Vessel Operator/Maintenance Lead / Captain (non-licensed) at Bangs Island Mussels

Vessel Operator / Maintenance Lead / Captain (non-licensed) Wild Ocean Aquaculture, LLC dba Bangs Island Mussels Purpose The Vessel Operator / Maintenance Lead captains our dedicated maintenance vessel, and leads the crew responsible for farm site infrastructure, crop protection, and ongoing system maintenance in Casco Bay. This vessel and crew serve as the backbone of the farm by keeping the lease sites and rafts in peak growing condition. Crew safety, leadership, problem-solving, and efficient, organized work are the top priorities for this position. Reports To The Vessel Operator / Maintenance Lead reports directly to the Farm Manager. Job Overview This is a full-time, year-round, hourly position based on Portland’s working waterfront. This is a “working captain” position: the Vessel Operator / Maintenance Lead commands M/V Anna Marie while directly participating in the hands-on work of cleaning, repairing, and replacing predation prevention nets on our mussel rafts and other farm duties. The Vessel Operator / Maintenance Lead leads and trains a crew of 3–5 deckhands and technicians, oversees gear longevity and infrastructure maintenance, and serves as relief captain on other vessels, as needed. This role requires a unique blend of maritime skills, physical labor, and technical ingenuity. Most of the work is done on the water, either on work boats or on the mussel rafts themselves. The rest of the work is on land at the wharf facility or net yard. Essential Responsibilities Vessel Command & Operations Command M/V Anna Marie and safely navigate around farm sites, rafts, and lines in Casco Bay in varied sea and weather conditions. Anna Marie is a 46’ “Novi” style work boat with mast, boom, net reel, haulers, and extensive hydraulic system. Safely operate smaller workboats as needed. Serve as a relief captain on our other vessels as needed. Net Operations & Crop Protection Lead the cleaning, repair, hauling, and replacement of predation prevention nets across mussel rafts. Oversee gear longevity and manage net change schedules. Infrastructure & Mechanical Maintenance Oversee mooring maintenance, power washing, and raft repairs in compliance with state aquaculture regulations. Act as the first line of defense for mechanical issues; perform routine troubleshooting and preventive maintenance on diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and pneumatic tools. Assist in designing, building, and fixing farm infrastructure and mechanical systems, including rafts, moorings, conveyors, water plumbing, and chain-driven machinery. Crew Leadership Supervise, train, and mentor a crew of 3–5 deckhands and technicians, ensuring safety, efficiency, and a positive team culture. Direct daily crew tasks and maintain clear daily communication with the crew and the Farm Manager. Farm Operations Participate in “all-hands” farm tasks as needed, including mussel harvesting, seeding/socking, planting and harvesting kelp, and supporting oyster farm operations. Safety & Training Establish, enforce, and continually train the crew on maritime safety protocols, emergency procedures, and safe equipment operation. Maintain a continuous culture of safety on deck and on the rafts, including safe manual handling and risk management. Maintain safety logs and document crew safety training. Data, Records & Compliance Maintain accurate digital logs and spreadsheets, including net change schedules, safety logs, gear tracking, equipment maintenance, and environmental observations. Assist with farm research projects and scientific observations on the farm. Job Requirements No previous aquaculture experience required; thorough aquaculture training provided. Unwavering commitment to crew safety, risk management, and deck safety training. A self-starter with grit and the drive to solve problems independently. Interest and willingness to perform physical labor. Proven experience operating a commercial vessel of at least 4…

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