Fish Culturist

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is hiring a Fish Culturist for its Nampa Fish Hatchery. The role involves hands-on fish culture tasks, teamwork, and physical work in various weather conditions. Candidates should have some coursework in aquaculture or related fields and at least one year of experience. The position offers a salary of $21.04 to $25.35 per hour, with benefits and opportunities for professional growth.
Position Overview

Application Deadline: 06/16/2025
Starting Date: After 06/16/2025
Hours per Week: At least 40
Salary: $21.04 to $25.35 per hour
Education Required: Some undergraduate coursework (associate degree or relevant credits in aquaculture, fish biology, or related field)
Experience Required: At least 1 year

Description

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is seeking a Fish Culturist to join its hatchery operations at the Nampa Fish Hatchery in Nampa, Idaho, with future statewide opportunities possible. As a Fish Culturist, you will play a key role in the production, care, and distribution of fish species, supporting Idaho’s aquatic resources and conservation efforts. The position requires hands-on fish culture work, teamwork, on-call schedules, and physical tasks in all weather conditions. IDFG offers excellent benefits, work-life balance, and opportunities for ongoing training and professional growth.

Responsibilities
• Spawn fish and monitor development of eggs and fry
• Implement feeding schedules and monitor fish growth
• Clean tanks, raceways, and maintain water quality
• Observe fish for signs of stress or disease and apply treatments
• Grade and sort fish, track inventory, and manage daily fish mortality
• Load, transport, and release fish to designated locations
• Maintain records and contribute to reports documenting hatchery activities
• Conduct hatchery tours and engage with the public
• Perform maintenance on hatchery equipment, vehicles, and buildings
• May act as crew leader and supervise temporary staff

Minimum Requirements
• Good knowledge of aquaculture, ichthyology, and fish husbandry (typically gained by relevant coursework or hatchery experience)
• Some knowledge of report writing with scientific or biological data
• Experience communicating orally in individual and group settings
• Experience entering and retrieving data, and preparing statistical or maintenance reports
• Ability to lift and carry 50+ lbs, stand and work in cold water for up to 8 hours
• Willingness to work rotational on-call schedules, weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Ability to work in all weather conditions and with exposure to chemicals and heavy equipment

Preferred Qualifications
• Associate degree or technical certificate in Aquaculture, Fish Biology, or related biological science
• Experience performing minor maintenance on engines, pumps, or vehicles
• Familiarity with using hand, power, or mechanical tools
• Some positions may require a Class “B” CDL or willingness to obtain one (not required for Nampa opening)

Additional Notes
• Incumbent is required to live on station at some locations
• No housing provided for Nampa opening
• Position funded by license sales revenue
• Generous benefits including medical, dental, vision, state retirement, paid leave, and more
• EEO/Veteran’s Preference applies

How to Apply

Apply online at https://statecareers.idaho.gov/jobs/16195134-fish-culturist. Ensure your resume highlights relevant coursework and experience. Applications accepted until 4:59 PM MDT on the posting end date.

Contact:
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
Website: https://idfg.idaho.gov/