AGFC Biological Technician I / Fisheries Division

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission; Mammoth Spring (AR); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission seeks a Biological Technician I (FISHERIES DIVISION) to support daily fish care, propagation, and hatchery maintenance. Responsibilities include feeding, growth monitoring, spawning assistance, and equipment upkeep.

Position requires a valid driver's license and the ability to obtain a Class B CDL with Airbrake and Tank endorsement within 12 months. Safe operation of tractors, pumps, and vehicles is essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent plus two years field experience in wildlife or fisheries management.
• Experience may be substituted for all or part of these requirements with HR Chief approval.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Must possess or be able to obtain Class B CDL with Airbrake and Tank endorsement within 12 months of start date.

Responsibilities

• Performs daily fish culture tasks including feeding, monitoring growth, spawning, incubation, and grading of fish.
• Maintains hatchery grounds, facilities, and equipment with routine maintenance.
• Operates tractors, mowers, ATVs, and fish hauling trucks; performs related vehicle tasks.
• Maintains water systems: pumps, aerators, filtration, and water parameters.
• Keeps accurate logs for mortality, feed usage, and maintenance schedules.
• Follows safety protocols and biosecurity measures to prevent aquatic nuisance species.
• Assists in propagation and maintenance activities including spawning, incubation, sexing, and feeding.

Skills

Equipment maintenance knowledge

Fish propagation knowledge

Engine and pump operation

Aquaculture techniques

Heavy equipment operation

Tools handling (hand & power)

Physical stamina

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma + 2 years field experience in wildlife or fisheries management

Job description

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma, plus two years of field experience in wildlife or fisheries management, or a related area.

OTHER JOB-RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE HUMAN RESOURCES CHIEF.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:

• Knowledge of the equipment and techniques used to maintain buildings, grounds, and equipment
• Knowledge of fish propagation, harvesting, cultivation, and maintenance activities
• Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of gasoline and diesel engines, pumps, and hydraulic systems.
• Knowledge of basic aquaculture techniques and fish biology.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment (tractors, bush hogs, etc.) safely in various terrain conditions.
• Ability to use a variety of hand and power tools for facility repairs and plumbing tasks.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical labor in all weather conditions, including lifting up to 50 lbs. and working in/around water.
• Skill in basic computer use for data entry and maintenance record-keeping.

Job Summary:

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) Biological Technician I (FISHERIES DIVISION) is responsible for the daily care and propagation of fish, as well as the comprehensive maintenance of hatchery grounds, facilities, and specialized equipment. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.

Typical Functions:

Performs daily fish culture tasks, including feeding, monitoring growth, and assisting in spawning, egg incubation, and the grading/sorting of fish.

Maintains hatchery aesthetics and safety by performing large-scale mowing, tractor operation, and vegetation control on pond levees and facility perimeters.

Operates and performs routine maintenance on tractors, mowers, ATVs, and fish hauling trucks.

Maintains and repairs essential hardware such as water pumps, aerators, and filtration systems.

Assists in the repair and upkeep of hatchery structures

Monitors water parameters and physically adjusts water flow and aeration to maintain life-support systems.

Assists in the loading and transport of fish, including the operation of specialized hauling tanks and oxygen delivery systems during transit to public waters.

Maintains accurate logs regarding fish mortality, feed usage, and equipment maintenance schedules.

Ensures all activities follow agency safety protocols and biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species.

Assists in conducting fish and game propagation and maintenance activities, including monitoring of spawning, hatching, incubation, sexing, and feeding.

Prepares reports on wildlife findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

Cleans, maintains, prepares, and supplies work areas.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Certificates, Licenses, or Registrations:

Must have a valid driver's license

Other Specific Information:

Must possess or be able to obtain a Class B CDL with Airbrake and Tank endorsement within 12 months of the employment start date.

As an equal opportunity employer, the Commission will make any reasonable accommodationsnecessaryto ensure equal employment opportunities.