Hatchery Biologist

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR):

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education. DNR Fish & Wildlife enriches the quality of life for present and future generations by balancing the biological, ecological, recreational, and economic benefits of Indiana’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats.

This position functions as the Hatchery Biologist and is vital to the operation of Fawn River State Fish Hatchery. This hatchery has statewide fish production responsibilities and stocked fish from this hatchery increases fishing opportunities for diverse fish stocking needs. This position plays an essential role in the creation of recreational opportunities throughout Indiana with important revenue sources for the State and Division.

The incumbent is responsible for technical assistance to complete fish production involving wild brood stock spawning, captive brood stock spawning, all warmwater/coolwater/coldwater fish production, serves as a fish health coordinator and contact for statewide fish disease testing and quality assessment of stocked fish, prepare production reports and other technical data records for hatchery performance, assists with training, instructing and directing seasonal staff and must be capable of operating and managing the hatchery in the absence of a hatchery manager or assistant manager.

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $42,900.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience.

• Establishes pond production and tank culture schedules and feeding programs;
• Completes or reviews fish feed, fertilizer and chemical orders;
• Assists with the maintenance and repair of hatchery buildings and grounds as necessary;
• Monitors for water quality and fish disease problems;
• Participates in 24 hour on call monitoring of hatchery;
• Assists with related activities such as fish hatchery tours and other hatchery activities as necessary

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree within Fisheries, or closely-related aquatic science field from an accredited college or university,
• Must be able to obtain a Pesticide Applicator License,
• Must possess a valid Indiana driver's license,
• Organizational skills and ability to prioritize variable workloads and multiple projects,
• Ability to use computers, have working knowledge of word processors, spreadsheets and databases,
• Working knowledge of carpentry, electrical and plumbing techniques related to such systems
• Required to work with weights up to and above 50 pounds and work in adverse weather conditions,
• Required at times to work more than 7.5 hours per day, weekend shifts, etc.

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
• Wellness Rewards Program:
  Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
• Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
• Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to401(k) plan) with employer match
• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
  • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
  • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Group life insurance
• Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
• Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Free Parking for most positions
• Free Linked In Learning access

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at