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Steelhead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Fisheries Biologist

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$100K - $125K/yr

This role supports ESA and NEPA evaluations of hatchery programs affecting ESA-listed salmon and steelhead. * This position is advertised through our joint venture, FISH and Lynker Ocean Alliance ...

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Steelhead information

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$56

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How much do steelhead jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for steelhead in the United States is $56.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.87 and $75.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Steelhead angler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a steelhead angler, you need in-depth knowledge of fish behavior, angling techniques, and local waterways, often gained through experience and specialized fishing courses. Familiarity with fishing gear such as rods, reels, lures, and fish finders is essential. Patience, adaptability, and strong observational skills help anglers adjust strategies and respond to changing river conditions. These skills are important to consistently locate, catch, and conserve steelhead in diverse and sometimes challenging environments.

What are the common challenges faced by steelhead fishing guides during peak season?

Steelhead fishing guides often face challenges such as unpredictable river conditions, fluctuating fish runs, and managing client expectations during peak season. They must adapt quickly to weather changes and ensure safety while providing a successful fishing experience. Additionally, guides work long hours and need strong communication skills to coordinate logistics and educate clients about local regulations and conservation practices.

What are steelhead?

Steelhead are a type of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) that are anadromous, meaning they migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers to spawn. Unlike typical rainbow trout, which spend their entire lives in freshwater, steelhead are born in rivers, migrate to the ocean to grow and mature, and then return to their natal rivers to reproduce. This unique life cycle makes steelhead highly prized among anglers and ecologists. They are native to the Pacific Ocean and river systems in North America and are known for their strength and agility.

What job pays $400,000 a year without a degree?

A Steelhead, which is a type of fish, does not have a salary. If referring to a job, high-paying roles without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial pilot, real estate developer, or certain sales positions, but these typically require experience, skills, or certifications rather than formal degrees. Most jobs paying $400,000 annually usually demand advanced skills, extensive experience, or professional licensing.

What is the difference between Steelhead vs Fish Biologist?

AspectSteelheadFish Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require biology or environmental science backgroundBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field; advanced roles may need a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in rivers, streams, and hatcheries; some lab workResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, or environmental organizations
Employer & Industry UsageFisheries management, hatcheries, conservation programsResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consulting firms

While Steelhead refers to a specific fish species often involved in conservation and hatchery work, a Fish Biologist is a professional who studies fish species, including Steelhead, to understand their biology, ecology, and conservation needs. The roles overlap in fieldwork and environmental settings, but Fish Biologists typically have higher education credentials and broader research responsibilities.

More about Steelhead jobs
What cities are hiring for Steelhead jobs? Cities with the most Steelhead job openings:
What states have the most Steelhead jobs? States with the most job openings for Steelhead jobs include:
Infographic showing various Steelhead job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,135 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Lynker Corporation is a leading provider of innovative solutions in weather and climate science. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Lynker leverages cutting-edge technologies and scientific expertise to support the creation and delivery of improved operational weather forecasts.
As part of our ongoing growth and expansion, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Fisheries Biologist to to support NMFS West Coast Region in evaluating Hatchery and Genetic Management Plans (HGMPs).


These positions are anticipated to begin in September–October 2026, pending/contingent on contract award. Employment in this role is contingent upon FLOAT* being awarded the contract by NOAA.


This role supports ESA and NEPA evaluations of hatchery programs affecting ESA-listed salmon and steelhead.


* This position is advertised through our joint venture, FISH and Lynker Ocean Alliance Team (FLOAT), a partnership between Lynker and Fisheries Immersed Sciences Hawaii (FISH) serving the NOAA ProTech Fisheries 2.0 IDIQ contracting vehicle.


Duties of the Senior Fisheries Biologist will include the following:

  • Conduct ESA effects analyses for harvest and hatchery management frameworks
    Perform trend analysis, risk assessment, and population evaluations
  • Prepare NEPA documents (EAs/EISs)
  • Evaluate alternative fishery management strategies
  • Coordinate with NMFS staff, general counsel, and co-managers
  • Support implementation of regional and international fisheries agreements, including the 2018-2027 US v Oregon Agreement and the 2019-2028 Pacific Salmon Treaty Agreement and successor agreements

Place of Performance
Work will be performed primarily offsite with access to NOAA systems as required.

Travel
Twelve (12) single day trips, (one day per month) to Seattle or Lacey, WA NMFS office for technical collaboration and check-ins.


The Senior Fisheries Biologist selected should have the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience
  • Knowledge of the various laws pertaining to management of the fishing industry, including the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act.
  • Knowledge of the Endangered Species Act regarding activities affecting Pacific salmon and steelhead, and their habitat.
  • Knowledge of the National Environmental Policy Act and experience in preparing NEPA analytical documents such as Categorical Exclusions (CEs)/Findings of No Significant Impact (FONSI’s), Environmental Assessments (EAs), Environmental Impact Statements (EISs)
  • Experience in preparing hatchery and fishery management analytical documents that articulate policy considerations and alternative approaches to addressing issues, supported by the best available science.
  • Experience conducting technical analyses and assessments for anadromous salmonids, particularly related to assessment of hatchery and harvest management actions on Pacific salmon and steelhead.
  • Technical writing experience completing analyses and concise reports addressing Pacific Northwest anadromous salmon and their habitat.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of individuals.
  • Ability to articulate biological and policy information on technical findings to both technical and nontechnical audiences in both oral and written word formats.
  • Ability to work independently and be solution oriented.
  • Experience performing ESA Section 7,10, or 4(d) consultations.
  • Knowledge of the fisheries management frameworks in the Pacific Northwest Region, preferred

* This position is advertised through our joint venture, FISH and Lynker Ocean Alliance Team (FLOAT), a partnership between Lynker and Fisheries Immersed Sciences Hawaii (FISH) serving the NOAA ProTech Fisheries 2.0 IDIQ contracting vehicle.

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee owned business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.

We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities – creatively and effectively.

Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:

  • Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
  • Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
  • Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
  • Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – we're all company owners!
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Life and accident insurance
  • Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
  • Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
  • Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.

 Fraud Alert: Recruitment Scam Warning: Lynker has been made aware of fraudulent individuals posing as Lynker recruiters and offering fake job opportunities. All legitimate Lynker job postings are listed on our official careers page. Communication from Lynker recruiters will come from an official @lynker.com email address.

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