Wildlife Region 4 Seasonal CWD 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=00058015&tz=GMT-05%3A00&tzname=America%2FChicago

HIRING CONTACT: Megan Hahn, (737) 231-8746, Email: megan.hahn@tpwd.texas.gov
These positions will start during the month of September, contact the hiring supervisor with questions.
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: TPWD Wildlife Region IV. The positions will be physically based out of a TPWD office in one of the following counties:  Bexar, Gonzales, Hays, Washington, or Fayette counties but will travel throughout Region IV as needed.
The Department is working to provide housing opportunities for these positions, but that is not guaranteed.  An option to work <40 hours per week may be available in certain locations. Contact Hiring Supervisor for questions on specific location or housing.

GENERAL description:
Under the direction of the Regional Wildlife Health Specialist, this position performs routine (journey-level) fish and wildlife conservation work and is responsible for collecting tissue samples from white-tailed deer, mule deer, and other cervids to be tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD).  Prepares and submits samples to diagnostic laboratory.  Collects other data from harvested deer and other cervids as requested.  May compile reports received from diagnostic laboratory and prepare reports for agency use and dissemination to the public.  Within the counties of the assigned District, position may focus on sample collection from roadkill, taxidermists, processors, cooperating ranches, CWD check stations, and other locations as required.  Work location will be determined by district need, considering selected applicant’s work assignment preference.  May travel within the counties of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Wildlife District OR be assigned to a TPWD facility check point.  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. 

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
education:
Graduation from High School or GED.
experience:
Seasonal FWT I Tier A: No experience required.
Seasonal FWT I Tier B: One season as a CWD Technician.
Seasonal FWT I Tier C: Two seasons as a CWD Technician.
Licensure:       
Must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a class “C” Texas driver’s license.
NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:     
Graduation from an accredited college or university with or working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science.
Experience:

• Experience performing necropsies on deer.
• Experience working with hunters.
• Experience pulling/hauling trailers.
• Experience as a TPWD Wildlife seasonal.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of white-tailed deer, mule deer, and other cervids.
• Knowledge of chronic wasting disease.
• Knowledge of deer anatomy.
• Knowledge of deer-necropsy techniques.
• Skill in using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Skill in effective interaction with staff at all levels of the department and other state agencies and organizations.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts.
• Skill in providing customer service.
• Skill in meeting deadlines.
• Skill in making independent, sound, and timely decisions.
• Skill in identifying, researching, and compiling information.
• Skill in operating and maintaining equipment and specialized tools.
• Skill in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to work under extreme environmental conditions.
• Ability to identify cervid species.
• Ability to collect tissue samples from dead deer.
• Ability to observe and record biological data.
• Ability to meet and deal effectively with the hunters, landowners, co-workers, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare written correspondence.
• Ability to be an effective and productive team member.
• Ability to work independently with little or no supervision.
• Ability to observe and record biological data.
• Ability to maintain field equipment and facilities.
• Ability to learn methods employed in fish and wildlife management.
• Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Required to work 40 hours per week from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with days off other than Saturdays, Sunday, and holidays.
• Required to work overtime, as necessary.
• Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
• Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
• Work location to be determined within TPWD Wildlife Region 4.
• Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
• Required to travel up to 50% with possible overnight stays depending on assigned work location.
• Required to operate a state vehicle.
• Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.