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Fish Hatcheries Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Project Civil/Aquaculture Engineer

Boise, ID ยท On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Example projects include the design of fish hatcheries, fish passage facilities, surface water intakes, pump stations, dams, pipelines and fabricated gates and valves. Our clients include utilities ...

Projects include the design of dams, spillways, outlet works, surface water intakes, pump stations, fish hatcheries and passage, pipelines, and fabricated gates and valves for projects located across ...

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Fish Hatcheries information

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How much do fish hatcheries jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for fish hatcheries in the United States is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fish hatchery?

Fish hatcheries are specialized facilities where fish are bred, hatched, and raised, typically for release into the wild or for commercial purposes. These hatcheries play an important role in supporting fish populations, especially for conservation, restocking, and aquaculture industries. They help replenish depleted fish stocks, introduce species to new habitats, and support recreational fishing activities. Hatchery staff manage breeding, caring for eggs and larvae, and rearing young fish until they are ready for release or sale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fish hatchery technician?

To thrive as a Fish Hatchery Technician, you need knowledge of aquaculture practices, fish biology, and often a degree or coursework in fisheries science or a related field. Familiarity with water quality monitoring equipment, feeding systems, and record-keeping software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure healthy fish populations, efficient hatchery operations, and compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by fish hatchery technicians, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Fish hatchery technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal water quality, preventing disease outbreaks, and managing fluctuating environmental conditions. These issues are typically addressed through careful monitoring of water parameters, regular cleaning and maintenance of tanks and equipment, and adherence to biosecurity protocols. Technicians also collaborate closely with biologists and other team members to troubleshoot problems and implement best practices, ensuring healthy fish populations and successful hatchery operations.

What is the difference between Fish Hatcheries vs Fish Biologists?

AspectFish HatcheriesFish Biologists
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require technical certificationsBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field; advanced roles may require master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentFish hatcheries, outdoor and indoor facilities, hands-on animal careResearch labs, field sites, offices, outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, aquaculture companies, conservation programsResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental organizations

Fish hatcheries focus on breeding, raising, and releasing fish populations, often working directly with fish in controlled environments. Fish biologists conduct research, study fish populations, and develop conservation strategies. While both roles involve aquatic environments and fish management, hatcheries are more hands-on and operational, whereas biologists are research-oriented and analytical.

More about Fish Hatcheries jobs

What states have the most Fish Hatcheries jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fish Hatcheries jobs include:

Infographic showing various Fish Hatcheries job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,881 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Fish Culturist III-YKFP Glenwood

Yakama Nation

Glenwood, WA โ€ข On-site

$18.23/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

ยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญยญAnnouncement #

2026-175

Issue Date:

08-19-26

Closing Date:

08-25-26

Fish Culturist III

Yakima Klickitat Fisheries Project (YKFP)

Department of Natural Resources

Hourly Wage: $18.23/Regular/Full-Time

Location: Glenwood

Provides support to the Hatchery Manager in the operation and maintenance of Fish Hatcheries, direct and monitor the work of subordinates and staff involved in all phases of the Hatchery operation in order to achieve management goals.

Examples of Work Performed:

Provide support to management by scheduling the work of subordinates and assisting in trapping and selecting adult salmon for artificial spawning, egg collection, traying, shocking, counting, setting proper water flow, monitoring eggs development and fish to proper sites. Monitor water levels, determine feeding schedules and observe fish for presence of disease or parasites. Determine treatment to alleviate disease or parasite.

Dissect dead or spawned out salmon to check for egg retention and take viral samples for disease analysis.

Consult with immediate supervisor or Hatchery Manager to determine liberation schedules and may drive liberation tack truck to scheduled site.

Establish proper feeding schedule to coordinate fish growth with pond availability and release dates.

Assist management in planning for production schedule.

Collect, record and report observation data; maintain activity logs, prepared periodic reports of activities and accomplishments.

Determine proper levels of water quality such as dissolved gases, suspended dissolved solids, temperature and PH levels. Treat hatchery water as needed.

Maintain genetic diversity through proper broodstock selection of the wild stock population.

Coordinate with and assist management in project planning, setting goals and adjusting priorities as conditions require. May be in charge of facility in absence of Hatchery Manager or Assistant Manager.

Abide by Yakama Nation Rules and Regulations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of various types of salmonids and life history; common fish disease and usual treatments; habits of fish; care and propagation of fish eggs; equipment and supplies needed in maintenance of buildings and ground.

Ability to operate and maintain machinery and equipment used in hatchery operation; direct and work with other employees.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to develop and maintain hatchery records.

Minimum Requirements:

Minimum of a two year Fishery Technology degree and two years of Hatchery Experience. A minimum of one year of supervisory experience.

Required to pass pre-employment drug test.

Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving Permit.

Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.