TPWD - Seasonal Fish and Wildlife Technician I (Wi

About the role

This position runs through January 2027 and is located in Alpine, TX. It is a roving Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) technician position within TPWD Wildlife Field Operations/Region 1.

Responsibilities

• Collects tissue samples from white-tailed deer, mule deer, and other cervids to be tested for CWD.
• Prepares and submits samples to diagnostic laboratories.
• Collects other data from harvested deer and other cervids as requested.
• Compiles reports received from diagnostic laboratories and prepares reports for agency use and public dissemination.
• May focus on sample collection from roadkill, taxidermists, processors, cooperating ranches, CWD check stations, and other locations as required.
• Works within the counties of the assigned district, with work location determined by district need and applicant’s work assignment preference.
• Travels within the counties of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Wildlife District or be assigned to a TPWD facility check point.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 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.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Class 'C' Texas driver's license.
• Experience: Seasonal FWT I Tier A, Tier B, or Tier C.
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Biological Science, experience with necropsies, working with hunters, pulling/hauling trailers, and experience as a TPWD Wildlife seasonal.

Skills

• Knowledge of white-tailed deer, mule deer, and other cervids.
• Knowledge of chronic wasting disease.
• Knowledge of deer anatomy.
• Knowledge of deer necropsy techniques.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions.
• Ability to identify, research, and compile information.
• Ability to operate and maintain equipment and tools.
• 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 various stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare written correspondence.
• 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.

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, Sundays, 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 I.
• 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.