We’re hiring!

Hatchery Production Lead Job Description

We are a revitalized 1930s trout hatchery located in New Castle, VA. We hatch, raise, smoke, and distribute trout to restaurants, co-ops, and stores across the state—and we’re seeking someone who shares our drive and commitment to excellence. This is a full-time position; please read the details below before applying.

Production Lead Key Responsibilities:

  • Gutting, rinsing, and preparing fish for processing

  • Managing a team on Monday to get orders processed

  • Assisting or leading small projects regarding hatchery maintenance

  • Smoking trout fillets for distribution

  • Feeding and taking care of trout

  • Cleaning shop + keeping up with inventory

  • Pulling and sorting fish in ponds (regardless of weather)

  • Performing general physical labor required for farm maintenance and production

  • Assisting with deliveries to local restaurants, co-ops, and other clients

  • Being a team player

  • Self-starter + solution-oriented

Salary: $50,000

Job Type: Full-time

Requirements:

  • Experience: 2 years of work experience on a production-oriented farm or a small/family business (something outside of corporate America) with strong references.

  • Personality: Type A personality, with a focus on detail, organization, and solutions.

  • Physical Fitness: Able-bodied and capable of meeting the demands of physically-intensive labor. Ability to lift, pull, push 75 lbs.

  • Must be dependable and self-motivated.

  • Must be able to pass a drug test.

  • Ability to work in a burning hot or freezing cold environment

  • Interest: Genuine interest in raising trout, helping run a small business, and collaborating with the restaurant industry.

  • Energy: Ready to bring energy and keep pace in a dynamic, fast-moving environment.

  • Time Commitment: Approximately 40 hours per week (this fluctuates with the season)- must have reliable transportation to and from work.

Why Work With Us?

At Smoke In Chimneys, we combine hands-on farm work with a mission to provide top-tier trout products to our community and the innovative culinary forefront. Joining us means being part of a team that values sustainable practices, hard work, and the opportunity to connect with both creation and the culinary world.

Know someone that might be a good fit? Share this page with them!