Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association (CIAA) has an opening for an on-site Hatchery Manager at Tutka Bay Lagoon Hatchery, located remotely in Tutka Bay Lagoon, near Homer, Alaska. This hatchery is currently permitted to produce up to 125 million pink salmon eggs and also assists with the Trail Lakes Hatchery Lower Cook Inlet sockeye salmon program.

Job description:   

This is a regular, full-time, exempt position. Under the supervision of the Hatchery Operations Manager, the Hatchery Manager is responsible for the operation and maintenance of Tutka Bay Lagoon in a safe, professional, and cost effective manner. This position performs a variety of responsibilities including, but not limited to:

• Oversees all fish culture activities to ensure best practices are utilized.
• Directs and assists in brood stock collection and spawning, egg incubation, fry rearing, marking and release.
• Ensures that records of hatchery performance, maintenance, and water quality measurements are maintained consistently with program requirements.
• Responsible for the monthly APDES water sampling, to ensure water quality standards.
• Ensures all maintenance activities are conducted in a manner to provide for facility and equipment readiness.
• Conducts safety inspections, maintains a safe working environment, and provides safety training and orientation.
• Supervises Assistant Hatchery Manager.
• Assists with the development of hatchery Annual Management Plan and annual hatchery and project reports.
• Escorts visitors on hatchery tours.

This position is expected to live on-site in CIAA-provided housing; will work variable hours; and be responsible for rounds and on-call status on a rotation. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of applied fishery biology.
• Working knowledge of skills relevant to hatchery or field operation such as plumbing, vehicle maintenance, and basic construction techniques.
• Demonstrated management and organizational skills, with the ability to effectively supervise staff, prioritize multiple responsibilities, and ensure efficient hatchery operations. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate in a concise, effective manner.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Suite applications including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Must be able to operate fishery and water quality sampling gear.
• Must be able to work in inclement weather, operate fishery, and water quality sampling gear.
• Strong outdoor skills and the ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs. and to work in wet, cold, hot, and generally inclement conditions for extended periods.
• A valid Alaska driver’s license or the ability to obtain one soon after employment.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications.

Preferred Qualifications:

The following experience or skills would strengthen an application.

• An applied understanding of Alaska salmon culture techniques typically gained by at least three years of Fish Culturist, Assistant Hatchery Manager, or Fisheries Biologist experience that includes direct supervision and training of staff such as Fish Culturists and Fisheries Technicians.
• Knowledge of Alaska fish culture practices, environmental compliance guidelines, and reporting requirements.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in fisheries science or a related field, such as fisheries management, ecology, or biology.

Other combinations of training and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for relevancy. If you believe you meet the qualifications above, and you are looking for a fun, challenging, and rewarding job, then CIAA encourages you to apply. CIAA is an equal opportunity employer.

Compensation:

Salary range $63,923 to $83,487 per year, DOE. The benefit package includes health insurance (employee portion is a 5% co-pay of the monthly premium), Health Savings Account with employer contribution, employee 401(k) retirement plan, quarterly weekend benefit, vacation and medical leave. Furnished on-site housing is provided along with heating fuel, electricity, and internet services.