Summer Student (Fisheries Technician)

About Us

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 Fraser’s Mills 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
• complete various finfish husbandry practices
• 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.


We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks. 

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 Fraser’s Mills Fish Hatchery (Antigonish County)  

Please note, that this is a Summer Student position with an anticipated start date of May 5, 2025, and an end date of August 22, 2025.