Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training) - Vancouver Hatchery - Permanent - 2026-04913

Classification: Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training) Job Status: Full-Time/Permanent WDFW Program: Fish Program – Hatcheries Division Duty Station: Vancouver Hatchery – Vancouver, Washington – Clark County Housing: Housing is not provided Standby: Standby is currently assigned In-Training We are recruiting to fill this position at the Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 or 2 classification. Candidates hired as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 will be required to complete an in‑training plan in order to advance to the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 classification. Salary Fish Hatchery Specialist 1: $3,581.00 – $4,771.00 Fish Hatchery Specialist 2: $3,925.00 – $5,271.00 Note: The salaries listed above do not include the 2% pay increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026. Job Overview Support salmon, steelhead, and trout conservation efforts while providing sustainable recreational, tribal, and commercial opportunities in the state of Washington. Join the team and perform scientific, technical, and related maintenance duties at the Vancouver Hatchery. This is a unique opportunity to partner with a non‑profit organization, Columbia Springs. This position will interact with Columbia Springs staff, other non‑profit organizations, and large volumes of people to educate and inspire stewardship regarding Washington’s natural resources. Responsibilities Perform Fish Culture Calculate and feed fish according to pond populations and weight samples, adjusting feed size and amount fed as needed. Monitor fish behavior, health, and production. Administer therapeutics and calculate/administer drugs as prescribed. Clean ponds, raceways, troughs, and incubator systems to maintain fish health. Pick egg loss by hand or using equipment, fertilize eggs according to pre‑determined ratios and Hatchery Genetic Management Plan (HGMP) requirements, and incubate eggs using a variety of vessels. Load fish into trucks for transport according to safe hauling densities, utilizing proper oxygen levels and monitoring fish during transport. Monitor water quality parameters using dissolved oxygen meters, calibrating when needed, and chemicals to ensure a safe rearing environment. Record Keeping and Reporting Use computers and software to perform various aspects of hatchery work including data entry, record keeping, and reporting within and outside the agency. Accurately fill out and submit agency forms such as fish transfer tickets and hatchery invoice forms. Perform water quality analysis and discharge monitoring reports (DMR) as required by the Department of Ecology to maintain hatchery discharge permits (NPDES). Create programs to calculate desired growth rates through yearly rearing cycle (Projection sheets) that monitor fish sizes using samples and feed conversions. Maintain purchasing card account, ledger of hatchery expenses, and complete order payment forms for vendor payments. Operation and Maintenance of Facility and Equipment Maintain proper water flow and rearing environments. Actively identify safety hazards and take action or recommend remedies. Perform maintenance duties in and around the hatchery to preserve a clean and safe working environment. Operate forklifts, tractors, yard maintenance equipment, fish pumps, and common power tools. Design/fabricate needed hatchery equipment (such as fish racks, weirs, intake screens, fish transfer equipment, and adult fish gates) using metal, aluminum, plastic, and wood. Working Conditions Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions for approximately 250 days per year. Perform strenuous physical activities such as repetitively lifting fish feed bags, salt blocks, and hatchery equipment weighing at least 50 pounds. Use a respirator and other personal protective equipment (PPE) while working with various chemicals used at the facility. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Schedule Typically, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., following a 10 days on and 4 days off schedule. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions. Standby Requirements Standby duties are currently assigned. Standby involves overseeing the facility for the remaining 16 hours of the day when on duty. The standby schedule consists of working 10 consecutive days, including 7 days of standby duty, followed by 4 days off. While on standby the incumbent must have a response time of 15–30 minutes, dependent on time of year. Housing Housing is not provided for this position. Travel Travel may be required to accomplish agency goals. Tools and Equipment Hand and power tools, lawn care equipment, tractors, forklifts, welding equipment, egg picking machines, water sampling instruments, small and large fish transport trucks, passenger vehicles, adult fish pumps, trash pumps, pressure washers, diesel generators, small gas engines, and computers. Customer Interactions This position is located at a facility with a partner organization, Columbia Springs, and will regularly interact with community groups, individual members of the public, and volunteers. The Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 is required to engage and communicate with Columbia Springs staff along with other non‑profit organizations, school‑age tour groups, and a high number of public and visitors. This position will talk to groups, ranging in size from a few to large numbers of people, during tours of the facility and assist in facilitating an annual kids fishing event. Qualifications Required Qualifications for Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 Option 1: Three (3) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery. Option 2: An Associate’s degree in fisheries technology, biology, or a closely allied field. Option 3: Three (3) years of education toward a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or a closely allied field. Option 4: Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school. Required Qualifications for Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (Goal Class) Option 1: Four (4) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery. Option 2: One (1) year of experience as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1. Option 3: An Associate’s degree in fisheries technology, biology, or closely allied field; plus one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery. Option 4: Two (2) years of education toward a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or closely allied field; plus one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery. Option 5: Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school; plus one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery. Certifications / Licenses Valid driver’s license. Special Requirements / Conditions of Employment Standby duties require a 15–30‑minute response time to the facility. Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must be obtained within 6 months of hire. Preferred Qualifications Two (2) or four (4) year degree in fisheries or closely associated field. Salmonid fish culture experience. Class A or Class B CDL with tanker endorsement. Washington State Pesticide Applicator’s License. Application Requirements A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements. An up-to-date resume. A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate. At least three professional references with current contact information. Benefits Other benefits may be available to WDFW employees. Employees may be eligible for special employee programs and additional benefits. For more information, see the benefits section on the agency’s website. Union Information This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Hatchery Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish Hatchery Professionals (WAFHP). Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer Statement As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. We want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington. Request an Accommodation Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at View phone number on click.appcast.io. Technical Difficulties If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll‑free at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. Other Questions If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io and reference job #2026-04913. Volunteer Opportunities Know someone who would like to volunteer? WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer! Follow Us on Social Media LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Washington