Shellfish Processing Plant Manager

Job Description

<h3>Job Description</h3><p>Job Description<p><p><strong>Shellfish Processing Plant Manage</strong><strong>r</strong></p><p><strong>Shellfish Processing Plant Manager</strong><br /><em>Full-Time | Port Alberni, BC | $65,000 - $120,000 per year</em><br /><strong>Nova Harvest Ltd.</strong></p><p>Nova Harvest Ltd. and HFN Fisheries LP have partnered to create a cutting-edge shellfish processing facility—BC’s first dedicated <strong>High-Pressure Processing (HPP)</strong> plant for oysters. We’re not just building a plant. We’re building a bold new future for shellfish in BC: one grounded in <strong>sustainability</strong>, <strong>technology</strong>, and a shared commitment to making premium, local seafood more <strong>accessible to the world</strong>.</p><p>Our mission is to <strong>reshape the BC shellfish industry</strong>—unlocking year-round markets, developing innovative, value-added oyster products, and creating a more resilient, efficient seafood value chain. HPP technology brings efficiency, food safety, and shucking automation to the forefront—helping reduce waste, extend shelf life, and streamline operations.</p><p>We’re targeting a <strong>Fall 2025 launch</strong>, and we’re looking for someone <strong>entrepreneurial, hands-on, and passionate to take a lead role in establishing operations</strong>—someone who thrives in the energy of a startup, who wants to be a key player in building a business from the ground up, and who sees <strong>problems as puzzles to solve</strong>.</p><p><strong>Why Join Us?</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Shape a new seafood sector</strong> – Help build the first facility of its kind in BC and define what modern shellfish processing can look like</li><li><strong>Make a big impact</strong> – You’ll be one of the first team members in a high-growth company, with real decision-making power</li><li><strong>Growth path</strong> – As we expand, so does this role—into senior leadership, product innovation, and cross-functional strategy</li><li><strong>Work with purpose</strong> – Be part of a company that cares deeply about <strong>sustainable seafood</strong>, <strong>Indigenous economic development</strong>, and <strong>lean, innovative production</strong></li><li><strong>Benefits include</strong> extended health and dental, vacation pay (4%), relocation assistance, and training in advanced processing tech</li></ul><p><strong>What You’ll Do</strong></p><ul><li>Lead all processing, packaging, inventory, and plant logistics for a one-of-a-kind HPP operation</li><li>Develop new systems, train staff, and establish company culture and standards</li><li>Maintain rigorous <strong>HACCP and PCP protocols to maintain CFIA compliance</strong></li><li>Build and lead a small team with a focus on performance, respect, and continuous improvement</li><li>Collaborate with founding partners to track KPIs, reduce costs, and grow new product lines</li><li>Actively contribute to product innovation, operational planning, and long-term business strategy</li></ul><p><strong>This Role Is for You If You Are:</strong></p><ul><li>Passionate about <strong>sustainable food systems</strong>, <strong>local seafood</strong>, and <strong>purpose-driven business</strong></li><li>Excited to work in a <strong>startup-style environment</strong></li><li>A <strong>strong self-starter</strong> with a strong business mindset and problem-solving ability</li><li>Experienced in food/seafood processing and plant operations (2–3+ years preferred)</li><li>Familiar with <strong>HACCP and SQF certification</strong>, and traceability systems (ERP or inventory software a plus)</li><li>Skilled in leading and motivating teams while driving a safety- and quality-first culture with proven results</li><li>Hands-on and practical—comfortable lifting 50 lbs, operating forklifts, solving mechanical challenges and understanding of equipment maintenance</li><li>Curious, adaptable, and eager to be involved in everything from sanitation to sales planning.</li></ul><p><strong>Minimum Requirements</strong></p><ul><li>Secondary school diploma (required); business, food science, or trades training an asset.</li><li>2-3 years of management experience in a food processing operation (seafood preferred)</li><li>Valid Driver’s Licence</li><li>Strong communication, scheduling, and inventory management skills</li><li>Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word)</li></ul><p><strong>About Port Alberni</strong></p><p>Port Alberni is a coastal city surrounded by ocean and rainforest on Vancouver Island. With world-class salmon fishing, trails, and affordable living, it is the perfect home base for anyone who wants to combine meaningful work with an incredible quality of life.</p><p><strong>Be Part of the Change.</strong></p><p>This is a <strong>rare opportunity</strong> to join an early-stage, mission-driven seafood company and help <strong>launch a new chapter for BC aquaculture</strong>. If you’re excited by sustainable food, hands-on operations, and building something from scratch—you might be the person we’re looking for.</p><p><strong>To Apply:</strong><br />Email your résumé, cover letter, and two references to <strong><span >info@novaharvest.com</span></strong> with <strong>“Processing Plant Manager Applicant”</strong> in the subject line.</p></p></p>