Fish Culturist 1 (Seasonal) - Pleasant Gap

The seasonal Fish Culturist 1 role with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission offers a chance to support healthy fish populations and strengthen outdoor recreation across the state. This position allows you to develop hands-on skills in fish care and hatchery operations while working outdoors. After a successful training period—which includes obtaining a Commercial Driver's License—this role may turn into permanent employment.

About the role

This position supports the daily operation of a fish culture station by assisting in fish propagation, care, stocking, and facility upkeep. The role focuses on learning and performing practical tasks that promote healthy fish populations and efficient hatchery functions.

Responsibilities

• Fish Care: Learn and perform tasks that support fish growth, health, and well-being across all life stages
• Egg Management: Prepare, monitor, and maintain egg incubation systems while tracking development and hatch outcomes
• Facility Upkeep: Maintain buildings, equipment, grounds, and treatment systems to support efficient hatchery operations
• Fish Transport: Assist with preparing, loading, and delivering fish safely and efficiently to stocking locations
• Record Keeping: Document fish inventory, feeding, growth, transport, and other operational activities with accuracy
• Emergency Response: Respond to issues such as equipment failure or water quality changes to protect fish health

Schedule

• Seasonal, full-time employment for a 7-month assignment with opportunity for advancement to a full-time position
• Work hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30-minute lunch break
• May require some weekend, evening, and holiday work as well as standby time

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or equivalent certification of formal training
• Possession of a valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License
• Must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License that permits the operation of vehicles of 26,000 lbs. or more prior to completing the probationary period
• Must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements
• Must be able to perform essential job functions

Additional Information

• This position does not receive medical benefits
• Paid time off accrues after working 750 regular (non-overtime) hours in each calendar year
• No telework option is available for this position
• A conditional offer of employment will require a drug screening
• This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law, requiring submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports, including PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI Fingerprint clearance