Deputy Farm Manager, Catfish Grow-Out & Fish Feed Production Worker at LAJ Aquaculture & Farmacology

Primary Sites:

• Site 1: Shinge Road, Opposite ERRC Graceland, Lafia, Nasarawa State
• Site 2: No. 15 Kwandere Road, Kwamka, Behind Na Allah Company

Reports To: Farm Manager

Job Summary

The Deputy Farm Manager, Catfish Grow-Out & Fish Feed Production Worker supports the Farm Manager in all aquaculture operations. The role focuses on catfish grow-out, water quality management, fish health monitoring, farm maintenance, and on-farm feed production. The postholder ensures that production targets are achieved and may oversee operations when the Farm Manager is absent.

Key Responsibilities

Catfish Grow-Out Operations

• Execute daily grow-out activities from stocking through to harvest.
• Feed fish based on growth stage and FCR targets.
• Monitor feeding behaviour and adjust feed quantities as required.
• Observe fish daily for stress, abnormal swimming, lesions, or disease.
• Assist in periodic grading to maintain uniform size.
• Record feed usage, growth measurements, size sampling, and mortalities.

Fish Feed Production

• Produce high-quality catfish feed using the farm’s formula and machinery.
• Weigh and mix ingredients accurately according to specifications.
• Operate grinder, mixer, pelletiser, and dryer safely.
• Dry, bag, label, and store feed appropriately.
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness in the feedmill.
• Track ingredient inventory and report shortages promptly.

Water Quality & Pond/Tank Management

• Monitor water levels, temperature, clarity, and general pond/tank conditions.
• Assist with water exchange, flushing, and basic water quality testing (DO, pH, ammonia).
• Clean ponds, tanks, hapas, and inlet/outlet structures as scheduled.
• Remove sludge, debris, and mortalities promptly.
• Report abnormalities in water quality or infrastructure.

Stock Handling, Harvesting & Fish Health

• Assist with stocking, netting, sorting, and transportation of fish.
• Support partial and complete harvesting activities.
• Follow strict biosecurity procedures at all times.
• Assist with approved treatments under supervision.
• Keep accurate treatment, disease, and mortality records.

Farm Maintenance & Operations

• Operate pumps, generators, aerators, blowers, and basic hand tools.
• Perform minor equipment repairs and report major faults urgently.
• Maintain general farm cleanliness and ensure safe working conditions.
• Supervise casual staff as assigned.

Administrative & Supervisory Support

• Keep daily production logs and operational reports.
• Maintain inventory of feed ingredients, medications, fuel, and materials.
• Enforce farm rules, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Provide support functions to ensure efficient farm operations.

Stepping Up to Managerial Responsibility

• Assume full operational leadership when delegated by the Farm Manager.
• Oversee all farm workers and coordinate daily activities in the Farm Manager’s absence.
• Make operational decisions necessary to maintain fish welfare, water quality, and production continuity.
• Communicate urgent issues or significant abnormalities to management promptly.
• Ensure that all SOPs, safety standards, and production protocols are maintained during the transition period.
• Provide detailed handover notes to the Farm Manager upon their return.

Requirements

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Fisheries, Aquaculture, Animal Science, Biology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of cognate experience in aquaculture, fish production, or related environments.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Physically fit, hardworking, honest, and reliable.
• Ability to follow procedures and maintain accurate records.

Desirable Skills

• Basic understanding of water quality management and fish health.
• Experience operating aquaculture and feed production equipment.
• Prior supervisory experience with junior or casual workers.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Training and career advancement opportunities in aquaculture and feed production.
• Clear pathway into senior management roles for high-performing staff.

Staff Welfare & Mandatory Health Insurance (NHIA GIFSHIP)

• All staff are enrolled in the NHIA GIFSHIP programme.

Key Details:

• Annual premium: ₦38,200
• Instalments: Four payments of ₦9,550
• Monthly equivalent: ₦3,200
• Nationwide healthcare access
• Company covers registration and NHIA ID card issuance