Wildlife Seasonal CWD Lab Technician

Job Overview

Under the direction of TPWD’s Wildlife Health Specialist and the Assistant Section Head of Serology at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, this entry-level laboratory position focuses on processing tissues harvested from cervid species (e.g., deer and elk) for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) diagnostic testing. The position is based at TVMDL in College Station, Texas, and requires moderate supervision with limited use of independent judgment.

Process tissues for CWD diagnostic testing.

Perform laboratory procedures under standard safety protocols.

Comply with all TPWD and TVMDL rules, regulations, and procedures.

Assist with additional duties as assigned.

Education:

High School diploma or GED.

Experience:

• Seasonal Lab Tech I Tier A – No experience required.
• Seasonal Lab Tech I Tier B – One season as a TPWD CWD seasonal field or lab technician.
• Seasonal Lab Tech I Tier C – Two seasons as a TPWD CWD seasonal field or lab technician.

Licensure:
Valid state driver’s license within 30 days of employment.

Education:

Accredited college/university, Bachelor’s degree or in progress in Biological Science.

Experience:

• Experience preparing diagnostic samples using sharp instruments.
• Prior TPWD Wildlife Division seasonal experience.

• Knowledge of chronic wasting disease.
• Knowledge of deer anatomy.
• Knowledge of deer necropsy techniques.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory safety procedures.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques.
• Skill in using MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Skill in operating and maintaining laboratory and research equipment.
• Skill in performing mathematical computations.
• Skill in using computers and applicable software.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Skill in effective interaction with staff at all levels and other state agencies.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships.
• Skill in providing customer service.
• Skill in meeting deadlines.
• Ability to collate data and organize work environment.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions.
• Ability to observe and record biological data.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare written correspondence.
• Ability to be an effective and productive team member.
• Ability to work independently with little or no supervision.
• Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.

• Required to work 40 hours per week, Monday‑Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Required to work overtime as necessary.
• Required to receive pre‑exposure rabies vaccination (cost covered by TPWD).
• Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules and safety procedures.
• Non‑smoking environment in state buildings and vehicles.