Hatchery Manager Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Hatchery Manager positions frequently qualify for H-1B visa and EB-2 sponsorship due to specialized aquaculture knowledge requirements. Most roles require a bachelor's degree in marine biology, fisheries science, or related field. Large commercial aquaculture operations and government research facilities commonly sponsor international candidates for these specialized management positions. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Classification- Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training)
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division
Duty Station- Ringold Springs/Meseberg Hatchery – Mesa, Washington – Franklin County
Housing- Housing is not provided
Standby- Standby is not currently assigned
In-Training- We are recruiting to hire at the Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 or 2 level, and we will train a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 up to the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2.
Salary- Depending on which level you are hired at, your salary range will be as follows:
Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 Salary Range: $3,653.00 - $4,866.00,
Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 Salary Range: $4,004.00 - $5,376.00
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW! Fall Chinook salmon at a hatchery in Region 3 – Photo Credit: WDFW
Support salmon, steelhead, and trout conservation efforts while providing sustainable recreational, tribal, and commercial opportunities in the state of Washington.
Join the Ringold Springs/Meseberg Hatchery team and perform scientific, technical, and related maintenance duties within the hatchery.
In this dynamic role, you will help raise and release a variety of fish to include fall Chinook, coho, steelhead, rainbow trout, and tiger muskie!
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 will,
Perform Fish Culture:
- Calculate and feed fish according to pond populations and weight samples, adjusting feed size and amount fed as needed.
- Monitor fish behavior, health, and production.
- Administer therapeutics and calculate/administer drugs as prescribed.
- Clean ponds, raceways, troughs, and incubator systems to maintain fish health.
- Pick egg loss by hand or using equipment, fertilize eggs according to pre-determined ratios, and incubate eggs using a variety of vessels.
- Identify marked adults and collect tags/marks for biological sampling.
- Load fish into trucks for transport according to safe hauling densities, utilizing proper oxygen levels and monitoring fish during transport.
Record Keeping and Reporting:
- Use computers and software for data entry, record keeping, and reporting within and outside of the agency.
- Fill out and submit agency forms such as fish transfer tickets, hatchery invoice forms, and other relevant forms.
- Perform water quality analysis and discharge monitoring reports (DMR) as required by the Department of Ecology to maintain hatchery discharge permits (NPDES).
Operation and Maintenance of Facility and Equipment:
- Maintain proper water flow and rearing environments.
- Perform standby which requires responding to alarms and taking appropriate action to preserve facility programs, tests alarms and reports failures to agency personnel.
- Monitor and maintain facility support systems to include diesel generators, domestic, alarm panels, and other support systems.
- Actively identify safety hazards and take action or recommend remedies.
- Apply herbicides or controlled burning for weed control.
- Assist in design/fabrication of needed hatchery equipment (e.g., fish racks, weirs, intake screens, fish transfer equipment, adult fish gates) using metal, aluminum, plastic, and wood.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work Setting, including hazards:
Work is performed outside in all weather conditions. Perform strenuous physical activities such as repetitively lifting 50-pound bags of fish feed or salt. Use a respirator and other personal protective equipment (PPE) while working with various chemicals used at the facility. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule:
Typically, Saturday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Work hours may vary greatly at different times of the year, depending on the work schedule and weather conditions.
Standby:
Standby duties are not currently assigned. This position may require standby, which involves overseeing the facility for the remaining 16 hours of the day when on duty. The standby schedule consists of working 10 consecutive days, including 7 days of standby duty, followed by 4 days off. All applicants applying for this position should understand that standby is a requirement for all positions in the Fish Hatchery Specialist series. Management may determine it is necessary to assign it in order to accomplish the goals and objectives of the agency and as necessary to protect the resources of the agency and if assigned, it will be a requirement of the position.
Housing:
Housing is not provided for this position.
Tools and Equipment:
Power tools, hand tools, lawn care equipment, tractors, forklifts, welding equipment, egg picking machines, water sampling instruments, transport trucks, passenger vehicles, adult fish pumps, adult fish counters, coded wire tag (CWT) identification equipment, trash pumps, pressure washers, diesel generators, small gas engine, and computers.
Customer Interactions:
Interact professionally with members of the public, volunteers, and other agency staff on a regular basis.
Qualifications
This Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training) series provides mentoring and career development opportunities for candidates with limited hatchery and fish culture experience.
Candidates will be hired as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 or 2, dependent on skills and experience.
Upon satisfactory completion of the 12-month in-training plan, the selected candidate will automatically be promoted to a Fish Hatchery Specialist 2.
Required Qualifications for the Fish Hatchery Specialist 1:
Option 1: An Associate’s degree in fisheries technology, biology, or a closely related field.
Option 2: Three (3) years of education towards a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or a closely related field.
Option 3: Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school.
Option 4: Three (3) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.
Required Qualifications for the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (Goal Class):
Option 1: One (1) year of experience as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 AND successful completion of agency supervised training program.
Option 2: An Associate’s degree in fisheries technology, biology, or closely related field AND one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Option 3: Two (2) years of education towards a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or closely related field AND one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Option 4: Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school AND one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Please Note: Three (3) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery may substitute for the required education.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
- Two (2) or four (4) year degree in fisheries or closely related field.
Your application should include the following:
- A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three (3) professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
Union- WAFHP:
These positions are in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Hatchery Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish Hatchery Professionals (WAFHP).
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:
Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Ashley.Lee@dfw.wa.gov.
- Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
+ Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2026-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation:
Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties:
If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Other questions:
If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to Ashley.Lee@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-05823.
Know someone who would like to volunteer?
WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
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Description
Classification- Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training)
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division
Duty Station- Ringold Springs/Meseberg Hatchery – Mesa, Washington – Franklin County
Housing- Housing is not provided
Standby- Standby is not currently assigned
In-Training- We are recruiting to hire at the Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 or 2 level, and we will train a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 up to the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2.
Salary- Depending on which level you are hired at, your salary range will be as follows:
Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 Salary Range: $3,653.00 - $4,866.00,
Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 Salary Range: $4,004.00 - $5,376.00
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW! Fall Chinook salmon at a hatchery in Region 3 – Photo Credit: WDFW
Support salmon, steelhead, and trout conservation efforts while providing sustainable recreational, tribal, and commercial opportunities in the state of Washington.
Join the Ringold Springs/Meseberg Hatchery team and perform scientific, technical, and related maintenance duties within the hatchery.
In this dynamic role, you will help raise and release a variety of fish to include fall Chinook, coho, steelhead, rainbow trout, and tiger muskie!
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 will,
Perform Fish Culture:
- Calculate and feed fish according to pond populations and weight samples, adjusting feed size and amount fed as needed.
- Monitor fish behavior, health, and production.
- Administer therapeutics and calculate/administer drugs as prescribed.
- Clean ponds, raceways, troughs, and incubator systems to maintain fish health.
- Pick egg loss by hand or using equipment, fertilize eggs according to pre-determined ratios, and incubate eggs using a variety of vessels.
- Identify marked adults and collect tags/marks for biological sampling.
- Load fish into trucks for transport according to safe hauling densities, utilizing proper oxygen levels and monitoring fish during transport.
Record Keeping and Reporting:
- Use computers and software for data entry, record keeping, and reporting within and outside of the agency.
- Fill out and submit agency forms such as fish transfer tickets, hatchery invoice forms, and other relevant forms.
- Perform water quality analysis and discharge monitoring reports (DMR) as required by the Department of Ecology to maintain hatchery discharge permits (NPDES).
Operation and Maintenance of Facility and Equipment:
- Maintain proper water flow and rearing environments.
- Perform standby which requires responding to alarms and taking appropriate action to preserve facility programs, tests alarms and reports failures to agency personnel.
- Monitor and maintain facility support systems to include diesel generators, domestic, alarm panels, and other support systems.
- Actively identify safety hazards and take action or recommend remedies.
- Apply herbicides or controlled burning for weed control.
- Assist in design/fabrication of needed hatchery equipment (e.g., fish racks, weirs, intake screens, fish transfer equipment, adult fish gates) using metal, aluminum, plastic, and wood.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work Setting, including hazards:
Work is performed outside in all weather conditions. Perform strenuous physical activities such as repetitively lifting 50-pound bags of fish feed or salt. Use a respirator and other personal protective equipment (PPE) while working with various chemicals used at the facility. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule:
Typically, Saturday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Work hours may vary greatly at different times of the year, depending on the work schedule and weather conditions.
Standby:
Standby duties are not currently assigned. This position may require standby, which involves overseeing the facility for the remaining 16 hours of the day when on duty. The standby schedule consists of working 10 consecutive days, including 7 days of standby duty, followed by 4 days off. All applicants applying for this position should understand that standby is a requirement for all positions in the Fish Hatchery Specialist series. Management may determine it is necessary to assign it in order to accomplish the goals and objectives of the agency and as necessary to protect the resources of the agency and if assigned, it will be a requirement of the position.
Housing:
Housing is not provided for this position.
Tools and Equipment:
Power tools, hand tools, lawn care equipment, tractors, forklifts, welding equipment, egg picking machines, water sampling instruments, transport trucks, passenger vehicles, adult fish pumps, adult fish counters, coded wire tag (CWT) identification equipment, trash pumps, pressure washers, diesel generators, small gas engine, and computers.
Customer Interactions:
Interact professionally with members of the public, volunteers, and other agency staff on a regular basis.
Qualifications
This Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (In-Training) series provides mentoring and career development opportunities for candidates with limited hatchery and fish culture experience.
Candidates will be hired as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 or 2, dependent on skills and experience.
Upon satisfactory completion of the 12-month in-training plan, the selected candidate will automatically be promoted to a Fish Hatchery Specialist 2.
Required Qualifications for the Fish Hatchery Specialist 1:
Option 1: An Associate’s degree in fisheries technology, biology, or a closely related field.
Option 2: Three (3) years of education towards a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or a closely related field.
Option 3: Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school.
Option 4: Three (3) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.
Required Qualifications for the Fish Hatchery Specialist 2 (Goal Class):
Option 1: One (1) year of experience as a Fish Hatchery Specialist 1 AND successful completion of agency supervised training program.
Option 2: An Associate’s degree in fisheries technology, biology, or closely related field AND one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Option 3: Two (2) years of education towards a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, biology, or closely related field AND one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Option 4: Successful completion of a fish culture program from a vocational school AND one (1) year of experience performing fish culture duties in a hatchery.
Please Note: Three (3) years of experience performing a variety of fish culture duties in a hatchery may substitute for the required education.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
- Two (2) or four (4) year degree in fisheries or closely related field.
Your application should include the following:
- A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three (3) professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
Union- WAFHP:
These positions are in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Hatchery Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish Hatchery Professionals (WAFHP).
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:
Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Ashley.Lee@dfw.wa.gov.
- Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
+ Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2026-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation:
Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties:
If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Other questions:
If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to Ashley.Lee@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-05823.
Know someone who would like to volunteer?
WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
See all 3,939+ Hatchery Manager Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Hatchery Manager
Target aquaculture companies with federal contracts
Government contractors and USDA-affiliated facilities regularly sponsor H-1B visas for specialized aquaculture roles. These employers understand the shortage of qualified hatchery managers and actively recruit internationally.
Emphasize specialized breeding and genetics experience
Experience with selective breeding programs, genetic improvement, or disease management strengthens your H-1B case. These specialized skills demonstrate the specialty occupation nature required for visa approval.
Consider seasonal facilities in Alaska and Pacific Northwest
Salmon hatcheries and shellfish operations in these regions face significant labor shortages. Many facilities sponsor H-1B visas for experienced managers, especially those with cold-water species expertise.
Highlight advanced aquaculture systems knowledge
Experience with recirculating aquaculture systems, water quality management, or automated feeding systems strengthens sponsorship applications. These technical skills justify the specialized degree requirement for H-1B approval.
Research university-affiliated hatchery programs
Academic research facilities often sponsor H-1B and EB-2 visas for managers with research experience. University hatcheries conducting breeding research frequently need specialized international talent for management roles.
Document production optimization achievements
Quantified improvements in survival rates, growth performance, or operational efficiency demonstrate extraordinary ability for EB-1A applications. These achievements can differentiate you from other hatchery management candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree is required for H-1B sponsorship as a Hatchery Manager?
Most H-1B petitions for Hatchery Manager positions require a bachelor's degree in marine biology, fisheries science, aquaculture, or related biological science. Some employers accept degrees in biology or zoology with relevant aquaculture experience. The degree must directly relate to hatchery operations and fish production management to satisfy USCIS specialty occupation requirements.
Do Hatchery Manager positions qualify for EB-2 green card sponsorship?
Yes, Hatchery Manager roles typically qualify for EB-2 sponsorship, especially those requiring advanced degrees or exceptional ability in aquaculture. Managers with specialized experience in breeding programs, disease management, or production optimization may qualify for EB-2 National Interest Waiver, potentially bypassing the PERM labor certification requirement for faster processing.
What are H-1B approval rates for Hatchery Manager positions?
Hatchery Manager positions have strong H-1B approval rates when properly documented as specialty occupations requiring biological science degrees. Positions at established aquaculture facilities, research institutions, or government contractors typically see higher approval rates due to clear specialty occupation requirements and legitimate business needs for specialized expertise.
Can international experience in fish farming help with visa sponsorship?
Yes, international aquaculture experience significantly strengthens visa applications. Experience with different species, production systems, or regulatory environments demonstrates specialized knowledge valuable to U.S. operations. Document specific achievements like production increases, disease control successes, or new system implementations to support specialty occupation or extraordinary ability claims.
Do smaller hatchery operations sponsor H-1B visas?
Smaller hatchery operations occasionally sponsor H-1B visas but face challenges with legal costs and USCIS scrutiny regarding legitimate business need. Family-owned or regional facilities may struggle to justify specialized degree requirements. Focus on larger commercial operations, university research facilities, or government-affiliated hatcheries with established sponsorship programs and clear specialty occupation needs.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Hatchery Manager jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
How to find Hatchery Manager jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Hatchery Manager jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with employers offering work visas. Focus on aquaculture companies, fish farms, and agricultural corporations that frequently sponsor H-1B, TN visa, or other work visas for specialized roles. These employers often need experienced hatchery professionals and are willing to sponsor qualified international candidates.