Frequently Asked Questions (click here to expand all)

What type of experience are you looking for?

We do not require prior experience in the fishing industry. A good working background is necessary. We will do reference checks on up to five years of work history so make certain to include it on your application.

When is the best time to apply?

Now! We take applications all year long. To find updated information on our staffing needs, please call (206) 281-0333.

Do you hire women?

Yes! We have separate women’s living quarters at all of our locations. Icicle Seafoods is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Is there an age limit?

You have to be at least 18. Other than that, there are no age restrictions as long as you can process fish.

How long do seasons usually last?

We can never know how long a season will last because of the nature of the fishing industry. Most contracts are between three and five months. Contracts can include more than one season.

How much do I get paid?

Beginning processors start at Alaska state minimum wage which is $7.75 per hour. All hours worked in excess of 8 straight time hours in a day and 40 straight time hours in a week are paid at the overtime rate of one and one half times the regular, straight-time hourly rate of pay. Below is the pay rate scale.

How often do I get paid?

The payroll is processed every two weeks. You can have your check mailed to an address of your choice, mailed to your bank, direct deposit, or sent directly to you at your work location.

Am I paid for a percentage of the catch?

No. You are only paid for hours worked.

Can I choose which location I work at?

For first time employees, we will place you where we need you. Returning employees have priority for their preferred location before we fill it with new crew.

Do I have to buy my work gear?

Everything you need to do your job is provided for you, which includes work boots, work gloves, waterproof rain pants and jackets, earplugs, hairnets and beard nets.

What are my chances of a promotion?

Icicle prides itself on its policy to promote from within. If there is a job opening, we will post the job description at all of our locations and give processors first chance. Only when everyone who applies does not meet those qualifications will we hire outside of the company.

What will my work schedule be like?

Our locations have 24 hour production to ensure the freshest quality there is to offer. This means that your schedule can range from day to evening to overnight shifts. Your hours depend on the amount of fish that is received. You can expect to work anywhere from 0 to 18 hours a day, 7 days a week

Will my cell phone work in Alaska?

No. Cell phone networks are limited in Alaska.

Will I have internet on board?

No. Internet use is not available on board.

How many people to a room?

Although one of our vessels has a 16-person room, the average room holds 4 to 8 people. The amount of people on board range from 60 to 220.

Am I only covered for health insurance while I’m working?

No. Icicle realizes that there will be periods of unemployment and has designed the health insurance plan with that in mind. As soon as an employee is eligible for health insurance, he/she is qualified for the equivalent of three months.

When there is no work, am I required to pay for room and board?

No. While you are under contract, you will have practically no expenses! You do not have to pay Icicle for meals, rent, work gear, or laundry services.

Do I have to be a citizen?

No. You have to provide proof that you are legally authorized to work in the United States prior to your date of hire.

What is the food like?

The food is good! It is impossible to cater to everyone’s specific preference; however, we try to accommodate with many options in a buffet-style setting.

Do I have to buy my own ticket to and from Alaska?

No! Icicle Seafoods provides your transportation from Seattle to your work location and back as long as you complete your work agreement. If you quit, are discharged, or request a leave of absence, Icicle will get you to a place where there is food, hotel, medical facility, and transportation, but after that you are on your own.

What personal items should I bring?

We will give you a list of what to pack upon hire. You will need warm, comfortable work clothing that can be layered. If you are taking any prescribed medications, then you must bring enough to last the length of your contract. To cover periods of no work, some employees bring books or stereos. There is a baggage restriction, however; your personal belongings must fit within your assigned locker.

Where will the boat go?

It depends! You could be working around Dillingham, Unalakleet, Saint Paul, Dutch Harbor, Togiak, Naknek, or other locations in Western Alaska.

I have school that starts in the fall. Can I work only during the summer?

Yes. Icicle can accommodate most school schedules.

What is there to do on board? Am I allowed any time off the boat?

The common areas on board include the galley, a room with a TV, an assortment of movies, and an exercise room. Depending on a number of factors, shore leave may be granted by the vessel manager. If so, there would be a set curfew to return to the vessel.

Can I continue working after my contract has ended?

If there is more work available, we will take volunteers to extend their contract. If not, we will notify you before the next season starts, provided that you completed your contract and are eligible for rehire.

Can I get mail?

Yes! There will be an address that you can give friends and family. Mail is sporadic; we cannot guarantee that packages or letters will get to you in a certain amount of time.

Is there a doctor on board? What if I get sick?

Icicle Seafoods, Inc. values our employee’s health. Icicle ensures that every location has representatives on board at all times that are certified first-aid and CPR responders, in addition to the Safety Manager. If your condition requires a doctor, there are clinics available. However, due to the remote location of the processor, there can be delay in getting advanced medical attention.

Isn’t fishing dangerous?

We hire only fish processors, not for fishing vessels. The processing vessels do not go out into deep sea and spend most of the season anchored in a bay or tied to docks. Boats will come to drop off a catch from a fishing vessel for Icicle to process.