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Electrofishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At times, this is a physically demanding job involving backpack and drift boat electrofishing in small streams to large rivers, hiking into and sampling remote lakes or streams, and operating and ...

Environmental Scientist I

Arlington, TX · On-site

$66K - $87K/yr

This may require significant effort regarding logistics and other preparations. 2. Maintain, calibrate, and oversee field equipment including boats, acoustic Doppler profilers, electrofishing gear ...

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Electrofishing information

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$8

$26

$61

How much do electrofishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrofishing in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is electrofishing?

An electrofishing job involves using specialized equipment to apply electrical currents to water, temporarily stunning fish for research, population surveys, or conservation efforts. This method allows biologists to safely capture, study, and release fish without causing long-term harm. Electrofishing is commonly used by environmental agencies, fisheries, and research institutions to gather data on fish populations, habitat health, and biodiversity. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential to ensure ethical and effective use of this technique.

What does an electrofishing worker do?

A typical workday in electrofishing often involves preparing and calibrating field equipment, traveling to various water bodies, conducting fish sampling using electrofishing techniques, and meticulously recording biological data. You’ll usually work as part of a small team, often under varying weather conditions and sometimes in remote locations. After fieldwork, you'll help process samples, maintain equipment, and compile reports on your findings. Collaboration with biologists, technicians, and sometimes governmental agencies is common, making teamwork and clear communication essential. The role offers exciting variety and provides valuable contributions to fish population assessments and habitat management efforts.

What skills and qualifications are needed for electrofishing?

To thrive in an electrofishing role, you need a solid understanding of aquatic biology, field sampling techniques, and strict adherence to safety protocols, typically supported by relevant coursework or degrees in fisheries science, biology, or environmental science. Hands-on experience with electrofishing equipment, familiarity with GPS devices, and certifications such as First Aid/CPR or state-specific electrofishing safety training are highly valued. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help candidates excel, especially when collaborating in the field. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate data collection, maintain personal and team safety, and support informed resource management decisions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrofishing jobs?

The most popular types of Electrofishing jobs are:

What states have the most Electrofishing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Electrofishing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Electrofishing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Fish Technician II (2) Positions FRM

Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation

Peshastin, WA • On-site

$15.74 - $17.72/hr

Temporary

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Announcement #
2026-156
Issue Date:
08-07-26
Closing Date:
08-21-26
Fish Technician II (2) Two Positions
Fisheries Resource Management (FRM)
Department of Natural Resources
Hourly Wage: $15.74-$17.72/Temporary/Full-Time
Location: Peshastin
The incumbent is responsible for technical fisheries work involved with hatchery coho monitoring and evaluation as part of Yakama Nation's Mid-Columbia Coho Reintroduction Program in the Wenatchee River Basin. The incumbent will also participate in research and sampling of ESA-listed spring Chinook and steelhead in tributaries of the Wenatchee River. This position participates in field operations, which include the operation of three rotary screw traps, spawning ground surveys, zooplankton sampling, and electrofishing. The incumbent will also assist with hatchery-related tasks. Additional duties will include data entry and summarization.
Examples of Work Performed:
Conducts sampling of juvenile and adult salmonids.
Operates and maintains field equipment.
Assists with operation and maintenance of PIT antennas for acclimation ponds.
Participates in daily operation and maintenance of smolt traps.
Participates in field work that may include, but is not limited to, spawning ground surveys, snorkel surveys, electrofishing, sampling and tagging of juvenile salmonids, and assisting with coho broodstock trapping and spawning.
Assists with tasks related to hatchery production.
Performs other related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Juvenile and adult salmonid identification.
Experience with data entry and summarization.
Experience with PIT tagging juvenile salmonids.
Experience operating and maintaining smolt traps.
Experience conducting spawning ground surveys.
Experience with swift water rafting and safety procedures.
Knowledge of standard fisheries principles and procedures.
Knowledge of fish species and identification characteristics.
Ability to work outside under all types of weather conditions.
Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. on a daily basis.
Ability to work assigned schedule that may include weekends, nights, and holidays.
Minimum Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum of one year of experience as a Fish Tech I and the demonstrated ability to do the work listed.
Required to pass a pre-employment background check.
Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.
Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving permit.
Preferred Requirements:
Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.