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Fish Hatchery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fisheries Hatchery Technician II

Tacoma, WA

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Assists Hatchery Manager in all aspects of fish culture. * Participates in stream surveys counting type of fish and quantity; traps spawning fish and recovers tags; participates in sample fishing.

Fisheries Hatchery Technician II

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Assists Hatchery Manager in all aspects of fish culture. * Participates in stream surveys counting type of fish and quantity; traps spawning fish and recovers tags; participates in sample fishing.

Fish Culturist (DGF#10114131)

Questa, NM · On-site

$18.69 - $28.04/hr

Daily visual evaluation of production inventories, hatchery rearing units, and facility to assess conditions, cleanliness, and overall fish health to determine a best practice approach to the daily ...

$55K - $67K/yr

The Assistant Hatchery Manager position is available at the Armin F Koernig Hatchery (AFK) in the ... Fish Propagation: Enumerating, caring, killing, spawning, and disposing of carcasses; preparing ...

Fish Biologist

Suches, GA · On-site

$50K/yr

The National Fish Hatchery System (NFHS) is comprised of a network of field stations located throughout the nation that work with tribal, local, and state governments, other federal agencies, and ...

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Fish Hatchery information

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How much do fish hatchery jobs pay per month?

As of Jul 12, 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 qualifications do you need to work at a fish hatchery?

To work at a fish hatchery, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include knowledge of aquatic biology, experience with hatchery equipment, and the ability to perform physical tasks in a laboratory or outdoor environment. Some positions may require certifications in water safety or handling hazardous materials.

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.

How much do fish hatcheries make?

Fish hatchery workers' salaries vary depending on location, experience, and job responsibilities, but typically range from $25,000 to $50,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced hatchery managers can earn over $60,000. Certifications in fish biology or aquaculture can enhance earning potential.

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.

How to get into fish hatchery work?

To work at a fish hatchery, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may benefit from experience in biology, aquaculture, or related fields. Entry-level positions often require physical stamina, knowledge of water quality management, and sometimes certifications in first aid or safety procedures. Gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteering can improve job prospects in this field.

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.

Is working at a hatchery hard?

Working at a fish hatchery can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, as employees often handle fish, maintain equipment, and monitor water quality. The job may involve early mornings, outdoor work, and adherence to safety protocols, but it generally depends on the specific role and environment. Skills in biology, patience, and teamwork are beneficial for success in this field.
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:
Infographic showing various Fish Hatchery job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,395 per year, or $30 per hour.

Biological Science Technician (Fish)

Internships | Texas A&M University Kingsville

Iron River, WI • On-site

$50K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

This position is located within the Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fish & Wildlife Service Region 3, at the Iron River National Fish Hatchery located in Iron River Wisconsin.Qualifications:Only experience and education obtained by 07/08/2026 will be considered.
In order to qualify for this position you must possess both the Basic Requirement and Minimum Qualification.
Minimum Qualification [GS-07]:
A. Possess one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-6 grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the public or private sectors performing work in the field of or directly related to biological science. Qualifying experience includes (1) planning the logistics of (e.g., establishing schedules and following procedures to accomplish fish rearing) feeding and caring for fish, and carrying out multi-faceted fish propagation activities (spawning, egg care, sorting, sampling, stocking) at a fish hatchery; (2) use established procedures to collect data daily, weekly, and monthly and organize data and train others in data entry; (3) maintaining and using complex fish culture equipment; and (4) using specialized techniques and methods to culture fish. OR
B. Possess one full year of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree, if directly related to the position. OR
C. Possess a combination of graduate level education and specialized experience directly related to the position as described above.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Minimum Qualification [GS-08]:
A. Possess one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-7 grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the public or private sectors performing work in the field of or directly related to biological science. Qualifying experience includes (1) planning the logistics of (e.g., established schedule?s, and following procedures to accomplish fish rearing) feeding and caring for fish, and leading crews in carrying out multi-faceted fish propagation activities (spawning, egg care, sorting, sampling, stocking) at a fish hatchery; (2) developing and collecting daily, weekly, and monthly data, and training others in data entry and collection; (3) providing guidance and oversight to others on the use and maintenance of fish culture equipment; and (4) using specialized techniques and methods to culture fish. OR
B. Possess one full year of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree, if directly related to the position. OR
C. Possess a combination of graduate level education and specialized experience directly related to the position as described above.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Time In Grade Requirement: Applicants must meet both eligibility and qualification requirements for the position of interest by the closing date of the JOA. Specifically,
i. Area of Consideration.
ii. Time-in-grade (TIG) requirements as specified in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F.
iii. Time after competitive appointment as specified in 5 CFR 330.502.
iv. Qualification requirements outlined in OPM's Qualifications Standards for General Schedule PositionsEducation:PROOF OF EDUCATION: All applicants who are using education or a combination of education and experience to qualify must submit copies of official or unofficial transcripts which include grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, institution name, and student name. If any required coursework is not easily recognizable on transcripts, or if you believe a portion of a particular course can be credited toward meeting an educational requirement, you must also provide a memorandum on letterhead from the institution's registrar, dean, or other appropriate official stating the percentage of the course that should be considered to meet the requirement and the equivalent number of units. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable; however, if you are selected for the position, you will be required to produce the original official transcripts.
PASS/FAIL COURSES: If more than 10 percent of your undergraduate course work (credit hours) were taken on a pass/fail basis, your claim of superior academic achievement must be based upon class standing or membership in an honor society.
GRADUATE EDUCATION: One academic year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credits hours your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. Such study may have been performed on a full-time or part-time basis. If you cannot obtain your graduate school's definition of one year of graduate study, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) should be considered as satisfying the requirement for one year of full-time graduate study.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications | International Affairs Office (ed.gov).Employment Type: OTHER