Become an Animal Caretaker with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Are you looking for a career that connects you with nature? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is currently hiring an Animal Caretaker at the Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery in Underwood, Washington. This role is perfect for those who are physically active, detail-oriented, and passionate about conserving our nation’s aquatic resources.

Job Responsibilities

As an Animal Caretaker, you are the backbone of the hatchery production cycle. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Fish Care: Managing every stage of development, from spawning and egg incubation to fry care and adult fish rearing.
Observation: Monitoring fish behavior closely to identify signs of illness or stress, and managing feeding schedules.
Facility Maintenance: Maintaining hatchery buildings, grounds, and fleet equipment.
Record Keeping: Tracking critical biological data such as fish size, weight, and mortality rates.
Emergency Response: Responding to alarms on evenings and weekends to ensure the survival of sensitive specimens.

Comparison: Standard Office Work vs. Hatchery Caretaking

Feature	Office Work	Hatchery Caretaking
Environment	Climate-controlled office	Outdoor and quasi-industrial
Physical Activity	Sedentary	High (lifting, walking, bending)
Primary Focus	Data and communication	Biological care and facility upkeep
Schedule	Fixed business hours	Includes shifts, weekends, and emergencies

Requirements

To be considered for this competitive role, you must:

Be a U.S. Citizen.
Live within 75 miles of the duty station in Underwood, WA.
Hold a valid state driver's license.
Pass a federal background check.
Be prepared for physically demanding work, including frequent lifting of up to 50 lbs (occasionally up to 100 lbs).

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage, reflecting the specialized physical nature of the work. The salary range is $27.25 to $31.80 per hour.

Benefits

Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that includes:

Comprehensive health and life insurance.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
A uniform allowance for required work attire.
Structured leave programs to support work-life balance.

How to Apply

Prepare: Draft a clear, concise two-page resume.
Verify: Gather proof of your local residence.
Submit: Complete your application via USAJOBS before the November 9, 2026, deadline.

Working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the environment. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a hands-on career, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Ful - Animal Caretaker Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in wildlife conservation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, where your daily work directly supports the health and future of our nation's fish populations.

Ful - Animal Caretaker Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated and hands-on Animal Caretaker to join the team at the Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery in Underwood, Washington. This role is essential to the hatchery's production cycle, involving the day-to-day care of fish from the egg stage through to rearing and release. If you enjoy physically active, outdoor-oriented work and have a passion for natural resource management, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to critical environmental stewardship.

Requirements for Ful - Animal Caretaker

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must reside within a 75-mile radius of the duty station (Underwood, WA).
Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
Males born after 12-31-1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
Must pass a background investigation and E-Verify check.
Ability to perform heavy physical labor, including lifting up to 100 pounds.
Must be available for shift work, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Must respond to facility alarms within 15 minutes.

Preferred Qualifications for Ful - Animal Caretaker

Proven ability to monitor fish behavior and health indicators.
Experience in hatchery production, including spawning, feeding, and record-keeping.
Proficiency in operating small power equipment and light-duty forklifts (under 10,000 lbs).
Previous experience in general facility or grounds maintenance.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health and life insurance options.
✓Comprehensive retirement planning, including FERS.
✓Uniform allowance provided.
✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
✓Supportive work environment dedicated to environmental conservation.

💡 How to Apply Ful - Animal Caretaker Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Ful - Animal Caretaker Job

Review all eligibility requirements, specifically residency constraints.
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting relevant experience.
Gather proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, lease) to confirm your 75-mile proximity.
Submit your complete application package via USAJOBS by the closing date.
Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two single-sided pages; longer resumes will not be considered.
Use a minimum 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins to ensure readability.
Clearly document your volunteer experience, as it counts toward your qualification.
Ensure your proof of residency is distinct from your resume and matches the required criteria.
Do not include personal photographs in any part of your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the residency requirement for this position?

Applicants must maintain a permanent and exclusive residence within 75 miles of the Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery in Underwood, Washington.

Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?

No. The application instructions explicitly state that resumes exceeding two single-sided pages will not be reviewed.

Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?

No, this is an on-site, hands-on role requiring physical presence at the hatchery.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service serve a vital mission: to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. Working at a national fish hatchery is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural wonders of our ecosystem. You will be part of a team dedicated to excellence in resource management and scientific stewardship.