TPWD - Microbiologist V (Fish Health Specialist)

Job Description

Job Description

TPWD MISSION

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.

HIRING CONTACT: Ryan Rogers, 512-353-0572, [email protected]

PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Inland Fisheries, Analytical Services, 505 Staples Road, San Marcos, TX, 78666

GENERAL DESCRIPTION :

Under the direction of the Program Director, the Fish Health Specialist performs highly advanced (senior-level) microbiological work and is responsible for planning, developing, and implementing advanced microbiology analyses for Inland Fisheries. Acts as a technical consultant on matters related to fish health and fish pathogens for other professionals within the division. Leads laboratory operations for processing and serves as subject matter expert for fish health related invasive species, such as Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and Golden Algae (Prymnesium parvum), utilizing microscopy, eDNA, and diagnostic techniques to support statewide biosecurity. Cultivates relationships with stakeholders and advisory groups on wildlife and fisheries conservation issues related to fish health. Participates in working groups, cooperative initiatives, and serves as a TPWD representative at state, regional, national, and international levels. May function as a team lead and/or supervise the work of others. Works under minimal 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.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

Education :

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, virology, or closely related Biological science.

Experience :

One year of experience working in fish health, microbiology, virology or fisheries science.

Licensure :

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.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS :

Experience :

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a relevant Master's degree may substitute for one year of experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :

Education :

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in biological science with course work emphasizing microbiology, chemistry and fisheries biology.

Experience :

Experience in a microbiology laboratory.

Four years of progressive experience working in fish health, microbiology, virology or fisheries science.

Licensure :

Fish Health Inspector Certification from the American Fisheries Society.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :

Knowledge of microbiological principles and techniques.

Knowledge of fish diseases.

Knowledge of invasive species threats to Texas fisheries.

Knowledge of current technology, software and equipment used in fish health management and diagnostics.

Skill in the operation of microbiological laboratory equipment and in the use of a

computer and applicable software.

Skill in effective verbal and written communication.

Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts.

Skill in making independent, sound, timely decisions.

Skill in developing processes, procedures and policies for administrative functions.

Skill in interacting and communicating effectively on technical issues with various groups including all levels of the department, the public and other governmental or controlling agencies.

Skill in analyzing data, preparing concise technical reports and scientific publications and reviewing, interpreting, summarizing and commenting on technical documents.

Ability to maintain fish health databases and analyze fish health data.

Ability to keep abreast of current methodologies and recommend and adapt new methods and procedures.

Ability to manage and maintain an effective and efficient office, including prioritizing workloads, meeting deadlines and maintaining facilities and equipment.

Ability to plan and operate within a budget.

Ability to prepare and make written and oral presentations to a variety of technical and non-technical audiences.

Ability to work well with TPWD staff, universities, government agencies and non-government organizations in a professional manner.

Ability to conduct professional meetings.

Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.

Ability to work independently with little or no supervision.

Ability to work as a member of a team.

WORKING CONDITIONS :

Required to work from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Required to work overtime and occasional weekends and holidays as necessary.

Non-smoking environment in state buildings and vehicles.

Required to perform manual labor including, lifting supplies and materials up to 20 lbs.

Required to travel with possible overnight stays.

Required to operate a state vehicle.

Required to adhere to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules and safety procedures.

Required to follow non-smoking policy in all state buildings and vehicles.

P LEASE NOTE:

All applications must include complete job history information for each period of employment, provided either in the WORK HISTORY SECTION or in the attached RÉSUMÉ. Please ensure each entry includes:

• Job title,
• Employer name,
• Dates of employment (month/year),
• If employment is less than full-time status, indicate part-time in the work history section or résumé, and
• Description of duties performed.
  NOTE: Volunteer experience may be counted toward required experience.

IMPORTANT:

• College Transcripts: If education is used to meet the minimum qualifications, a copy of the college transcript(s) issued by the registrar must be provided at the time of interview (unless otherwise noted in the posting).
• 'N/A' may be entered in fields that are not applicable.
• Omission of required information may result in disqualification.

Work In Texas (WIT) Applicants:

• WIT applicants must complete the supplemental questions in the CAPPS Candidate Gateway to be considered.
• To complete these questions, log in to CAPPS Candidate Gateway .
• If you need assistance creating a résumé, please refer to the 'Create a Résumé' link for Job Seekers on the Work In Texas website .

If the required information and attachments are not submitted as noted above, your application will be considered incomplete.

EXCELLENT BENEFITS:

Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a variety of benefits for employees such as generous paid time off, group insurance, retirement and pension, and frequent training and staff development opportunities. Other benefits include longevity pay, merit pay, deferred compensation, flexible benefit plans, 401K/457 retirement plans, direct deposit, staggered work hours, Employee Assistance Program and a Return-to-Work Program. For new employees or rehires, health insurance is available on the 1st of the following month after a 60-day waiting period. Click HERE to view our Benefits page.

MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE:

If you choose to claim military employment preference as outlined by the State of Texas, you must attach the required documentation referenced below at the time your application is submitted . If you have questions regarding this requirement, please visit our Military Employment Reference page at https://tpwd.texas.gov/jobs/veterans/ .

Required forms that will need to be attached with application for Military Employment Preference:

Veteran- DD214 showing honorable discharge or Statement of Service (only for transitioning service members who have not reached their date of separation).

Surviving spouse of a veteran who has not remarried- Marriage Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation.

Orphan of a veteran killed while on active duty- Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation.

Spouse of a member of the US Armed Forces/Texas National Guard serving on Active Duty- Marriage Certificate and copy of spouses active-duty military orders.

Spouse of a veteran with disability and is the primary income for household- Marriage Certificate, Veterans DD214, and VA Benefits Summary Letter showing disability rating.

Documentation must be attached to the application before military preference can be granted.

*More information on military occupational specialty codes can be found below:

https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/

https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf

TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Closing Date/Time: 2026-10-15