TAHC - Temporary Livestock Inspector - Ectoparasit

Position Location

Temporarily located in Pleasanton Region - Positions will be assigned to specific areas within the region. See TAHC Region Map and the Interactive Map of NWS Zones for more details.

General Description

Performs moderately complex inspections of ectoparasites including Cattle Fever Ticks, New World Screwworms (NWS), and other livestock pests and diseases. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for 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 other locations.
• Makes sure livestock are free of ectoparasites and reports any suspected infestations to veterinarians and management.
• Collects samples for testing from various livestock species and collaborates with state and federal agencies to implement control measures.
• Enforces quarantine and disease control measures, including managing livestock shipments.
• Provides education to livestock producers and the public about ectoparasites and the importance of early detection and reporting.
• Serves as a primary active role in emergency management activities and disease outbreak responses.
• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One year experience working as an agriculture or livestock inspector or USDA Animal Health Technician preferred.
• Knowledge of livestock markets, brucellosis, and other regulatory programs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various stakeholders.
• Skills in operating computers, GPS, and other equipment necessary for job duties.
• Effective communication and writing skills.
• Arm, hand, shoulder, and back strength and dexterity for handling and restraining livestock.
• Ability to lift and maneuver equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Physical Requirements

• Strength and dexterity 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.
• Able to lift 50 pounds overhead.

Other Requirements

• Cholinesterase testing may be required monthly.
• May require travel, irregular working hours, overtime, and occasional weekends.
• Must have a valid Texas drivers license and a safe driving record.
• Employment contingent upon passing a criminal background check and moving violation record.
• Must show proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. and present proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. using E-Verify.
• Must be fit tested with a respirator.
• May require rotating temporary duty assignments away from regular headquarters for up to two weeks at a time.