Fish Culturist III- YKFP

Hourly wage: $18.23–$20.52. Regular, full-time position located in Cle Elum/Toppenish.

Responsibilities

• Support the Hatchery Manager in operating and maintaining fish hatcheries.
• Direct and monitor staff involved in all phases of hatchery operations to achieve management goals.
• Schedule subordinate work and assist in trapping and selecting adult salmon for artificial spawning, egg collection, traying, shocking, counting, setting proper water flow, and monitoring egg development.
• Transport fish to appropriate sites.
• Monitor water levels, determine feeding schedules, and observe fish for disease or parasites; administer treatments as needed.
• Dissect dead or spawned-out salmon to check for egg retention and collect viral samples for disease analysis.
• Consult with supervisors to determine liberation schedules; drive liberation tank trucks to scheduled sites.
• Establish feeding schedules to coordinate fish growth with pond availability and release dates.
• Assist in planning production schedules.
• Collect, record, and report observational data; maintain activity logs and prepare periodic reports.
• Monitor and treat hatchery water to maintain proper levels of dissolved gases, suspended solids, temperature, and pH.
• Maintain genetic diversity through proper broodstock selection of wild stock populations.
• Coordinate with management in project planning, setting goals, and adjusting priorities as conditions require.
• Oversee facility operations in the absence of the Hatchery Manager or Assistant Manager.
• Abide by Yakama Nation Rules and Regulations.

Requirements

• Minimum of a two-year Fishery Technology degree.
• Two years of hatchery experience.
• One year of supervisory experience.
• Pass a pre-employment drug test.
• Possess a valid Washington State Driver’s License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving Permit.

Skills

• Knowledge of salmonid species, life history, common fish diseases, and treatments.
• Understanding of fish habits, egg care, and propagation techniques.
• Familiarity with hatchery equipment, supplies, and maintenance of buildings and grounds.
• Ability to operate and maintain hatchery machinery and equipment.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain hatchery records.
• Experience directing and working with employees.

Enrolled Yakama preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.