Position Summary
Step into a transformative year of learning, growth, and hands-on experience in Hawai‘i’s blue economy. Inspired by the Hawaiian value ‘imi na‘auao—“to seek wisdom”—this full-time, paid apprenticeship at Symbrosia offers an immersive opportunity to explore regenerative aquaculture, sustainability innovation, and community-driven science.
As a Fellow, you’ll join daily operations at our Kona seaweed production site, rotating through limu cultivation workflows while receiving workforce certifications, technical mentorship, and career development support. This role is designed for local youth, recent graduates, and career changers excited to build their skills and make a lasting impact on Hawai‘i’s food systems and coastal ecosystems.
We’re looking for curious minds and dedicated hands—people who learn by doing, care about community, and want to grow into the future leaders of Hawai‘i’s ocean innovation sector. Whether you're aiming to pursue a career in marine science, build your own limu-based business, or join the workforce in aquaculture, this fellowship provides the tools, network, and support to get there.
Duration & Commitment
Program Length: 12 months
Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week
Start Date: October 6, 2025
Cohort Size: 2-3 fellows
Core Responsibilities
Fellows rotate through quarterly focus areas designed to build applied knowledge, workplace readiness, and technical mastery.
Quarter 1 – Hoʻoulu (Growth & Cultivation)
- Learn algal propagation and hatchery practices
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Support harvesting, drying, and oil extraction operations
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Operate tank systems and collect real-time cultivation data
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Earn skill badges in Aquaculture Equipment Ops, Data Entry, and Electrical Safety
Quarter 2 – Hoʻokele (Foundations)
- Understand the lifecycle of limu kohu Asparagopsis taxiformis
- Practice sterile technique and QA methods in Symbrosia’s wet lab
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Monitor water quality and biosecurity protocols
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Earn skill badges in Spectrophotometry, Wet Lab Safety, and Sterile Technique
Quarter 3 – Hoʻopili (Integration & Industry Readiness)
- Assist with equipment maintenance and system upgrades
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Learn grant writing basics for environmental and research projects
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Draft technical documentation and project narratives
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Earn skill badges in Sensor Maintenance and Grant Writing
Quarter 4 – Hoʻokupu (Giving Back & Specialization)
- Design and lead a capstone project—examples include limu restoration, educational outreach, or tech pilots
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Receive personalized coaching and support for career or academic placement
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Present your work at a community-facing hō‘ike event
Community & Cultural Integration
- Attend huakaʻi (field trips) to loko i‘a and limu restoration sites
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Engage with makua mentors and kūpuna experts
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Build strong peer relationships and join a growing alumni network of local environmental leaders
Who Should Apply
- Ages 18–30, living in Hawai‘i, with a strong interest in ocean, environment, or food systems
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No prior experience required—just a strong work ethic, curiosity, and commitment to growth
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Especially welcoming applicants from Native Hawaiian or underserved communities
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Bonus: Background in farming, Hawaiian Studies, environmental science, or trades
Compensation & Benefits
- $37,000–$42,000 annual salary
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15 days PTO + paid holidays
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Workforce training and certification
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Career coaching and job placement support
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Access to alumni network and continuing education opportunities
Future Pathways May Include
- Full-time employment at Symbrosia or with partner aquaculture/environmental orgs
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Enrollment in UH aquaculture or marine science programs
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Participation in blue foods programming
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Launching a small business or stewardship initiative grounded in limu
