TMD - Natural Resources Specialist III (Wildlife Biologist)
Job Description
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE COMPLETED ONLINE THROUGH CAPPS TAM/CG AT:
[click to reveal website link]
APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS:
Applicants may submit applications through Work In Texas (WIT), however, applicants must complete the supplemental questions in CAPPS TAM/CG to be considered for the position. In order to complete the supplemental questions, please register and/or login to CAPPS TAM/CG and access your profile. Go to CAPPS Recruit TAM/CG Sign In (Link: [click to reveal website link] )
Your job application must be complete and thorough including responding to all the supplemental questions. Your application must contain complete job histories, which includes job titles, dates of employment, name of employer and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be rejected because it is incomplete. Resumes do not take the place of this required information.
NOTES TO THE APPLICANT:
TMD State Employees support the Texas Military Department by delivering critical services that enable the agency to meet its strategic goals. Your work will contribute to the support we offer our Texas National Guard members, thereby multiplying their capability to serve at home and abroad as missions dictate. The Texas Military Department provides a benefits package that includes, but is not limited to:
- Health insurance benefits (employee premiums are covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)
- Optional Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance at competitive rates
- Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and State and Federal holidays
- Defined benefit retirement structure known as a cash balance benefit, with a state match equal to 150% of the account balance at retirement and guaranteed earnings of at least 4% annually
- Additional voluntary retirement savings programs (Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 programs)
- Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
- Potential for modified work schedules including flex, compressed, or telework (position dependent)
- Free access to Camp Mabry Museum and historical structures
- Robust free training access through Texas Military Department's WebBased Learning Program
- Expansive Employee Assistance Program and complimentary counseling services
- Employee Wellness and Physical Fitness Programs
Military membership is not required for this position.
ABOUT US:
Our Agency : The Texas Military Department (TMD) is commanded by The Adjutant General of Texas, the state's senior military official appointed by the governor, and is comprised of the Texas Military Department (State & Federal Civilian Employees), the Texas Army National Guard (TXARNG) , the Texas Air National Guard (TXANG) and the Texas State Guard (TXSG) .
Our Vision: America's premier state military organization comprised of professional missionready forces, fully engaged with our communities, and relevant through the 21st century.
Our Mission: Provide the Governor and the President with ready forces in support of state and federal authorities at home and abroad.
BRIEF POSITION SUMMARY
Performs highly complex (seniorlevel) natural resources work for a military conservation program. Work includes managing Endangered Species Act (ESA) species, native wildlife, invasive animal species, and wildlife habitat activities. Plans, designs, and manage wildlife programs, including monitoring, management, and research. Leads specific habitat management planning and implementation on military training sites. Works closely with personnel, internal working groups, and with other agencies to foster partnerships and coordinate conservation management. Responsibilities include conducting and contracting natural resources surveys, investigative research, studies, and inspections; developing plans for aspects of natural resources management; and analyzing and evaluating results to assess their impact on natural resources. Reports to the Natural Resources Manager and work under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
WORK HOURS: Monday Friday, 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supports conservation strategies that align with TMD's infrastructure protection goals, including erosion control, vegetation management, and habitat preservation.
- Monitors and mitigates environmental risks such as invasive species, water contamination, or land degradation that could compromise secure infrastructure zones.
- Collaborates with engineering, environmental, and security teams to integrate natural resource management into infrastructure resilience planning.
- Maintains documentation of natural resource activities, compliance efforts, and protective measures in accordance with TMD policy and applicable regulations.
- Supports emergency response and recovery efforts related to natural resource hazards affecting secure infrastructure.
- Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws, including NEPA, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act, as they relate to infrastructure protection.
- Assists with implementing projects (inhouse and contracted) for wildlife management; invasive animals and endangered species management; and game management hunting programs with an emphasis on avian species (monitoring, conservation and management).
- Prepares, reviews and edits technical papers, permits, publications and reports. Performs research and literature reviews in support of Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMPs).
- Conducts inspections, surveys, and studies to evaluate impacts on natural resources and support land management for ecological sustainability and military training needs; maintains relevant databases, prepares or reviews technical reports and recommendations based on findings, and conducts followup inspections as required.
- Manages the execution of assigned natural resources programs to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws and regulations, including Endangered Species Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
- Actively participates in external agency coordination including Section 7 consultation , interagency partnerships, multiagency groups, state and federal agencies , and universities.
- Conducts and participates in public meetings and state and national forums regarding assigned program areas, regulatory issues, conservation initiatives, and wildlife/habitat management.
- Provides technical assistance, specifications and project coordination on natural resource regulations, wildlife conservation and management, threatened and endangered species, and invasive animal management, as well as other natural resources projects.
- Assist s with prescribed burns, brush control, revegetation and monitoring and coordinates with Integrated Training Area Management (ITAM) program and staff as appropriate.
- Performs technical data collection, research, analysis, evaluations, inspections, and surveys to inform management and determine impacts on natural resources.
- Utilizes a Geographic Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning Device (GPS) technologies to prepare for and conduct fieldwork, analyze data, and present findings. Validates technical data and assists in the development and use of databases and software.
- Assists in formulating natural resources plans, plans for statewide and facility programs and the development of new natural resources programs as it relates to the INRMPs.
- Attends natural resources and land management meetings and assists with natural resources and land management planning and program implementation.
- Assists with development of habitat management and restoration plans in support of INRMPs to facilitate sound land management for sustainability of both military training and natural resources.
- Leads project planning, scoping, and execution of assigned natural resources programs and contracted projects in accordance with approved budgets, including developing scopes of work and assists with reviewing grant proposals to improve training site conditions and resource protection.
- Prepares educational materials, training, and operational manuals used in implementing the Natural Resources program. Will present material and conduct training as required.
- Researches and reviews natural resources documentation, as well as documentation related to other land management and landuse activities.
- Performs related work as assigned.
- Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with agency state employee policies & procedures handbook.
- May be required to perform duty in support of national emergencies, disasters, and other missions, to include on holidays and weekends.
MINIMIUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION:
- Graduation from an accredited fouryear college or university with major course work in wildlife biology/management or a related natural sciences field is preferred.
EXPERIENCE:
- Four (4) years' experience in environmental quality, natural resources botany, or agronomy work. (Substitution Allowed)
- Experience in Microsoft Office products to include Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Outlook is required.
- Avian survey and management experience is required .
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
- Endangered Species Act (E SA) and threatened and endangered species management is preferred.
- Experience with GIS and GPS is preferred.
- Experience with multiple taxonomies is preferred.
SUBSTITUTION:
- A related advanced degree may substitute for required experience on a yearperyear basis by up to four years.
REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE:
- Valid driver's license is required. If not currently a Texas resident, must obtain a Texas Driver's License within 30 days after entering Texas as a new resident. A satisfactory driving record is required for operating state or personal vehicles to conduct agency business.
- Must obtain training to for National Wildland Fire Coordination Group (NWCG) Wildland Firefighter II certification within 90 days and assist with prescribed fire operations as needed.
- Must obtain and maintain a Texas State Pesticide Applicator's License for use of herbicides and pesticides within 90 days of hire.
- Professional certification(s) are required to be maintained in active status. All associated Continuing Education (CE) requirements (e.g.: courses, licenses, trainings, memberships, exercises, etc.) essential to maintaining professional certification must be completed within the appropriate timeframe necessary to maintain active professional certification status.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Background Investigation . Selected candidate must be able to obtain a CAC and/or pass a federal security background investigation. The process includes a National Agency Check and Inquiry (NACI) and fingerprinting. New employees must complete and sign the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Form SF85. Completed forms are submitted to the OPM for the background investigations.
- Eligibility to Work in the U.S. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires all new employees to present proof of eligibility to work in the United States within three (3) days of being hired. The Texas Military Department participates in EVerify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I9 to confirm work authorization. All offers of employment are contingent upon the candidate having and maintaining legal authorization to work in the United States. Failure to present such authorization within the time specified by the U.S. Department of Labor will result in the offer being rescinded.
- Sponsorship . Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
- Upon hire with the State of Texas, males between the ages of 18 through 25 must provide proof of registration or exemption with the Selective Service. For further information, visit the Selective Service website at [click to reveal website link]
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
- applicable local, state, and federal ordinances and laws (Endangered Species Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Sikes Act, National Environmental Policy Act);
- biological analysis techniques and procedures including statistics;
- invasive species identification and management;
- avian management principles, ecology, taxonomy, land management, and adaptive management; and
- military culture and structure.
Skill in:
- operating GIS and GPS software, spatial analysis, and analytical programs;
- operating computers, including common software (i.e., Microsoft products);
- communicating effectively both orally and in writing;
- assess ing impacts of management and development actions and recommending alternative solutions if necessary;
- coordinat ing implementation of existing plans and identifying needed improvements;
- successfully conducting wildlife monitoring and research projects, as well as habitat management;
- identifying and understanding the ecology of native, exotic wildlife and their habitats; and
- utilizing brush clearing equipment.
Ability to:
- maintain the security and integrity of the Texas Military Department infrastructure;
- conduct inspections, surveys, investigative research, and studies;
- conduct field work in difficult conditions;
- analyze environmental and natural resource impacts;
- prepare complex and concise reports within the required timeline;
- interpret policies, procedures, and regulations as they relate to INRMPs;
- carry field equipment and gear for long distances in field conditions;
- multitask and collaborate effectively in a team environment, establishing strong working relationships with supervisors, coworkers, and a diverse group of stakeholders, including military personnel and external agencies; and
- work in a military environment.
PHYSICAL/WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed both inside and outside. When inside (50%) incumbent is exposed to normal office conditions. When outside, incumbent may work in seasonally inclement weather and intense situations including prescribed fire. Duties performed outside may involve walking long distances and/or through rough terrain and exposure to wildlife and other natural hazards (e.g., weather extremes, insects, fire). Fieldwork may also require incumbent to move 50 lbs. of field gear over long distances. Incumbent is expected to travel to and from assigned work sites throughout Texas to include overnight stays up to 50% of the time. Work is performed at active military training facilities.
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE
If you qualify for a Military Employment Preference, it is mandatory that you provide the required documentation at the time of applying. Documentation must be provided before a Military Employment Preference can be granted.
Currently Serving U.S. Armed Forces or Texas National Guard Statement of service memo
Veteran DD Form 214 (or Equivalent)
Disabled Veteran VA Civil Service Preference Letter
Spouse of a member of the United States Armed Forces or Texas National Guard serving on activeduty Marriage certificate and verification of duty status (activeduty orders, PCS orders, statement of service)
Spouse of a veteran if the spouse is the primary source of income for the household and the veteran has a total disability rating based either on having a serviceconnected disability with a disability rating of at least 70 percent or on individual unemployability Marriage certificate, VA Civil Service Preference Letter indicating disability rating, and documentary proof of income
Surviving Spouse of a Veteran who has not remarried Marriage certificate and DD Form 1300
Orphan of a Veteran who was killed during active duty Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300
VETERANS:
Use your military skills to qualify for this position or other jobs. Go to [click to reveal website link] to translate your military work experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications, and skill sets.
Veterans, Reservist or Guardsmen with an MOS or additional duties that fall in the following fields or other related fields pertaining to the minimum experience requirements may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are highly encouraged to apply:
United States Army: 92W Water Treatment Specialist
United States Navy: 180X RL Special Duty Officer (Oceanography)
United States Coast Guard: MST Marine Science Technician
United States Marine Corps: 8831 Environmental Engineering Management Officer
United States Air Force: 9S100 Scientific Applications Specialist
Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at: hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_NaturalResources.pdf
Contact TMD's Veteran's Liaison, Paul Love if you have questions at (512)7823836 or [click to reveal email address]
The Texas Military Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, genetic information, or status as an individual with a disability or protected veteran status in employment or in the provision of services.