Individual Placement - Fish Hatchery Operations

Position Summary 

The goal of this position is to be engaged in the support of conservation of multiple fish species through hatchery operations at Valley City NFH. Fish hatchery operations may cover spawning, rearing and growing fish and other freshwater species in tanks, raceways and ponds. The incumbent will learn conservation tools to increase knowledge of restoration, mitigation and recreational hatchery programs while getting hands on experience of multiple species of fish. This position will learn all about hatchery work, conservation efforts and cool and warm water fish culture activities.

 

Location 

Valley City, ND

 

Schedule 

May 18, 2026 - August 28, 2026

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Assist hatchery personnel with the daily care and husbandry of fish in an aquaculture facility

• Support hatchery staff in the daily collection and recording of data on hatchery fish populations

• Assist with weekly maintenance of hatchery systems, including filters, pumps, alarms, valves, and effluent and influent supply lines

• Provide operational support by working weekends and responding to hatchery alarm notifications as needed

 

Marginal Duties 

• Assist hatchery personnel with maintaining clean, safe, and well-manicured hatchery grounds

• Support hatchery staff with facility maintenance tasks and building projects

• Assist in compiling and writing reports based on hatchery data collection activities

• Support hatchery operations by assisting with the hauling and transfer of fish

• Assist hatchery personnel with PIT tagging of fish when feasible

 

Required Qualifications 

 

• Current college student or graduate in fisheries science, biology, or a closely related field

• Valid driver’s license

• Access to a reliable personal vehicle

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds safely

 

 

 

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

 

Preferred Qualifications 

 

• Strong interest in fisheries management, hatchery operations, or aquaculture

• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team

• Willingness to work in challenging environmental conditions, including cold temperatures, uneven walking surfaces, wet conditions, and areas with deep water

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

Housing will be provided on site. The house includes a full kitchen, living room, an upstairs and main floor bathroom as well as three bedrooms. The participants are required to provide their own bedding and utensils. Fridge, Stove, Washer and Dryer will be provided.

 

Compensation  

Living Allowance: $600/week

Relocation Allowance: $1,100 (paid once)

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

 

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Drive Training

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.