Fisheries Technician

Location: Nak’azdli Whut’en, Fort St. James, BC

Number of Positions: 1

Employment Type: Fixed Term (6 months)

Wage: $21.42 - $27.38 based on experience 

About Us

Nak'azdli Whut'en is a proud Dakelh First Nation located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Our community is deeply rooted in Dakelh culture, language, and values, emphasizing a connection to the land and a commitment to the well-being of our people. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive services that reflect our culture and respect the unique perspectives and needs of our members. At Nak'azdli Whut'en, we strive to provide community-focused health and social services that uphold Indigenous values and address the distinct challenges facing our community. 

Job Summary

Nak’azdli Whut’en is seeking a dedicated Fisheries Technician to support seasonal fish egg collection and hatchery operations. This position involves remote fieldwork, in-water fish handling, and technical tasks related to salmon aquaculture. The role requires a strong work ethic, ability to perform physical labour, teamwork, and adaptability to changing weather and work conditions.  

Key Responsibilities:       

General Duties:

• Assist in hatchery operations including setup and clean-up of egg take sites.
• Participate in community outreach, school visits, and hatchery promotion.
• Complete and maintain daily logs and data sheets.
• Support hatchery management and maintenance duties.
• Be available for emergency callouts when necessary.
• Follow all health and safety protocols at all times.
• Perform yard and equipment maintenance. 
• Attend training sessions, workshops, and participate in field excursions.
• Carry out physical labour such as moving supplies and equipment. 

Technical Duties:

• Assist in broodstock capture and handling.
• Conduct egg takes, fertilization, and quality control (including pickling and hatch picking).
• Perform fish health assessments and health sampling.
• Conduct water chemistry monitoring (O₂ levels, pH, ammonia, etc.).
• Check and adjust feed rates and perform sample size counts.
• Maintain records and data management systems (including reporting to DFO).
• Monitor sperm motility and ensure quality control throughout the incubation period.

Qualifications:

• Minimum Grade 10 education.
• Previous experience in fisheries, hatchery work, or aquaculture preferred.
• Knowledge of hatchery protocols and fish handling techniques is an asset.
• Post-secondary education in biology, fisheries, or related field an asset.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Physically fit; able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform outdoor work in various conditions.
• Comfortably working in and around water, handling live fish.
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License is considered an asset.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily outdoors in variable and sometimes adverse weather conditions.
• May involve walking over rough terrain, standing for long periods, and manual labour.
• Interaction with live fish and water systems is a regular part of duties.
• Must be flexible with schedule including potential for evening and weekend shifts.

Hours of Work

Your hours of work will be variable shifts of 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, up to 35 hours per week, as assigned by the Fisheries Superintendent and are subject to change.  Shifts may include weekends and or evenings. You must consult with the Fisheries Superintendent on a weekly basis to know your exact working hours and shifts in advance.  Overtime is not permitted without prior authorization from the Fisheries Superintendent. 

Indigenous Commitment Statement

"Nak'azdli Whut'en is committed to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive work environment that reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of Indigenous peoples. We actively encourage and prioritize applicants from First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities. to apply. We recognize the importance of cultural knowledge and experience, and we honor and respect Indigenous ways of knowing and being."

 Application Instructions

Nak’azdli Whut’en offers the opportunity to lead with purpose and create meaningful change for our community. As the Fisheries Technician, you will have the chance to shape the future, empower a talented team, and build a legacy that reflects our values and aspirations.

Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.