TAHC - Temporary Livestock Inspector - Ectoparasit

Position Location

TEMPORARY POSITION
Position Location: Laredo Region - Each position will be assigned to a specific area in the region. Please see TAHC Region Map and the Interactive Map of NWS Zones for reference of the potential assignment of the position. Applicant must be willing to be located in the region and/or near one of the identified areas.

General Description

Performs moderately complex (journey-level) inspections of ectoparasites including Cattle Fever Ticks, New World Screwworms (NWS) and other livestock pests and diseases. Performs inspections at livestock markets, feedlots, slaughter plants, flea markets, farms and ranches, and at other places where livestock, exotics, and poultry are gathered. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. May require travel, irregular working hours, overtime, and occasional weekends.

Essential Duties

• Performs inspections for signs of ectoparasites at livestock markets, feedlots, slaughter plants, flea markets, farms and ranches, and at other locations where livestock, exotics, and poultry are gathered.
• Makes sure livestock are monitored and surveyed to identify ectoparasite infestations early to help prevent the spread.
• Reports any suspects of ectoparasite infestation to appropriate veterinarian staff and management.
• Collects samples for testing from cattle, swine, equine, exotics, sheep, goats and poultry.
• Collaborates with state and federal agencies to assist with control measures, including but not limited to release of sterile males to NWS populations.
• Enforces quarantines and other livestock disease control measures, including livestock shipment activities.
• Provides education to the livestock producers and the general public on ectoparasites and the importance of early detection and reporting. Performs periodic public education contacts with community media resources and organizations.
• Serves in a primary active role in emergency management activities and responses to disease outbreaks as assigned.
• Maintains accurate and detailed work activity records.
• Drives extensively on a daily basis, using a personal or agency vehicle. May travel outside of Laredo region. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from standard senior high school or GED (+)
• Experience working in agriculture or with livestock
• One (1) year experience working as an agriculture or livestock inspector or USDA Animal Health Technician (preferred)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with livestock producers, market owners/operators, local area emergency management coordinators, coworkers, and others involved in animal agriculture
• Keeps detailed written records
• Operates a laptop computer, hand-held data collection device, global positioning system (GPS), and other equipment necessary to perform job duties
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Legible handwriting
• Fulfills oral and written instructions
• Safely handles livestock
• Acquires knowledge of the laws and regulations governing livestock markets, brucellosis, and other regulatory programs and applies regulations to work activities
• Travel extensively (some overnight) and works occasional overtime as required

Physical Requirements

• Arm, hand, shoulder and back strength and dexterity to be able to handle and restrain livestock, including cattle, horses, swine, small ruminants, exotic forms of livestock, and poultry
• Able to lift and maneuver equipment such as chutes, portable pens, spraying equipment, trailers, and instruments weighing up to 50 pounds used for restraining and testing large animals
• Able to lift 50 pounds overhead

Other Requirements

• Cholinesterase testing may be required monthly
• Inspectors will be required to be fit tested with a respirator
• May require travel, irregular working hours, overtime, and occasional weekends
• Must have a valid Texas drivers license and safe driving record
• At time of hire, selected applicants must show proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. will be confirmed using E-Verify
• All males who are age 18 through 25 and required to register with the Selective Service must present proof of registration or exemption from registration upon hire

Important Information

The TAHC is an emergency response agency. This position plays a key role in the agency's emergency management activities. As a first responder, this position is subject to participate in rotating temporary duty assignments away from the regular designated headquarters for up to two weeks at a time. This duty may involve working in adverse conditions; may require irregular working hours and overtime; and may include duties.