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Fish Hatchery Technician

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Fish Hatchery Technician

Salary

$45,864.00 - $67,974.40 Annually

Location

Moravia - 52571 - Appanoose County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-02976

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

04/24/2025

Closing Date

5/8/2025 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

[email protected]; 641-647-2406

To Apply

The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

Job Description

Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.

The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.

Join the Team!

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) employs over 850 employees that are dedicated to protecting Iowa’s natural resources and providing citizens recreational opportunities to enjoy them. The Iowa DNR’s mission is to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations. If our mission aligns with your personal goals and you want to work alongside committed and passionate coworkers, then you should consider the Iowa DNR as your next employer.

We currently have an open Fish Hatchery Technician (Natural Resources Technician 2) position that is an integral part of our Fish Culture Team. The primary job duties of the successful candidate are fish culture, fish distribution, buildings, grounds, and equipment maintenance; and data collection and entry. The successful candidate will gain experience with intensive and extensive aquaculture systems working with species such as Walleyes, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Paddlefish, Muskellunge, and others.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Rathbun Fish Hatchery propagates, cultures, and distributes Walleye, Channel Catfish, Muskellunge, Largemouth Bass, Paddlefish, and other species as assigned to meet the stocking requests from Iowa DNR fisheries managers. The successful candidate for this Fish Hatchery Technician position will work with the hatchery team to ensure that the requested species, size, and numbers of fish are produced and stocked throughout the state to ultimately provide recreational opportunities for Iowa anglers. The primary job duties include fish culture, fish distribution, and buildings, grounds, and equipment maintenance.

Fish culture duties start with collecting wild adult Walleye broodfish in the spring and then transporting them to the hatchery where they are sorted by sex and spawning readiness. The Fish Hatchery Technician keeps accurate records of numbers and sex captured by site. After collecting eggs/semen from adult fish they are returned to their capture location. In the hatchery, eggs are fertilized and measured into hatching jars. Throughout the incubation period, the Fish Hatchery Technician ensures that proper incubation conditions are maintained, records egg volume and other data to be used in calculating hatch rates, applies chemical treatments, monitors fry hatch, and cleans catch tank screens. After hatching, fry are removed to prevent overcrowding and then stocked into lakes throughout Iowa or into hatchery ponds for Phase 1 production.

Walleye, Largemouth Bass, and Paddlefish are reared from fry to two-inch fingerling size during Phase 1 production. This phase starts with enumeration of fry so a known number are stocked into plastic-lined outdoor ponds. Ponds are fertilized to produce zooplankton to provide a food source for stocked fry. The Fish Hatchery Technician periodically samples water quality, enumerates zooplankton, and records lengths and weights from fish samples and uses these data to schedule pond harvest. These fish are then stocked into rivers and lakes throughout Iowa or remain on site for further growout. During Phase 2 of Walleye production, they are trained to eat a pelleted diet in a dark room in the hatchery. During this phase, the Fish Hatchery Technician cleans tanks daily to ensure sanitary conditions, diagnoses and treats diseases, samples fish to estimate size and calculate growth rates, and grades Walleye fingerlings to create uniform lots of fish to minimize cannibalism.

Walleye from Phase 2 production and Channel Catfish are grown to an advanced fingerling size on pelleted feed in indoor or outdoor production units. During this phase, the Fish Hatchery Technician cleans production units daily to ensure sanitary conditions, diagnoses and treats diseases, and samples fish to estimate size and calculate growth rates. Channel Catfish are fed once daily by hand to apparent satiation.

During all phases, the Fish Hatchery Technician trains and leads a team of up to three seasonal aides in normal daily culture duties including cleaning fish culture units; observing and monitoring fish behavior; recording mortalities, performing necropsies, and determining causative agents if fish health is compromised; determining treatments, calculating proper dosages, and applying treatments that satisfy any applicable INAD exemption requirements; monitoring and conducting water quality analyses; monitoring fish growth and ensuring correct feed amounts are delivered by calibrating feeders; and cleaning and disinfecting fish culture units at the conclusion of production cycle.

When fish reach target size, the Fish Hatchery Technician assists with creating an efficient stocking plan, harvesting fish, and fish distribution. During fish harvest, size is estimated to determine the correct weight/number of fish to be stocked at each location, and fish are inspected to ensure that no extraneous species are being inadvertently stocked with the target species. The Fish Hatchery Technician loads fish onto distribution units at safe densities and then administers chemical treatments to transport tanks to reduce stress or for the control of Zebra Mussel veligers. During transport, the Fish Hatchery Technician monitors environmental factors to prevent fish mortality and minimize stress.

In addition to fish culture and distribution duties, the Fish Hatchery Technician is responsible for assisting with building, grounds, and equipment maintenance to provide clean, attractive, and safe working environment for employees and members of the public. Building maintenance includes, but is not limited to participating in a rotation for cleaning public areas of the Hatchery. Grounds maintenance includes, but is not limited to mowing, tree trimming, and removal of brush. Equipment is to be kept in good operating condition at all times, including, but not limited to replacement, repair, and design and construction of new equipment as needed in cooperation with other team members. The Fish Hatchery Technician also assists with building gill nets, dip nets, and seines, and is required to understand the operation of all water and electrical systems used at the Hatchery.

This position also has administrative, training, and meeting duties typical of a State of Iowa employee in a fish hatchery. All employees at Rathbun Fish Hatchery are expected to promote good public relations at all times by responding to inquiries in a courteous, respectful, and professional manner. The Fish Hatchery Technician will conduct hatchery tours and answer questions from members of the public as needed. Finally, this position will provide assistance to other Fisheries Bureau teams, other Iowa DNR Bureaus, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and County Conservation Boards as needed and as time allows.

Essential Functions

Fish propagation, culture, and distribution.

Daily fish culture duties.

Data collection, data entry, and record keeping.

Maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment.

Critical Job Competencies

Fisheries Biology, Animal Husbandry, Team Player, Integrity, Accountability, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Mathematical Reasoning, Creative Thinking & Reasoning, Problem Solving, Interpersonal Skills, Technical Competence (fisheries and maintenance), Communication Skills (oral and written), Customer Service, Computer Skills, Information Management, Self-Management, Flexibility, Attention to Detail, High Productivity, Common Sense, Positive Attitude.

What You Get From Us:

+ A competitive pay plan and rewarding work.

+ Insurance benefits that start the first of the month following 30 days of employment.

(Premiums can start as low as $64/month for single and $210/month for family coverage).

+ Separate vacation and sick leave accruals that start on the first day and can roll over annually.

+ Nine paid holidays/year.

+ Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) retirement package with employer match.

+ Optional deferred compensation (457/401A) plan with employer match.

+ Professional training opportunities.

+ Family friendly and professional work environment.

+ Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling)

+ The State’s total compensation package features benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. For a list of additional benefits, please visit the DAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more information.

+ Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).

Comments

Must possess/obtain valid driver's license. Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Pesticide Applicator license with category 5 certification within 6 months of employment.

Normal hours are 7:30 am - 4:00 pm Monday through Friday with participation in a year-round weekend work rotation. Standby duty mandatory, therefore employee must live (or arrange for temporary housing when on standby) within 15 miles of the Rathbun Fish Hatchery. May be required to work 2nd shift during broodstock collection and spawning operations. Some travel with overnight lodging required.

College or university students that are pending graduation in May 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in a natural science are eligible to apply for this position.

The starting salary for new state (Executive Branch) employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Additional salary increases may occur after the first six months, and then annually (if applicable). The State’s total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. Visit theDAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/state-employment/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.

Ensure you are kept up-to-date of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from [email protected] (file://iowa.gov.state.ia.us/data/DNRUsers/mforbes0/My%20Documents/[email protected]) . This is a system generated email from the DAS application system and it may be sent directly to your Junk/Spam folder.

DNR Application Tips (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment)

For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the DNR Employment (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment) website.

The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Iowa DNR Mission

To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.

Selectives

900Fisheries Biology

6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

The equivalent of three years of full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting 30 semester hours of college level course work in a biological or natural resources program for each year of the required experience;

OR

employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes the equivalent of 12 months of full-time experience as a Natural Resources Technician 1 shall be considered as qualified.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\_and\_pay/JobClassDescriptions/NaturalResourcesTechnician2-05331.pdf)

Additional Qualification Requirements

Certain designated positions require the employee to be certified by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as a Pesticide Applicator within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

+ Yes - I understand and agree.

+ No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

+ No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

+ Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

How many years do you have of full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program?

+ Less than three years of the full-time experience identified

+ Three years or more of the full-time experience identified

04

How many years do you have of a combination of college level course work in a biological or natural resources program AND/OR full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.

+ I do not have of the education AND/OR experience

+ Less than three years of the combined education and/or experience

+ Three years or more of the combined education and/or experience

05

Are you a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch? IF YES - How many months do you have of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa?

+ I am not a current State of Iowa employee

+ I do not have any experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa

+ Less than 12 months of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa

+ 12 months or more of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa

06

Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in Fisheries Biology?

+ Yes

+ No

07

If you answered "Yes" to the question above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please type in "No" in the box below.

08

After reviewing the list of essential functions for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources position you are applying for, please answer the following question: Based on the list of essential functions listed within the job announcement, are you able to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without a reasonable accommodation?

+ Yes

+ No

09

Reference Checks: If you are one of the top candidates for this position, the Hiring Team may wish to contact the references provided by you or any others we deem appropriate in order to verify your current or prior employment for the purpose of evaluation of your qualifications for the above position. Any information obtained through a reference check shall be kept confidential to the extent allowed under the Iowa Open Records Act (Iowa Code chapter 22). Please list below three professional business references, including at least one current or former supervisor. Please provide name, title, organization, relationship to you, phone, email, and full address of the reference. You may attach these to your application or type them in the box provided below.

Required Question

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Address

6200 Park Ave

STE 200

Des Moines, Iowa, 50321

Website

http://www.iowadnr.gov/

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