About Us:
Founded in 1899, Rappahannock Oyster Co. is a family-owned business that has helped shape the modern oyster renaissance, providing premium oysters to some of the world's greatest restaurants. Beyond farming, we are leaders in sustainable aquaculture, passionate stewards of the Chesapeake Bay, and proud innovators in the seafood industry — featured by The TODAY Show, Food & Wine, New York Times, and more.
We’re looking for curious, dependable, and hardworking individuals to join our farming team. This is an opportunity to be part of a company where craftsmanship, stewardship, and innovation are at the heart of everything we do.
Position Overview
As a Skiff Operator, you’ll spend most of your day on the water, captaining a 27’ Carolina Skiff across our oyster farms. Precision, care, and attention to detail are critical: each cage you move directly impacts the success of our harvests. This is a role for someone who loves working outdoors, thrives on responsibility, and understands that small details make a big difference.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate a 27’ Carolina Skiff to move and manage oyster cages across farm sites.
- Carefully pick up, transport, and redeploy cages — ensuring oysters are never misplaced or damaged.
- Follow detailed to-do lists and record work with diligent, accurate notes.
- Help maintain boats, equipment, and farming areas to company standards.
- Work alongside the broader farm team to support planting, grading, and harvesting as needed.
What We’re Looking For
- Comfortable spending long periods on the water, in a boat, in varying weather conditions.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to work systematically without supervision.
- Good communication skills and a commitment to team success.
- Valid Driver’s License required.
- Virginia Boater Safety Certificate preferred — if you don't already have one, you must obtain it upon hiring (we’ll help guide you through it!).
- Physically capable of lifting up to 40 pounds and working in an active, outdoor environment.
- Passion for sustainability, aquaculture, and the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.
Be Part of Our Story
At Rappahannock Oyster Co., we believe that great food starts with great farmers — and great farmers are made through passion, patience, and precision. If you’re ready to build a career with purpose (and a pretty great view every day), we’d love to hear from you.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary, Internship
Benefits:
- 401(k) with company match
- Health, vision, and dental insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Employee discount
Schedule & Location:
- Typical schedule: 8-hour shifts, Monday–Friday (occasional Sundays).
- Position is based at our farm in Topping, VA 23169.
- Candidates must be able to reliably commute or relocate before starting work.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary, Internship
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Topping, VA 23169 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Topping, VA 23169: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
