TPWD - Natural Resources Specialist - II - III - IV; Assistant Fisheries Biologist

Job Overview

Position:
Natural Resources Specialist – Freshwater Fisheries (South Texas)

Location:

Inland Fisheries District Office, 23198 Park Rd. 25, Mathis, TX 78368 Hiring Contact:
Dusty McDonald, , dusty.mcdonaldas.gov

Manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas, providing hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

Generous paid time off, group insurance, retirement and pension options, training and staff development, longevity and merit pay, deferred compensation, flexible benefit plans, 401(k)/457 retirement plans, direct deposit, staggered work hours, Employee Assistance Program, Return‑to‑Work Program, and health insurance after a 60‑day waiting period. View benefits page.

This position will assist the district supervisor in managing freshwater fisheries of all designated public waters in a large area of south Texas, including important resources down to the Rio Grande valley. The role involves conducting surveys on freshwater impoundments and rivers, analyzing and interpreting data, implementing applied fisheries management activities, planning and conducting research, writing technical reports and scientific publications, organizing public outreach programs, and coordinating with controlling authorities and municipalities.

The specialist will also assist in directing a team of technicians, seasonal workers, interns, and volunteers, and will support administrative duties such as purchasing, activity reporting, and budget planning.

• Conduct fish and habitat surveys on impoundments and rivers.
• Analyze and interpret survey data to inform management decisions.
• Implement applied fisheries management activities.
• Plan and conduct research related to habitat and fisheries management.
• Write technical reports and scientific publications.
• Organize and conduct public outreach and education programs.
• Coordinate with controlling authorities and municipalities.
• Assist in directing a team of permanent technicians, seasonal workers, interns, and volunteers.
• Perform administrative functions including purchasing, activity reporting, and budget planning.
• Comply with all Agency, Division, and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Fisheries Science or a related Biological Science with major coursework in Fish Culture and Fisheries Management.
• Experience:
  • Natural Resources Specialist I – No experience required.
  • Natural Resources Specialist II – Two years of relevant experience.
  • Natural Resources Specialist III – Six years of relevant experience.
  • Natural Resources Specialist IV – Ten years of relevant experience.
• License: Class “C” Texas driver’s license within 30 days of employment; position contingent upon maintaining the license.

• Master’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife, Fisheries Science, Natural Science, or a closely related field may substitute for one year of required experience (NRS II‑IV).
• PhD in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife, Fisheries Science, Natural Science, or a closely related field may substitute for two years of required experience (NRS II‑IV).

• Master’s degree in Fisheries Science or Biological Science.

• NRS I – Knowledge of Texas flora and fauna, ecosystems, and applicable local, state, and federal ordinances and laws.
• NRS II – Plus knowledge of riparian ecology and natural resource management.
• NRS III – Plus knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and an understanding of how they affect fisheries management.

• Veterans may claim preference; required documentation includes DD‑214 (honorable discharge), Statement of Service, or other specified forms depending on relationship to veteran.
• See Military Employment Reference Page for details.