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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Title- Hatchery Evaluation and Assessment Biologist
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division
Duty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
Hybrid/Telework- This position offers a hybrid work schedule, with at least one (1) day per week onsite at the Olympia, WA duty station and up to four (4) days of telework. The selected candidate must be available to work onsite for in-person meetings and to meet business needs.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Hatchery summer Chinook salmon – Photo Credit: Chase Gunnell
Are you passionate about fisheries science and conserving salmon and steelhead populations? In this role, you’ll use your scientific expertise to help shape hatchery programs that support fish recovery, sustainable fisheries, and long-term conservation goals.
You’ll analyze hatchery performance, develop science-based management plans, and turn complex research and data into recommendations that guide hatchery operations across Washington. You’ll also collaborate with tribal, federal, and state partners to address challenging fisheries management issues and help ensure hatchery programs align with conservation objectives and environmental requirements.
If you’re ready to put your fisheries expertise to work on decisions that make a lasting difference for Washington’s salmon and steelhead, this could be the opportunity for you!
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Hatchery Evaluation and Assessment Biologist will,
Develop Technical Documents:
- Use internal and external data resources and the best available science, along with knowledge of salmon life histories, biological recruitment, and hatchery operations, to prepare Hatchery Genetic and Management Plans (HGMPs), resource management plans, hatchery performance tables, and other related documents to assess artificial propagation programs for compliance with federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements and agency policy C-3624.
- Apply analytical models to evaluate hatchery program sizes and potential stray rates.
- Review and provide comments on Biological Opinions, Biological Assessments, Resource Management Plans (RMPs), and Terms and Condition reports.
Data Collection and Management:
- Collect, interpret, analyze, and evaluate hatchery production data in cooperation with hatchery staff, hatchery operation managers, regional fish program managers, district biologists, hatchery data management team, and science division staff.
- Update hatchery performance tables for statewide salmon and steelhead programs using coded wire tag (CWT) data, hatchery release records, catch record cards, tribal harvest information, and hatchery escapement reports.
- Retrieve data from Fishbooks, the Regional Mark Information System (RMIS), and other data sources for hatchery performance analysis.
- Develop and apply skills in R programming to assist with data analysis.
Communication, Cooperation, and Coordination:
- Participate in meetings with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), co-managers, and internal staff to support the management of artificial propagation programs.
- Collaborate with Fish Program staff to support hatchery reform, including sound science on reducing hatchery impacts on natural populations.
- Provide recommendations to managers and policymakers regarding salmon and hatchery management and research studies using sound science.
- Communicate findings orally and in writing to managers and other units, including presentations at professional conferences.
- Provide updates of hatchery performance to management.
Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards:
Work is conducted primarily through telework (remote), with a minimum of one day per week in the office. Fieldwork (approximately 5%) may be required to collect scientific data, primarily at agency hatcheries. Fieldwork may involve adverse weather and challenging outdoor conditions, including deep snow, slippery rocks, steep banks, and sticky mud. Travel to and from field sites may be required. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule:
Work hours may vary but must be available during core hours of 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, primarily Monday through Friday. The position may require working outside a standard work week or scheduled work hours to accommodate fieldwork, meetings, and site visits throughout the year. A flexible work schedule may be considered with supervisory approval.
Travel Requirements:
Local and regional travel may be required to meet with regional staff, attend committee meetings, evaluate properties, conduct general business, and attend or provide training.
Tools and Equipment:
Standard office furniture and equipment, including a desk, filing cabinet, computer, printer, telephone, copier, as well as a motor vehicle. Rain Gear, chest waders, a personal floatation device (PFD), biological sampling tools, and other appropriate safety equipment.
Customer Interactions:
Frequent interaction with clients, including individuals who may be angry, distraught, or frustrated. Frequent interaction with external partners, including state and federal agencies and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:
- Two (2) years of experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.
Option 2:
- A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or a closely related field, including 12 semester or 18 quarter hours of specific coursework in fisheries, ichthyology, limnology, biology, or closely related fields.
AND
- Three (3) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
In addition to meeting one of the options listed above, the following are also required and may be gained concurrently:
- Knowledge of fish hatchery operations.
- General knowledge of salmon culture and life history.
- Ability to use general computer programs, including Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Teams, as well as data management and analysis programs, such as Excel.
Please Note:
- A Master’s Degree in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
- A Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience.
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:
Experience:
- Experience using the Regional Mark Information System (RMIS) and working with coded wire tags (CWT).
- Experience using models to assess hatchery-wild interactions, such as the All “H” Analyzer (AHA), Demographic Geneflow Model (DGM), Chinook Assessment Model (CAM), or other relevant models.
- Experience using statistical programs, including R.
- Demonstrated experience in technical writing and oral presentations.
Knowledge of:
- Washington State fish hatchery systems.
- Hatchery reform.
- The federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) process.
- Fisheries research on salmonids.
- Fisheries co-management under United States v. Washington.
- Pacific Northwest salmonids, including species life history, population dynamics, habitats, and fish identification.
- The theory of domestication selection and its impacts to both natural and artificial salmonid production.
- The scientific method and experience with experimental design.
Certifications:
- American Fisheries Society (AFS) Certified Fisheries Professional.
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- WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife 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 & Wildlife Professionals.
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 #2026-08584.
Know someone who would like to volunteer? WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
Description
Title- Hatchery Evaluation and Assessment Biologist
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division
Duty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
Hybrid/Telework- This position offers a hybrid work schedule, with at least one (1) day per week onsite at the Olympia, WA duty station and up to four (4) days of telework. The selected candidate must be available to work onsite for in-person meetings and to meet business needs.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Hatchery summer Chinook salmon – Photo Credit: Chase Gunnell
Are you passionate about fisheries science and conserving salmon and steelhead populations? In this role, you’ll use your scientific expertise to help shape hatchery programs that support fish recovery, sustainable fisheries, and long-term conservation goals.
You’ll analyze hatchery performance, develop science-based management plans, and turn complex research and data into recommendations that guide hatchery operations across Washington. You’ll also collaborate with tribal, federal, and state partners to address challenging fisheries management issues and help ensure hatchery programs align with conservation objectives and environmental requirements.
If you’re ready to put your fisheries expertise to work on decisions that make a lasting difference for Washington’s salmon and steelhead, this could be the opportunity for you!
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Hatchery Evaluation and Assessment Biologist will,
Develop Technical Documents:
- Use internal and external data resources and the best available science, along with knowledge of salmon life histories, biological recruitment, and hatchery operations, to prepare Hatchery Genetic and Management Plans (HGMPs), resource management plans, hatchery performance tables, and other related documents to assess artificial propagation programs for compliance with federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements and agency policy C-3624.
- Apply analytical models to evaluate hatchery program sizes and potential stray rates.
- Review and provide comments on Biological Opinions, Biological Assessments, Resource Management Plans (RMPs), and Terms and Condition reports.
Data Collection and Management:
- Collect, interpret, analyze, and evaluate hatchery production data in cooperation with hatchery staff, hatchery operation managers, regional fish program managers, district biologists, hatchery data management team, and science division staff.
- Update hatchery performance tables for statewide salmon and steelhead programs using coded wire tag (CWT) data, hatchery release records, catch record cards, tribal harvest information, and hatchery escapement reports.
- Retrieve data from Fishbooks, the Regional Mark Information System (RMIS), and other data sources for hatchery performance analysis.
- Develop and apply skills in R programming to assist with data analysis.
Communication, Cooperation, and Coordination:
- Participate in meetings with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), co-managers, and internal staff to support the management of artificial propagation programs.
- Collaborate with Fish Program staff to support hatchery reform, including sound science on reducing hatchery impacts on natural populations.
- Provide recommendations to managers and policymakers regarding salmon and hatchery management and research studies using sound science.
- Communicate findings orally and in writing to managers and other units, including presentations at professional conferences.
- Provide updates of hatchery performance to management.
Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards:
Work is conducted primarily through telework (remote), with a minimum of one day per week in the office. Fieldwork (approximately 5%) may be required to collect scientific data, primarily at agency hatcheries. Fieldwork may involve adverse weather and challenging outdoor conditions, including deep snow, slippery rocks, steep banks, and sticky mud. Travel to and from field sites may be required. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule:
Work hours may vary but must be available during core hours of 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, primarily Monday through Friday. The position may require working outside a standard work week or scheduled work hours to accommodate fieldwork, meetings, and site visits throughout the year. A flexible work schedule may be considered with supervisory approval.
Travel Requirements:
Local and regional travel may be required to meet with regional staff, attend committee meetings, evaluate properties, conduct general business, and attend or provide training.
Tools and Equipment:
Standard office furniture and equipment, including a desk, filing cabinet, computer, printer, telephone, copier, as well as a motor vehicle. Rain Gear, chest waders, a personal floatation device (PFD), biological sampling tools, and other appropriate safety equipment.
Customer Interactions:
Frequent interaction with clients, including individuals who may be angry, distraught, or frustrated. Frequent interaction with external partners, including state and federal agencies and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:
- Two (2) years of experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.
Option 2:
- A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or a closely related field, including 12 semester or 18 quarter hours of specific coursework in fisheries, ichthyology, limnology, biology, or closely related fields.
AND
- Three (3) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
In addition to meeting one of the options listed above, the following are also required and may be gained concurrently:
- Knowledge of fish hatchery operations.
- General knowledge of salmon culture and life history.
- Ability to use general computer programs, including Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Teams, as well as data management and analysis programs, such as Excel.
Please Note:
- A Master’s Degree in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
- A Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience.
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:
Experience:
- Experience using the Regional Mark Information System (RMIS) and working with coded wire tags (CWT).
- Experience using models to assess hatchery-wild interactions, such as the All “H” Analyzer (AHA), Demographic Geneflow Model (DGM), Chinook Assessment Model (CAM), or other relevant models.
- Experience using statistical programs, including R.
- Demonstrated experience in technical writing and oral presentations.
Knowledge of:
- Washington State fish hatchery systems.
- Hatchery reform.
- The federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) process.
- Fisheries research on salmonids.
- Fisheries co-management under United States v. Washington.
- Pacific Northwest salmonids, including species life history, population dynamics, habitats, and fish identification.
- The theory of domestication selection and its impacts to both natural and artificial salmonid production.
- The scientific method and experience with experimental design.
Certifications:
- American Fisheries Society (AFS) Certified Fisheries Professional.
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- WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife 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 & Wildlife Professionals.
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 #2026-08584.
Know someone who would like to volunteer? WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
See all 4,220+ 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.