‘Imi Na‘auao Apprenticeship

Symbrosia Inc. • Full-time • Kailua Kona, Hawaii, United States • USD $37k - USD $42k / year • 3m ago

Vocational blue economy training program for those seeking to increase their wisdom in regenerative aquaculture, applied science, and community impact.

About Symbrosia inc

At Symbrosia, our mission is to deliver scalable marine biomass solutions to the world’s most pressing problems. Our first product is a natural seaweed feed additive that reduces livestock methane emissions by 80%+ and makes animals more productive. The world’s 1 billion cows collectively cause 6% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions by burping out massive quantities of methane, a greenhouse gas 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Called “the seaweed that could save the planet” by The Verge, Forbes, and The Washington Post, Symbrosia’s product is unmatched in value to ranchers and environmental impact. Symbrosia breeds and cultivates fast-growing seaweed strains in Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i.

Description

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
Support harvesting, drying, and oil extraction operations
Operate tank systems and collect real-time cultivation data
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
Monitor water quality and biosecurity protocols
Earn skill badges in Spectrophotometry, Wet Lab Safety, and Sterile Technique

Quarter 3 – Hoʻopili (Integration & Industry Readiness)

Assist with equipment maintenance and system upgrades
Learn grant writing basics for environmental and research projects
Draft technical documentation and project narratives
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
Receive personalized coaching and support for career or academic placement
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
Engage with makua mentors and kūpuna experts
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
No prior experience required—just a strong work ethic, curiosity, and commitment to growth
Especially welcoming applicants from Native Hawaiian or underserved communities
Bonus: Background in farming, Hawaiian Studies, environmental science, or trades

Compensation & Benefits

$37,000–$42,000 annual salary
15 days PTO + paid holidays
Workforce training and certification
Career coaching and job placement support
Access to alumni network and continuing education opportunities

Future Pathways May Include

Full-time employment at Symbrosia or with partner aquaculture/environmental orgs
Enrollment in UH aquaculture or marine science programs
Participation in blue foods programming
Launching a small business or stewardship initiative grounded in limu