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9901
HATCHERY TECHNICIAN
Nature of Work
Under general supervision, performs skilled work in
hatching, growing and distributing fish and general maintenance
of fish hatchery buildings, grounds, and equipment. Work can be
physically demanding and performed in varying climatic
conditions. Incumbent may be required to supervise small groups
on specific projects or act as assistant to the Hatchery Manager.
Performs related work as required.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Applies knowledge of fish cultural techniques directly to
the handling, spawning, growing, and distribution of fish. May
supervise other workers. Reports to Hatchery Manager or
assistant. In the Manager's absence may be temporarily assigned
to manage the facility.
Examples of Work
Spawns fish in season and monitors progress of hatching
operation from egg incubation through all life stages until
stocking.
Weighs, counts and grades fish or fingerlings; loads them
into holding tanks on trucks for transportation to stocking
site.
Transports fingerling and stocking-sized fish and releases
them into specified waters.
Schedules feeding and rearing activities.
Monitors hatchery water quality by making various chemical
tests, adjusts water supply to desired quality.
Monitors fish health by observation and laboratory work.
Treats fish diseases and abnormalities by adding medication
to food and water.
Feeds pre-determined rations to fish on an established
schedule.
Writes reports detailing hatchery projects, activities and
inventory.
Constructs and repairs screens, gates, traps, nets, seines,
and other equipment used in holding and caring for fish.
Cleans rearing units, ponds, raceways, and other hatchery
equipment with brushes, chemicals and water; makes routine
repairs on all hatchery equipment.
Removes and disposes of mortalities from stock.
Conducts tours of the hatchery and answers visitors'
questions.
May perform finished carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and
masonry work.
May work on acid stream neutralization projects.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of fish culture and management.
Knowledge of native fish species and their habitat
requirements.
Knowledge of hatchery operations and procedures.
Knowledge of procedures followed in identification of fish
diseases, dietary disorders, parasitic infestations, and
other problems involved in fish culture.
Knowledge of basic building maintenance trades.
Knowledge of basic safety regulations and precautionary
measures.
Skill in the operation of hatchery tools and equipment.
Skill in basic first aid procedures.
Skill in operation of simple machines, motors, and tools.
Ability to make minor repairs on equipment used, such as:
farm tractor and attachments, chainsaw, two-ton truck, lawn
mower, water pump, generator, and small hand tools.
Ability to properly monitor hatchery water to assure quality
control.
Ability to construct and repair hatchery equipment.
Ability to perform some arduous manual tasks for long hours
under varying climatic conditions.
Ability to lead the work of others and maintain effective
working relationships with the general public, supervisors,
and co-workers.
Ability to meet the public and maintain control courteously.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions with limited
supervision.
Minimum Qualifications
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Training:
An associate degree in fish or wildlife technology
or fishery management.
Substitution:
Two years of college training in a natural
science area may be substituted for the associate degree OR
two years of full-time or equivalent part-time paid
experience in fish or wildlife management, fish culture, or
agriculture may be substituted for the associate degree.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: For employment at a state fish
hatchery applicants must obtain a valid Commercial driver's
license within six months of original appointment or
transfer or be dismissed.
Established: 9/17/92
Revised: 5/2/95
Effective:
5/2/95