Program Manager, Aquaculture

Senior Aquaculture Program ManagerAt the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices, working together, increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission. We welcome people from all backgrounds into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.Priority deadline for applications is September 1, 2026 at 8am PST. Due to the volume of incoming applications, the role may be closed earlier than September 1, 2026 at 8am PST.Job Summary: With limited oversight, lead the development and implementation of informed, equitable and practicable strategies to advance global sustainable aquaculture among a diversity of seafood commodity groups in land-based and mariculture systems, from industrialized to small scale production. Develop and maintain Seafood Watch Standard for environmentally sustainable aquaculture, and the assurance mechanisms for tools including Seafood Watch Aquaculture assessments and the Verification Platform. Inform the research and interventions associated with the Seafood Watch Science Team and Monterey Bay Aquarium's global projects geared to enable and accelerate improvements and robust governance for environmentally and socially sustainable aquaculture production. Coordinate across teams with internal and external collaborators, and engagement with collaborative projects including the Aquaculture Governance Indicators, the Seafood Social Risk Tool, the Socioeconomic Learning Framework, biodiversity metrics and other key sustainability indicators. Foster an integrated work plan across teams, ensuring coordination among the Global Programs and Science teams. The Senior Aquaculture Program Manager is Monterey Bay Aquarium's resident expert on sustainable aquaculture, with proficiency in global practices, governance and the systemic issues impeding progress in sustainable aquaculture development. Perform other duties as required.Core Activities:Manage a team of aquaculture scientists to implement and improve the utility and impact of the Seafood Watch Assessment and Verification Platform processes.Lead strategic planning to advance sustainable aquaculture development in conjunction with other teams in the Global Ocean Conservation Department.Ensure research is strategically linked and meets MBA protocols for research transparency and integrity by serving as the senior scientific advisor for aquaculture research projects.Update Seafood Watch Standards; set requirements that are clear and practicable to ensure best practice and reflect latest scientific findings in a manner consistent with a four-year multi-stakeholder, transparent, and inclusive review and revision cycle.Assure consistent application of the Seafood Watch Aquaculture standards to reduce risk and maintain the reputation of SFW and MBA, particularly for high profile or complex assessments.Lead training through hosting regular meetings and workshops to ensure our research products are rigorous, accessible, and provide accurate and reliable results and build our sustainable aquaculture competency, including among staff scientists, research fellows, and contractors.Act as the primary spokesperson and representative on sustainable aquaculture for Monterey Bay Aquarium. This includes participation in relevant technical advisory committees, public and private sector collaborations, workshops, and public presentations or media interviews.Preferred Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (KSAs):Advanced degree in marine or environmental sciencesMinimum of 10 years' experience in aquaculture, or a related fieldMinimum of 5 years' experience in managing research projectsStrong analytical skills with attention to detail and project trackingDemonstration of competent, professional writing skillsDemonstration of competent data management systemsKnowledge of data management and research integrity best practicesStrong organization, communication, facilitation, and active listening skillsProven ability to work effectively among a diversity of team structures and dynamicsAbility to communicate effectively, diplomatically, honestly, and sensitively with all levels of management, staff, and external audiencesDemonstrated initiative, flexibility, and ability to work collaborativelyExtensive travel is required; at least bi-monthly, domestically and internationallyAbility to effectively design and facilitate workshops, meetings, and presentations to engage a diverse audience - both across cultures and sectors including small- and large-scale producers, suppliers, government, academia, and civil society organizations among othersAbility to work within and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium's Core ValuesThe position can be remote or based in Monterey, CaliforniaPhysical Requirements to Perform Essential Job Functions:Typical office equipmentConstant sitting, standing, walking, bendingOccasional unassisted lifting up to 50 lbs.Work is performed typically online, in an office but also overseas in conference/meeting rooms and in remote locations of aquaculture operationsAnnual Compensation Range: $110,700 - $141,000 USD annually. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.