Lead Hatchery Specialist – Chinook & Coho

State of Washington; Orting (WA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing provided

Job summary

State of Washington’s Fish Program – Hatcheries Division seeks a Fish Hatchery Specialist 3 at Voights Creek Hatchery in Orting, WA. This full-time role leads a crew producing Chinook and Coho salmon to support regional fisheries, ensuring safe, efficient operations and adherence to program objectives.

Expect outdoor work in all weather, with long hours during peak periods. The position includes stand-by duties, housing provided, and travel as needed to meet training and program goals.

Qualifications

• Six (6) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery.
• One (1) year of experience as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 2.
• Two (2) years of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
• Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification within one (1) year.

Responsibilities

• Perform Fish Culture: apply sound fish culture practices to meet program goals; monitor growth and feed requirements; coordinate transfers and releases; evaluate size, growth, and health.
• Act as Crew Leader: carry out assignments as a working leader; ensure safety compliance; train others in methods and procedures.
• Physical Operation and Maintenance: maintain hatchery components, pumps, motors, vehicles, alarms, generators, and equipment.
• Communications: keep supervisors informed of issues; represent the agency professionally.

Education

Associate’s degree or higher in fisheries technology, biology, or a closely allied field

Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school

Job description

State of Washington’s Fish Program – Hatcheries Division seeks a Fish Hatchery Specialist 3 at Voights Creek Hatchery in Orting, WA. This full-time role leads a crew producing Chinook and Coho salmon to support regional fisheries, ensuring safe, efficient operations and adherence to program objectives.

Expect outdoor work in all weather, with long hours during peak periods. The position includes stand-by duties, housing provided, and travel as needed to meet training and program goals.