TPWD - Natural Resources Specialist II - III (Assessment and Restoration Biologist

Job  Location Austin Number of Openings State Job Code(s) 2683, 2684 Close Date 08/07/2026

Company Texas Parks and Wildlife Dep t Full/Part Time Full-Time Regular/Temporary Regular Salary Admin Plan(s) Salary Admin Grade(s) 18, 20 Salary Range $5350.87 - 5824.14 per Month

To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Angela Schrift, , Email: angela.schriftas.gov

TPWD Headquarter, 4200 Smith School Rd, Austin, TX 78744

Under the direction of the Program Leader, this position performs natural resources work that includes working as a member of the Department's Natural Resources Damage Assessment Team, in cooperation with other state and federal natural resource trustee agencies. The NRS works as a principal scientist in natural resource damage investigations to evaluate potential injuries caused by oil spills and the release of hazardous substances, to pursue compensation for those injuries.

As part of the Natural Resource Damage Assessment process, assists in the development and implementation of injury assessment studies for natural resources. The NRS assists in the development of damage assessment and restoration plans to quantify injuries and propose restoration alternatives to the public. Reviews ecological risk assessments, evaluating the analysis of the impacts of chemicals and other contaminants to natural resources, and assembling recommendations to minimize impacts to natural resources.

Assists in the development and oversight of remediation plans. Plans and manages the implementation of habitat restoration and conservation projects supported through damage recoveries and settlements, including task and budget tracking. Performs additional duties as assigned and complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.

NOTE (1):
This position will assist in performing Natural Resource Damage Assessments: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

NOTE (2):
Please submit a writing sample that demonstrates your writing abilities (e.g., thesis, publication, professional letter or report), where you were the primary/lead author.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree or higher in Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, Fisheries, Zoology, Ecology, Natural Science, Environmental Science, Ecotoxicology, Environmental Toxicology, or closely related field.

NRS II
:
Two years of relevant experience.

NRS III
:
Six years of relevant experience.

Must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a valid class "C" Texas driver's license.

NOTE:

Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, Fisheries, Zoology, Ecology, Natural Science, Environmental Science, Ecotoxicology, Environmental Toxicology, or closely related field may substitute for one year of the required experience.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Ph.D. in Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, Fisheries, Zoology, Ecology, Natural Science, Environmental Science, Ecotoxicology, Environmental Toxicology, or closely related field may substitute for two years of the required experience.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a thesis based Master's degree or higher in Aquatic Biology, Wildlife Biology, Fisheries, Zoology, Ecology, Natural Science, Environmental Science, Ecotoxicology, Environmental Toxicology, or closely related field.

Six years of relevant experience.

Experience in project management.

Knowledge of ecological, toxicological, and/or pollution assessment principles and techniques.

Knowledge of field methods for assessing environmental impacts.

Knowledge of the effects of water pollution and environmental contaminants on fish, benthics, wildlife, and their habitat.

Knowledge of Texas and U.S. laws, regulations, and policies regarding natural resource damage assessments (NRDA).

Knowledge of ecological functions in Texas.

Skill in using MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Skill in effective verbal and written communication.

Skill in the operation of a variety of scientific and analytical equipment, including laboratory equipment, field sampling gear, and global positioning system (GPS) equipment.

Skill in coordinating and communicating with department personnel, other governmental agencies, public, universities, non-profits, private sector partners and contractors.

Skill in project management.

Skill in bringing individuals and groups together to accomplish common goals.

Skill in designing and conducting water quality,…