TPWD - Natural Resources Specialist II - III - IV

Please paste the following URL into a browser to view the entire job posting on the CAPPS Careers page.https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psp/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FLandAction=UandFOCUS=ApplicantandSiteId=1andJobOpeningId=103575andPostingSeq=1Job DescriptionTPWD MISSIONTo 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: Beth Bendik, 512-389-8521, [email protected] WORK ADDRESS: One of three (3) possible locations: Austin (4200 Smith School Rd, Austin, TX 78744), Waco (1601 E Crest Dr, Waco, TX 76705), or Tyler (11942 Fm 848, Tyler TX 75707) GENERAL DESCRIPTION:Under the direction of the Aquatic Resource Permitting and Consultation Program Leader and in coordination with other biologists who participate in permit review processes, the Permits and Consultations Coordinator is responsible for administration of various permit programs within Inland Fisheries Division (e.g., Exotic Species Permits for research; permits for introduction of aquatic species into public waters; permits for nongame fish harvest). This position provides the opportunity to take ownership of program oversight and for significant involvement in program development. The permit program specialist is responsible for processing forms and issuing permits both electronically and on paper, database management, monitoring compliance with requirements and regulations, and serving as a liaison to the general public, staff, and other government agencies to assist in explaining program and regulation specifics and requirements verbally, in writing, and through presentations to stakeholder groups. Coordinates program streamlining and development, potentially including but not limited to development of forms, permit documents, online permit system, and databases and other technological tools to improve program efficiency; developing policy and procedure manuals; making recommendations to improve program efficiency; and resolving technical problems. Coordinates collection and analysis of report and/or survey data and preparation of administrative program reports, studies, and specialized projects. Responds to requests for program information; anticipates requests for information and disseminates pertinent information to staff. Coordinates development of new permit program documents and procedures to implement regulation changes. Conducts or coordinates analysis of operations and problems and preparation of justifications for procedural or policy changes. Conducts and coordinates exotic species culture, zoo and research facility inspections to evaluate regulatory compliance. Conducts reviews of literature, statutes, or rules and impacts of proposed rule changes. Assists with other team administrative and budget management duties. May train others. Works statewide. 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 Aquatic Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Fisheries, Wildlife Management, or closely related field. Experience:NRS II: Two years relevant experience.NRS III: Six years relevant experience.NRS IV: Ten years relevant experience.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 is contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license. ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS:Experience:NRS II - IV: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in Aquatic Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Fisheries, Wildlife Management, or closely related field may substitute for one year f the required experience. NRS II - IV: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a PhD in Aquatic Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Natural Resource, Environmental Science, Fisheries, Wildlife Management, or closely related field may substitute two years of the required experience. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Experience: Four years experience as a natural resource permit program coordinator. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIESNRS II:Knowledge of program management processes and techniques.Knowledge of public administration and management techniques.Knowledge of general principles of biology, ecology, and/or natural resource management.Knowledge of state and federal natural resource laws and regulations related to program area.Knowledge of inspection methods for aquaculture, zoo, research, and exotic species facilities.Knowledge of general permitting processes and compliance requirements.NRS III: Knowledge of NRS II, PLUS:Knowledge of online permit systems or related software.Knowledge of technical document review and report-writing techniques.NRS IV: Knowledge of NRS III, PLUS:Knowledge of rulemaking and policy implementation.Knowledge of institutional, legal and public policy issues related to natural resource conservation, regulatory, and permitting programs.NRS II:Skill in using MS Word, Excel, and Outlook and Access.Skill in effective verbal and written communication.Skill in using personal computers, including database software.Skill in reviewing and processing permit applications.Skill in conducting inspections and documenting compliance findings.Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner.Skill in prioritizing, multitasking, and scheduling to manage several tasks simultaneously.Skill in interacting and communicating effectively orally and in writing on technical issues to many groups, including TPWD staff, the public and governmental agencies.Skill in interpreting, analyzing and explaining reg