Hatchery Production Lead

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.

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

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.

Visit SmokeInChimneys.com to learn more about us!