Hatchery Specialist in Training: Fish Culture

State of Washington; Puyallup (WA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) seeks a Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training) at the Puyallup Hatchery to support Rainbow Trout and salmon rearing, perform routine maintenance, and assist with culture activities.

This role offers mentoring with a 12‑month training plan; qualification steps include a mix of education and hatchery experience, with advancement to Specialist 2 upon completion.

Qualifications

• In-training path from Specialist 1 to 2 with a 12-month plan.
• Hires may start at Specialist 1 or 2 depending on experience.
• Completion leads to promotion to Specialist 2.
• Valid Driver’s License required.

Responsibilities

• Manage fish culture tasks including feeding, egg handling, and sampling.
• Maintain records with hatchery forms and logs.
• Operate hatchery equipment and vehicles.
• Repair and maintain facilities and tools.
• Support transport and tagging of adult fish.
• Monitor temperatures and water quality.

Skills

Fish culture experience

Experience as Specialist 1

CDL Class B

Education

Associate degree in fisheries technology or biology

Coursework toward Bachelor's degree in fisheries or biology

Fish culture program from vocational school

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Job description

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) seeks a Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training) at the Puyallup Hatchery to support Rainbow Trout and salmon rearing, perform routine maintenance, and assist with culture activities.

This role offers mentoring with a 12‑month training plan; qualification steps include a mix of education and hatchery experience, with advancement to Specialist 2 upon completion.