Hatchery Assistant information
See Michigan salary details
$11.58 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$9.50 - $11.61
18% of jobs
$11.61 - $13.72
22% of jobs
The median wage is $14.05 / hr.
$13.72 - $15.83
17% of jobs
$17.64 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$15.83 - $17.94
13% of jobs
$17.94 - $20.05
7% of jobs
$20.05 - $22.17
6% of jobs
$22.17 - $24.28
3% of jobs
$24.28 - $26.39
3% of jobs
$26.39 - $28.50
2% of jobs
$28.50 - $30.61
1% of jobs
How much do hatchery assistant jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for hatchery assistant in Michigan is $16.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.40 and $18.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Hatchery Assistants are entry-level workers who help with the daily operations of hatcheries, where fish, poultry, or other animals are bred and raised in controlled environments. Their duties often include monitoring eggs, cleaning equipment and tanks, feeding animals, recording data, and assisting with the health and welfare of the stock. They play a crucial role in ensuring young animals are properly cared for and that hatchery production runs smoothly. This job typically requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and a willingness to work in sometimes wet or noisy conditions.
To thrive as a Hatchery Assistant, you need basic knowledge of fish or poultry biology, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated feeding systems, temperature control equipment, and data recording tools is typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and good communication skills are important soft skills that help with daily operations and problem-solving. These abilities ensure efficient hatchery operations, healthy stock management, and compliance with safety and quality standards.
During spawning season, Hatchery Assistants often encounter increased workloads and tight timelines, which require strong time management and attention to detail. Managing the delicate care of eggs and fry, monitoring water quality, and quickly identifying any signs of disease or stress in the fish can be demanding. Effective communication with team members is critical to ensure smooth operations, as tasks are frequently coordinated and interdependent. Staying organized and being adaptable are key to successfully navigating these seasonal challenges.
The average hatchery assistant salary typically ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Some roles may also offer benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
Hatchery assistants typically perform tasks such as sorting eggs, maintaining incubation equipment, and monitoring hatchlings, which can be physically demanding and require attention to detail. The job often involves working in a controlled environment and following safety protocols, but the difficulty varies based on experience and specific duties.
What are the most commonly searched types of Hatchery jobs in Michigan?
The most popular types of Hatchery jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Hatchery Assistant jobs in Michigan?
For Hatchery Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hatchery Assistant jobs in Michigan look for?
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