IMMEDIATE OPENING:

Koi Pond Operations Manager

Koi fish gathered together in the koi pond

Location: Poolesville, Maryland

Compensation: $45,000/year (with performance-based salary growth opportunities)

Status: Full-Time, On-site

Start Date: Immediate

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Koi Pond Operations Manager to oversee the daily operations, maintenance, and expansion of our growing koi breeding farm. You will work directly with the pond owner to manage the health and environment of our koi, supervise the maintenance team, and drive infrastructure improvements. This is an ideal role for someone with a passion for aquaculture, a strong mechanical aptitude, and the desire to grow within a specialized agricultural environment.

Key Responsibilities

Systems Management: Oversee the operation of multi-pond filtration systems (including bead filters and bog filtration). Perform complex troubleshooting and system optimizations.
Livestock Health & Welfare: Monitor koi health in coordination with our on-site team and consulting aquatic veterinarian. Lead biosecurity protocols and assist in health examinations (e.g., performing/assisting with microscopic skin/gill scrapes).
Operational Oversight: Coordinate with volunteers and support staff to ensure routine tasks (feeding, basic water testing, pond cleaning) are completed to our standard.
Infrastructure Projects: Work directly with the owner to plan and execute improvements to the pond environment, including hardware upgrades and landscaping projects.
Data & Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of water chemistry, health treatments, and breeding data.

Qualifications & Requirements

Technical Aptitude: Experience with plumbing, pump systems, or high-capacity aquatic filtration is highly preferred.
The “Willing to Learn” Factor: While we have deep institutional knowledge—including how to perform microscopic diagnostics—you must have the aptitude and curiosity to master these skills rapidly.
Biosecurity Mindset: A proactive approach to preventing cross-contamination and maintaining a pristine aquatic environment.
Leadership: Ability to communicate effectively with volunteer staff and provide clear, actionable instructions.
Adaptability: A “hands-on” work ethic. You will be expected to jump between administrative planning and active, physical work in the ponds.

Compensation & Benefits

Starting Salary: $45,000 per year.

Growth Potential: We are committed to salary increases as the candidate demonstrates independent management of complex system areas.

Benefits: This position provides a competitive base pay calculated to allow the employee to select and secure individual health coverage through the Maryland Health Exchange.

Apply for This Position

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Professional & Pond Ecosystem Experience
Please provide a summary of your experience with aquatic health, water quality maintenance (ammonia/nitrite/nitrate cycles), filtration systems, and koi health management:

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Affirmations & Consents

Background Check Consent *

I authorize a comprehensive background check as a condition of employment to ensure the safety of our community and animals. I understand any history of violence or harm will disqualify my application. I understand that Kunzang Palyul Choling Buddhist Temple may conduct a criminal background check as part of the hiring process; however, this inquiry will only be conducted after a conditional offer of employment has been extended.

Respect for Values *

I acknowledge this position operates within a Buddhist environment at Kunzang Palyul Choling. I agree to respect the authority of the Spiritual Guide and follow her guidance regarding the care, welfare, and development of our koi and pond ecosystems.

UNDER MARYLAND LAW, AN EMPLOYER MAY NOT REQUIRE OR DEMAND, AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT, PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYMENT, OR CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT, THAT AN INDIVIDUAL SUBMIT TO OR TAKE A LIE DETECTOR OR SIMILAR TEST. AN EMPLOYER WHO VIOLATES THIS LAW IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR AND SUBJECT TO A FINE NOT EXCEEDING $100.

Acknowledgement *

By checking this box, I affirm that I have read, understand, and agree to the above terms.

Kunzang Palyul Choling is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or disability.

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Application Received! Our team will be in touch if your background is a good match for our pond ecosystems.

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