ASSISTANT HATCHERY MANAGER (WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST II)
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Salary - $22.51 - $28.56 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - In-Office / On-Site
Recruiter - Karen Weir kweir@utah.gov 8015387425
Application Deadline - 6/29/2026 (at 5:00 PM)
Job Description:Lead the revolution in Utah aquaculture. Step into a leadership role at the brand-new, $56 million Loa Fish Hatchery-
the most advanced facility in the state's 30-year conservation master plan. As the Assistant Hatchery Manager, you will
oversee the health of Utah's trout populations using state-of-the-art technology and modern biosecurity protocols.
Based at the gateway to Capitol Reef National Park, you will bridge the gap between biological science and
operational leadership to ensure world-class fishing for generations to come.
Temporary Duty Station & Housing Interim Location: This position will be stationed at the Egan Hatchery until the Loa reconstruction is finished in late 2027.
Dual Focus: You will work primarily at Egan while attending Loa construction meetings and key project events.
Housing: Free temporary housing is provided at Egan, transitioning to a new state-provided residence at Loa upon facility completion.
Key Responsibilities
Key responsibilities and day to day responsibilities of this position
- As the Assistant Supervisor, you will bridge the gap between biological science and operational leadership.
- You are responsible for the health of Utah's trout populations and the development of the team that raises them.
- Primary Duties:Team Leadership: Supervise and schedule Fish Culture Bio I; lead on-site training for, egg handling, and safety protocols.
- Operational Launch: Assist in commissioning and managing new systems during the final construction and
opening phases of the modernized facility.
- Biological Oversight: Manage the full trout life cycle-from incubation to fry rearing and adult growth.
- Health & Diagnostics: Monitor fish health, perform routine necropsies, and coordinate with pathologists to prevent and treat diseases.
- Modern Systems Management: Maintain and troubleshoot state-of-the-art hatchery infrastructure.
- Biosecurity Coordination: Implement and oversee strict biosecurity protocols to ensure the success of the new facility's high-capacity production goals
Qualifications
Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:
- Education: A Bachelor's degree in Fisheries Management, Aquaculture, Biology, or a closely related natural resource
field is required. Or directly related work experience equivalent.
- Professional Experience: At least 2 years of professional experience in fish culture or hatchery
operations.
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, or supervise junior staff.
- Technical Knowledge: Proficiency in calculating feed conversions, water flow requirements, and chemical dosages for treatments such as formalin or iodine.
- Environmental Resilience: Willingness and ability to work outdoors in all of Utah's weather extremes, ranging from sub-zero temperatures to mid-summer heat.
Preferred or trainable/on-the-job qualifications:
- Modern Infrastructure Expertise: Experience working with liquid oxygen systems or advanced
water chemistry management.
- Specialized Health Science: Proficiency in performing fish necropsies and identifying parasites.
- Mechanical & Technical Aptitude: Advanced skills in plumbing (specifically PVC/HDPE), electrical troubleshooting, or small engine repair.
- Logistics & Transport: Possession of a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a Tanker Endorsement.
- Public Relations & Communication: Experience leading public tours or delivering educational
presentations to diverse groups
About the RoleLocation -
2550 S 200 W
Bicknell, Utah, 84715
United States
Background Check Required - No
Drug Test Required - No
Schedule Code - AX - Employees in supervisory positions
Work Schedule - Variable, may include weekends and holidays
Special Working Conditions or Physical Requirements - Working at the Loa hatchery is physically demanding and requires a high level of functional fitness.
Heavy Lifting: Must be able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 lbs. repeatedly for distances up to 100 yards (e.g., moving bags of fish feed, lifting nets, or hauling equipment).
Stamina & Mobility: Ability to walk and move over rough, uneven, or slippery terrain for extended periods.
Why You Should Join Our TeamIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
- Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
- Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
- Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
- Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
The AgencyBe a Trailblazer: Work at the forefront of Utah's conservation mission in a brand-new, $56 million state-of-the-art facility. Unmatched Backyard: Trade the office for a gateway to adventure near Capitol Reef National Park, Fish Lake National Forest, and Boulder Mountain. Cutting-Edge Science: Gain hands-on experience with the latest in water chemistry, biosecurity, and advanced aquaculture technology. Tangible Results: See the direct impact of your leadership in every healthy fish stocked into Utah's high-mountain lakes and local ponds.
Utah Department of Natural Resources
Division of Wildlife Resources
EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
