Also called: Clam Digger, Quahogger, Oysterman (Wild Harvest)
Harvests wild clams, oysters, and mussels from tidal flats and bays by hand or with rakes and tongs.
At low tide, a clam digger walks out onto the mudflats with a rake and basket, digging steamers or quahogs, then sells to dealers. Bay oystermen work from small boats with long tongs.
No formal education, about 0 years after high school. No degree; a state shellfish license.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Shrinking (about -2% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection band for SOC 45-3031: Decline (-1% or lower).
Low risk for 10 years. Raking and digging clams on mudflats at low tide stays hands-on work; water quality and licenses matter more.
Age 16+. One way to start: Apply for your state commercial shellfish license and town permit, then dig with an experienced harvester First: State commercial shellfish license and town permit (some towns have wait lists)
Classes: Biology, Physical education, Earth science.
Official data: O*NET occupation 45-3031.
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