate in outdoor climates. 
• Fast-paced operational setting. 
• Flexible work schedule, including evenings, weekends, on-call, and irregular hours as required.

The role description is just one part of the story. This is an opportunity to grow, to work within the parameters of the role but to reach your fullest potential. We are a team that is driven to succeed. We count performance, we reward contribution, and we recognize talent.  It is about being at the center of a growing, global leader in seafood and knowing you are part of that growth. The ability to bring your passion for learning, desire for growth and energy for moving your career forward is what we offer. 

The Why

Why Cooke? Simple – we are a company that rewards initiative, resourcefulness and work ethic.  We will champion your growth and provide you with the platform to create your path, your career, and your future.

NOTE: The recruiter is reviewing and interviewing eligible applicants for this position as they are received. If you are interested in this posting, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

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