Justin Hurst WMA Seasonal Fish and Wildlife Technician

Apply through the Texas Centralized Accounting and Payroll/Personnel System (CAPPS).
Link to CAPPS posting: 
https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/802/jobdetail.ftl?job=00055510&tz=GMT-05%3A00&tzname=America%2FChicago

HIRING CONTACT: David Butler, (979) 323-9669, Email: david.butler@tpwd.texas.gov

PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Justin Hurst Wildlife Management Area- 6233 Hwy 36, Jones Creek, TX 77541
 
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Under the immediate supervision of the Central Coast Wetland Ecosystem Project Leader, this position performs routine (journey-level) fish and wildlife conservation work. Responsible for assisting with habitat management, infrastructure maintenance, equipment maintenance, grounds keeping, public use, and research at the Central Coast Wetland Ecosystem Project which includes Justin Hurst, Nannie M. Stringfellow, D. R. Wintermann and Mad Island Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). Work involves the collection of biological data and assisting with wildlife research projects as assigned. Main emphasis will be on the management of wildlife habitat and maintaining and repairing infrastructure/complex equipment needed for research, habitat management or maintenance activities. Assists with public hunting and other public use programs on assigned area where applicable. Provides wildlife management information to hunters, land managers, other user groups and the general public. Works under moderate supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations, and procedures.

NOTE: Bunkhouse lodging will be available.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from high school or GED
Experience:

• FWT IA – no previous season experience with TPWD required.
• FWT IB – one season of experience as a TPWD Wildlife Division seasonal employee.
• FWT IC – two seasons of experience as a TPWD Wildlife Division seasonal employee.

Licensure:       
Must possess a valid state driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:     
Graduated with or in pursuit of a degree from an accredited college or university in Wildlife Science, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Ecology, Range and Wildlife Management, or closely related field in Natural Resources Management including coursework in Wildlife/Habitat Conservation, Wildlife/Natural Resources Management, Wildlife Biology, and/or Research Methods. Transcripts must be included with application to meet this preferred qualification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of wildlife, range, farming, and livestock practices.
• Knowledge of terrestrial and aquatic herbicides and their application.
• Skill in using MS Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Skill in operating common farming and ranching machinery and heavy equipment to include skid steers, farm tractors, shredders, discs, backhoes, and chainsaws.
• Skill in operating hand and power tools and other mechanical equipment.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to perform grounds maintenance activities such as mowing and weed eating.
• Ability to plan, coordinate, and organize assigned work activities.
• Ability to observe and record biological data.
• Ability to meet and deal effectively with the public, landowners, and co-workers.
• Ability to maintain accurate records, comply with purchasing documentation, and prepare written correspondence.
• Ability to assist with management, research and conducting public hunts for extended periods of time.
• Ability to perform manual labor including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to operate, repair, and maintain specialized equipment, such as airboats, Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs), All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), farm equipment, vehicles, mowers, trailers and small engines.
• Ability to perform basic welding, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, fencing, mechanical, and road maintenance tasks.
• Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and mechanical equipment.
• Ability to operate a GPS and GIS (ArcMap).
• Ability to work as a member of a team.
• Ability to work independently with little or no supervision.
• Ability to conduct activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Required to work hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with days off other than Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
• Required to adjust to changing schedules that include flexible hours with night and weekend hours.
• Required to work overtime as necessary.
• Temporary, 6-month seasonal position with the possibility for extension.
• Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
• Required to perform manual labor including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
• Required to operate heavy equipment and farm machinery.
• May be required to perform work in wet unstable soils and muddy conditions.
• May be required to work in areas with heavy extreme insect infestation.
• Required to work in remote field locations.
• May be required to operate a state vehicle.
• Bunkhouse lodging is available.
• Required travel 25% with possible overnight stays.
• Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
• Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.