Hatchery Volunteer

Green Lake National Fish Hatchery (NFH) in Ellsworth, Maine is a conservation hatchery focused on the production of Atlantic salmon for restoration programs in Gulf of Maine rivers. Green Lake NFH seeks two volunteers to assist with general duties of fish rearing and facility maintenance. In turn, we aim to provide a positive experience for volunteers as they engage in conservation work for one of the country's most iconic fish species, Atlantic salmon. Typical volunteer activities include daily fish feeding and care, cleaning rearing units, assisting with data collection, grounds and trail maintenance, caring for the pollinator garden, and public outreach. Green Lake NFH is open to the public year-round and volunteers will have the opportunity to interact with visitors by giving tours of the facility or providing other outreach services.  

Green Lake NFH is comprised of several buildings for water treatment, fish rearing, offices, and public use areas on over 129 acres. Ellsworth is a small city with plenty of small family-owned shops and restaurants, as well as larger retailers and a microbrewery. Ellsworth is known as the crossroads of Downeast Maine and is 25 miles from Acadia National Park and 30 miles from the city of Bangor. Acadia National Park and Downeast Maine offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts from hiking and biking to viewing wildlife such as moose, bear, whales, and seabirds. 

We are asking for a 24 hours/week commitment from volunteers. Work days and season length can be somewhat flexible but our needs are from early May through September. An RV pad is provided for volunteers with 50 amp electrical service, sewer, water hookups, and fiber Wi-Fi. The RV pad is nestled away in a private rural setting and provides plenty of peace and solitude. The hatchery office has a washer and dryer for volunteer use. The hatchery office also has high speed wireless internet available for volunteers and we encourage volunteers to bring their computer for personal use. 

Applications should be submitted through the "Volunteer.gov" platform. After applications are received, we will review them and reach out to candidates for a phone interview. We are only recruiting for the 2026 season at this time and won't be considering applicants for future summers.