Natural Resource Specialist

Division: Greenspace
Workdays & Hours: M-F, 6:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.* 
Location: 1801 Memorial Dr. Houston, Texas 77007*           
*Subject to change
 
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to building a sustainable community and enhance the quality of urban life by providing safe well-maintained parks and offering affordable programming for our community. To achieve this mission, HPARD is seeking a Natural Resources Specialist to join its Greenspace Operations team.  

The potential candidate will play a key role in the following duties:

• Implements habitat management work including prairie and riparian restoration.
• Performs data collection, research, and analysis related to natural resources, wildlife, and habitat restoration projects.
• Inspects natural areas for encroachment, dumping, and other violations.
• Assists with coordinating and overseeing volunteer planting events and workdays.
• Operates equipment within sensitive natural areas such as prairies and wetlands.
• Participates in training and evaluation of interns and seasonal employees.

WORKING CONDITIONS     
There are routine exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and air pollution. This is an outside job requiring work in natural areas with a range of habitats. The position may involve periodic exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises, and minor burns.MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS 
Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Field Biology, Wildlife Biology, Botany, Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Science, or a related field.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
One (1) year of experience in habitat restoration, land management, ecological research, or a related field is required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Must have a valid driver’s license and comply with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).

PREFERENCES

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6. **

GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will involve application review and/or interview.
 
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION   Yes 
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 18

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov. 
 
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-395.7108.
 
If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-395.7108. (TTY 7-1-1)
 
If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
 
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
 
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided. 
 
EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.