July 21, 2020
Seafood processor (both shore and seagoing)
This job title encompasses several different jobs, each with their own unique functions and responsibilities. Factory workers, factory supervisors and food quality inspectors may all work together under a factory manager aboard a single fishing vessel – typically a large factory freezer that can spend months at a time out at sea.
These jobs entail working with food processing machinery and thereby require the requisite training, usually at a shore fish processing facility. Food science qualifications may be required. Job descriptions may include grading and packaging of processed items. Seafood process workers may work interchangeably on land or at sea, but generally the job begins in a shore facility.
The increasing prevalence of quality control in fishing has resulted in a growing number of opportunities for food quality inspectors, particularly as markets become more competitive and discerning. The food quality inspector must monitor bacteria count, fish odours and flavour, blemishes, and freshness, to name just some of the considerations.
Key tasks:
• Handle processing machinery.
• Grade and pack fish.
• Clean and maintain equipment.
• Packaging and Labelling.
• Inventory Management.
Entry requirements/training:
Seafood processing includes a wide range of job types at various levels, from entry-level factory workers where no formal prior training is required (and only basic level of education) to relatively well qualified positions. All posts involve extensive in-house training and familiarisation with plant machinery, whether at sea or ashore. Factory supervisors would require some form of management training, while food quality inspectors would require experience in food production and knowledge of food laws. A SAMSA-accredited certificate is required.
Career advancement:
Entry-level workers can progress to more senior factory positions via accredited training, while food quality inspectors might consider a degree in food science and employment in other processing plants.
Associated job opportunities:
Individuals with experience as Seafood Processors may explore various associated job opportunities within and outside the traditional roles in seafood processing plants. Here are some potential career paths and associated job opportunities:
• Food Safety Specialist
• Food Quality Control Manager
• Supply Chain Coordinator
• Aquaculture Technician
• Fisheries Observer Coordinator
