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Fish Hatchery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$21.26/hr

Fish Culturist II functions as part of the hatchery operations team in the cultivating and rearing of fish. Under supervision, initiates, supervises and performs complex professional or technical ...

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Fish Hatchery information

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$2.8K

$5.2K

$9K

How much do fish hatchery jobs pay per month?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average monthly pay for fish hatchery in the United States is $5,199.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $3,333.33 and $6,208.33 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fish Hatchery Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fish Hatchery Technician, you need knowledge of aquatic biology, fish husbandry, and environmental science, often supported by a degree or relevant work experience. Familiarity with water quality testing equipment, feeding systems, and hatchery management software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure the health of fish populations, efficient hatchery operations, and compliance with environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Fish Hatchery vs Fish Biologist?

AspectFish HatcheryFish Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field; advanced roles may require a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentFish farms, hatchery facilities, outdoor settingsResearch labs, field sites, aquatic environments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, aquaculture companies, conservation programsResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental organizations

While both roles involve working with fish, a Fish Hatchery focuses on breeding, raising, and releasing fish in controlled environments, often for conservation or commercial purposes. A Fish Biologist conducts research, studies fish populations, and develops conservation strategies. The two roles share some credentials and work environments but differ in their primary focus and responsibilities.

What are fish hatcheries?

Fish hatcheries are specialized facilities where fish are bred, hatched, and raised during their early life stages before being released into natural bodies of water or stocked for aquaculture. Their main goal is to support the conservation of fish populations, enhance recreational fishing opportunities, or provide fish for commercial purposes. Hatcheries play a crucial role in maintaining sustainable fish populations and helping to restore endangered or depleted species.

What Are the Qualifications to Work in a Fish Hatchery?

The primary qualifications for fish hatchery jobs depend on the position. For example, if you want to manage a hatchery, expect employers to ask for a bachelor's degree in a relevant aquatic field and several years of experience with fish culture, including knowledge of sampling techniques and data collection. If you want to operate and maintain equipment, companies usually look for an associate degree from a technical college, one to two years of experience, and the ability to determine facility needs to meet production goals. Some companies are willing to accept additional experience in lieu of a college degree. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a fish hatchery job requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills as well as the ability to work in a variety of weather conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by fish hatchery technicians, and how can they be managed on the job?

Fish hatchery technicians often contend with challenges such as maintaining optimal water quality, preventing disease outbreaks among fish populations, and managing seasonal fluctuations in workload. Addressing these issues typically involves closely monitoring environmental parameters, following strict biosecurity protocols, and working collaboratively with other team members to ensure the health and productivity of the hatchery. Strong organizational skills and adaptability are essential, as daily tasks may change based on the needs of the fish stock and hatchery operations.
What cities are hiring for Fish Hatchery jobs? Cities with the most Fish Hatchery job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fish Hatchery jobs? The most popular types of Fish Hatchery jobs are:
What states have the most Fish Hatchery jobs? States with the most job openings for Fish Hatchery jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fish Hatchery jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fish Hatchery jobs are:
Infographic showing various Fish Hatchery job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Locum Tenens, and 91% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,395 per year, or $30 per hour.
Fish Hatchery Manager

$45K - $77K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities This employee will assist with managing all aspects of the Spring Stevens Fish Hatchery including fish culture, administration, maintenance and outreach. Job duties Include: Regulating and supervising all activities which pertain to the culture and harvest of fish at the Spring Stevens Fish Hatchery. Implementing and carrying out all duties necessary to ensure that fish production meets the annual production goals assigned by the Hatchery Coordinator.

Coordinating manpower and equipment needs to ensure successful pond stocking, management, harvest, transportation, and stocking of hatchery products to the state's public waters. Conducting and/or supervising maintenance of the Spring Stevens Fish Hatchery. Performing duties necessary to maintain hatchery grounds, ponds, office, work buildings, and personal residence.

Being on-call 24 hours/day. Providing assistance with maintenance and construction activities on State Lakes Maintenance projects, other State hatcheries and regional and research projects. Coordinating outreach activities including organizing fisheries related events.

Responding to public requests for information pertaining to hatchery operations and/or related Department activities. Minimum and Additional Requirements An associate degree in the technical sciences and five (5) years of experience in wildlife/fisheries technical management. SC Pesticide Applicators License (Aquatics Category) or ability to acquire within six (6) months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications An associate degree in the technical sciences and one (5) years direct fish hatchery experience. Technical expertise in all aspects of warmwater fish culture, including spawning, grow-out, feed schedules, water quality management, harvest, holding, and transport. Ability to work effectively without direct supervision and independently oversee and manage hatchery operations.

Ability to operate and maintain heavy equipment, such as tractors and excavators; ability to maintain buildings, aquaculture systems, and grounds. Knowledge of construction or proficiency in plumbing, carpentry, and electrical trades. Ability to collect, enter, and manage data reliably; work in the field in adverse weather; swim and work comfortably in and around water; safely operate small boats; operate aquaculture equipment; work with and communicate with the public, co-workers, and supervisors and consistently lift heavy objects.

Hatchery Manager is expected to live on-site in a SCDNR-provided residence.


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About State of South Carolina

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State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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