2026 Job Post: Farm Intern

About Hama Hama:

Family owned and operated for six generations, we’re a shellfish and timber farm located on the eastern slopes of the Olympic Peninsula. Our reputation for quality is built on hard work and clean water. Our mission is pretty simple: use low impact farming methods to grow world-class oysters and trees, have fun, and leave something good for those who will come after us. 

Position Summary: 

Hama Hama Oyster Company is looking for positive, self-motivated individuals who are interested in gaining hands-on job experience while learning about sustainable shellfish farming. Our ideal candidate would be excited to work once a week in our oyster saloon to connect with the public and learn more about the aquatourism piece of our business. 

Timeframe: Tuesday - Friday at the farm and Saturday in our Oyster Saloon

What to Expect:

No experience with shellfish aquaculture is required, but applicants must meet the qualifications listed below.  Our interns learn a variety of aspects of working on an oyster farm. Objectives include:

• Learn what characterizes a great oyster and how to sort oysters by size and quality.
• Learn techniques for farming different oyster species in a variety of locations with multiple growing methods.
• Assist with general maintenance and cleaning tasks.
• Learn how to care for oyster seed and FLUPSY (oyster nursery) best practices.
• Participate in the harvesting process and transport of shellfish from farm sites to Hama Hama Headquarters.
• Participate in post-harvest processing and fulfillment operations.
• Become familiar with operating boats and other farm-related equipment.

Make connections between farm to table and learn about shucking and serving oysters in restaurants through summer shifts in the Oyster Saloon.

Requirements/Qualifications:

• Must be able to work flexible hours including weekends and nights to accommodate the tide schedule and saloon shifts.
• Must be comfortable working in inclement outdoor conditions and in an indoor refrigerated environment.
• This is physically demanding work, which at times involves extended periods of repetitive and strenuous work.
• Individuals must adhere to all safety standards, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must be able to speak/understand English and communicate respectfully with coworkers. Spanish language skills are a plus.
• You must enjoy long walks on the beach. 
• Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Interns living in shared housing must be respectful of their roommates, and abide by the rules laid out in the housing benefit agreement. 
• Position requires exerting up to 20-50 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. 
• Movement includes climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, manual dexterity, talking, hearing, repetitive motion, and standing for extended periods. 
• Work environment includes exposure to heat and cold of indoor and outdoor environment
• Risk associated with forklift, work in the intertidal, motor vehicles and water craft; sharp knives (cut risk); risk associated with lifting; and wet or uneven ground surfaces.

Total Rewards:

This is a Temporary 1-year/Full-Time position with an on-site work schedule. Expected schedule will vary and include night shifts and occasional weekend work as the tide schedules demand for 30-40 hours per week. Compensation is as follows: $17.50/hour + monthly housing stipend/provided housing OR $19.50 per hour without housing benefit, plus occasional piecework. Hours spent working in the Oyster Saloon are included in the tip pool.

Benefits include health insurance (medical, vision and dental); Individual Retirement Account (IRA) with employer matching up to 3% of compensation; paid time off;  paid volunteer time; charitable donation matching; access to Employee Assistance Program; beautiful views; and discounts on great food + Hama Hama apparel.

How to Join the Hama Hama Team:  

Interested candidates who meet the criteria should submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@hamahamaoysters.com, or apply in person at:

Hama Hama Company

35846 N US Highway 101

Lilliwaup, WA 98555 

Please explicitly state in your application whether you are interested in the housing benefit. This position will close on April 27th, 2026