Summer Student (Fisheries Technician)

Union Status: Exclusion - Non Union - NSPG

Closing Date: 14-Apr-25 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture has a legislated mandate to manage, promote, support and develop the fishing, aquaculture and seafood processing industries that contribute to the economic, environmental and social prosperity of Nova Scotia’s coastal and rural communities. As a department, we work to promote Nova Scotia as Canada’s premier fish and seafood province.

About Our Opportunity

Working under the Fish Hatchery Supervisor, as a Fisheries Student Assistant, you will be based at the Margaree Fish Hatchery. Within this position, you will have the opportunity to get out of the office and assist with technical work at the fish hatchery or in the field. You will provide support and care of fish, including the hatching, rearing and distribution of brook trout and Atlantic salmon to enhance the Province’s sport fishery.

Fish distribution will involve accompanying hatchery technicians delivering fish using vehicles (heavy-duty trucks with oxygenated/aerated water tanks) to sites across the Province. You may also have the opportunity to participate in fisheries sampling (electro-fishing, seining, live trapping), biological population assessments, habitat surveys, water quality surveys on various lakes and river systems.

Primary Accountabilities

Within a typical day, you can expect to:

• Feed fish
• Clean rearing units
• Provide general maintenance of equipment, fish hatchery buildings and grounds
• Enter data and write reports

Qualifications and Experience

You are currently enrolled in a related college/university program (science or environmental technical program) and returning to school in the fall of 2025 (or next applicable semester).

As the successful candidate you have knowledge of Nova Scotia’s freshwater fish species and their environment as well as a familiarity with sportfishing. A practical understanding of fish hatchery operations, procedures and techniques including fish husbandry and data collection would be an asset. You will also have strong written and verbal communication skills and be able to work independently as well as in a team environment.

Working Conditions

• This is a labour-intensive position which, at times, requires the ability to lift and carry heavy loads and work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• A valid Nova Scotia driver’s license is required, and access to a reliable vehicle for commuting is mandatory.
• The incumbent should be able to work extended hours and occasional weekends.
• Be comfortable working in and around water.

Additional Information

The successful candidate will work out of the Margaree Fish Hatchery (Inverness County). Please note, this is a Summer Student position with an anticipated start date of May 5, 2025 and end date of August 22, 2025.

Pay Grade: HOURLY

Salary Range: $15.73- $29.69 Hourly

Employment Equity Statement: Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify on your electronic application.

Current government employees may access this posting through the link below:

PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or are missing information.

Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for the interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All questions and concerns may be directed to Competitions@novascotia.ca.