Harvest & Processing Technician

Location:

On location, in Sooke, BC.

Hours:

Variable schedule. Average of 40hrs/week with seasonal overtime and occasional weekend work as required.

Wage:

$20-$25/hr + 4% vacation. Starting wage is dependent on prior skills and experience. Room & board and
transportation costs are included in this role.

United Kelp is seeking a Harvest & Processing Technician to join our team. This is a dynamic, fast-paced role that requires flexibility, including the willingness to work overtime and weekends as needed. Farm days can be long and may require staff to be away from home, and schedules can change due to weather conditions and the needs of our livestock. We are looking for team members who are adaptable and able to work as required to support both processing and farm operations

Company Summary:

United Kelp Cooperative (UKC) is a BC-based marine plant growing, harvesting, processing and manufacturing Co-op. UKC was formed to partner Indigenous Nations with marine agri-food experts, and promote responsible kelp farming and harvesting practices while supporting local economies. United Kelp has worked toward developing a framework for sustainable kelp farming off of BC’s coast. As one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, Kelp absorbs large amounts of carbon and nitrogen, helping to clean coastal waters and combat climate change. Its forests provide habitat for marine life, supporting healthier ecosystems. As Kelp requires no freshwater, fertilizer, or arable land to grow, it’s an incredibly sustainable crop. At the same time, Kelp farming creates new opportunities for coastal communities through job creation and local food system development.

Processing Duties:

• Process kelp-based food products according to established protocols and Standard Operating
  Procedures (SOPs).
• Measure, prepare, and handle raw and processed kelp materials with accuracy and care.
• Monitor production parameters and report any deviations from standards.
• Follow equipment operation and maintenance: Operate, clean, and maintain food processing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform routine equipment checks and document maintenance activities.
• Follow all Quality Assurance (QA) and food safety protocols (e.g., sanitation standards).
• Maintain sanitation logs for facilities, tools, and equipment. Keep accurate records.
• Represent United Kelp professionally when suppliers, distributors, or partners visit the hatchery or processing facility.

Operational Duties:

• Oversee the development of on-shore & grow-out sites for species cultivation.
• Follow sanitation schedules for all farming equipment. Prevent cross-contamination between seeding vessels.
• Make weekly visits to all grow-out sites for infrastructure and species inspections. Log findings and measure trends for weekly operations reporting.
• Perform weekly and monthly checks on all equipment, to include pumps, chillers, lighting, boilers, ventilation, power tools, auxiliary power supply and all critical systems on harvest vessels.
• Maintain certification, regulatory compliance and annual inspection requirements.
• Champion safety policies and safe work procedures among staff in all work environments. Communicate any concerns and provide immediate solutions.
• Produce weekly operations reports to the Management Team. Take ownership of efficiencies for hatchery and harvest operations.
• Contribute to the Operations Worklist via app-driven software, and produce work orders.

Technician Levels:

• Level I: Interest in kelp aquaculture. No prior experience or certifications required.
• Level II: Required certifications include: WHIMAS, Food safe and First aid. Other certifications are an asset.
• Level III: Required certifications include SVOP and Forklift Operator, and a Diploma or Degree in a relevant field. Experience in leadership positions is considered an asset.
• United Kelp is committed to supporting our team’s growth by providing access to training and certifications that help employees develop their skills and advance within the company.

Requirements:

• Demonstrated interest in the marine macro algae industry and aquaculture practices
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Physically able to lift 20–30 lbs independently
• Willing and able to work outdoors year-round in cold, wet conditions
• Flexible and willing to work overtime as required, including:
  • Processing days of 8–10 hours
  • Farming days of up to 12 hours. Farming days are often long and include multiple nights away from home. The right candidate will be available to travel as required.