TPWD - Natural Resources Specialist III; State Parks Habitat and Fuels Specialist

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.

Under the supervision of the State Parks Fire and Habitat Management Coordinator, this position performs highly complex (senior‑level) natural resources work and is responsible for fuels management and habitat stewardship project planning and implementation within assigned state parks. Participates in other natural resource stewardship initiatives, including wildland fire, throughout the state as assigned. Conducts and coordinates habitat management activities such as brush management, timber marking/thinning, planting, exotic species control, fire‑line construction, and erosion control.

Assesses projects for impacts to natural and sensitive resources. Conducts habitat assessments and surveys to collect baseline flora and fauna data and monitors fire effects following department standard long‑term sampling protocols. Directs/leads firefighters during prescribed fire operations and wildfire response. Collects fire behavior and meteorological data as part of the compilation of post‑burn reports and long‑term monitoring programs. Informs and educates staff and the public about wildland fire management.

Organizes fire cache and maintains wildland fire equipment including engines, trucks, all‑terrain vehicles, suppression pumps, and tools and maintains detailed inventories. Develops and implements procedures for immediate and effective response of equipment and personnel to wildland fire operations. Assesses fuel loads and identifies fuel hazards that pose a risk to park infrastructure or visitors and develops plans for reducing/mitigating hazards.

Develop project reports and after‑action reviews for assigned projects. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division, and Branch rules, regulations, and procedures.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree.

Four years of relevant experience.

Must possess a valid class 'A' Texas Commercial driver's license OR must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a valid class 'C' Texas driver's license and convert to a class 'A' Commercial driver's license within 24 months of employment;

Required to pass the air brake component of a class 'A' Commercial driver's license standard examination.

NOTE:

Retention of position is contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required licenses and compliance with State and Federal regulations including the Department of Transportation (DOT) required drug and alcohol testing.

Must possess or be able to obtain, within 9 months of employment, a Non‑Commercial Pesticide/Herbicide Applicators license issued by the Texas Department of Agriculture;

Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, National Wildland Fire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) certification.

NOTE:

Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

Must be able to pass at time of interview or had passed within last 6 months, the NWCG arduous level physical fitness standard (walk 3 miles with 45 lb. pack in 45 minutes or less).

NOTE:

Retention of position contingent upon meeting and maintaining physical requirements.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in…