Individual Placement - Fisheries Technician at Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery

Student Conservation Association • Burnet, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Fisheries Technician will assist with channel catfish culture for Federal Tribal trust obligations and the culture of Central Texas freshwater mussels. Mussel work includes using in-viva and in-vitro methods, caring for and feeding juveniles, and assisting with research. The technician will also support Clear Creek Gambusia production, facility and grounds maintenance, public outreach, and other duties as assigned.

The position is based at Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery in Burnet, Texas, and is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. The schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, typically 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., subject to change at management’s discretion. The placement is scheduled from January 11, 2027, through July 9, 2027. On-site housing is provided, with the type of accommodation dependent on availability and management discretion.

Requirements

• Must be between 16 and 30 years old, inclusive, or a veteran age 35 or younger.
• Must be a United States citizen or national, or a lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, agree to obtain one, or be enrolled in an institution of higher education.
• Driver’s license required.
• Able to understand, follow, and communicate hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
• Able to wear required personal protective equipment, work cooperatively, manage outdoor and environmental exposure, and maintain personal nutrition and hydration.
• Able to independently manage known medical conditions and self-administer prescription medications as prescribed.
• Must be able to meet partner driving requirements if driving a motor vehicle for the SCA.

Nice To Haves

• Experience or coursework in a biological field.
• Driving a motor vehicle for the partner agency or organization is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Culture Central Texas freshwater mussels using in-viva and in-vitro methods; care for and feed juveniles; and assist with research efforts. These duties are performed under the direction of the Malacologist and make up 50% of the position.
• Spawn and collect eggs; care for eggs and sac fry; feed and care for juvenile through broodstock channel catfish; and assist with harvest and shipment. These duties are performed under the direction of the Lead Fish Biologist or Assistant Project Leader and make up 30% of the position.
• Assist with facility and grounds maintenance, production of the Federally endangered Clear Creek Gambusia, and on-station public outreach.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Follow safety policies and procedures, use required personal protective equipment, and cooperate with others to complete daily work.

Benefits

• On-site housing provided, subject to availability and management discretion; accommodations may be hatchery quarters, a park model, or an RV, with basic furnishings, cookware, linens, utilities, and Starlink internet.
• Living allowance of $675 per week, subject to applicable taxes.
• One-time relocation travel allowance of $1,100, subject to applicable taxes.
• Defensive driving training.
• Optional AmeriCorps eligibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED