GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Join a high achieving team at a superlative natural park in the shadow of the fourth largest city in the United States with a mission focused agency.

Under the direction of the Park Superintendent, this position performs routine (journey-level) operations work in a state park.  This position is designed to provide an avenue to obtain relevant experience to be competitive for future positions in park operations, such as management, interpretation/education, administration, maintenance, resource protection, law enforcement, etc. Duties include, but are not limited to:  performing a complete range of tasks to learn all aspects of park administration, operations and management; natural and cultural resource management; facility, grounds and equipment maintenance management; interpretation and education programming and management; customer service, fee collection, revenue control and fiscal accountability; marketing and promotional programming; park patrols to include visitor contact and law enforcement observation.  Performs special projects/assignments and attends selected training programs to enhance the overall working knowledge and skills related to operational and management activities.  May assist other State Parks in operations support and natural resource management.  Works under moderate supervision, with limited 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.  

NOTE: TPWD is an at-will employer, and acceptance of a trainee position does not create an employment contract or alter the nature of the at-will relationship. On-site housing required with monthly emolument.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

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

Experience:

No experience required.

Licensure:       

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

Note: Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:      

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree  in Park Administration, Recreation and Parks, Public Administration, Wildlife/Fisheries Science, Natural and/or Cultural Resources Management, Forestry, Biology, Anthropology, Archeology, History or closely related field.

Experience:

• Experience working with the public.
• Experience as a supervisor or team leader.
• Experience in revenue or budget management.
• Bilingual in any of the following languages: Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Arabic or American Sign Language.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of park operations and maintenance practices.
• Knowledge of natural and cultural resources fundamentals.
• Knowledge of financial and business practices.
• Knowledge of human resource practices and procedures.
• Skill in using MS Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner.
• Skill in using standard office equipment.
• Skill in managing several projects simultaneously.
• Skill in meeting deadlines.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts.
• Ability to provide educational and interpretive programs to varied audiences.
• Ability to learn and use all required Windows based programs associated with all park operations, i.e., reservation, budget/accounting, registration and reports.
• Ability to prepare reports.
• Ability to accurately handle cash and account for revenue collected.
• Ability to work as a member of a team.
• Ability to maintain flexibility and work with frequent interruptions and multiple changing priorities.
• Ability to handle complaints, emergencies, stressful situations, and large groups of people.
• Ability to perform manual labor including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

A trainee may apply and compete for available positions at any time during their trainee assignment.  If a trainee is not successful in acquiring a non-trainee position within 36 Months from their initial trainee assignment date, they may be assigned to any available position in the State Park system. This may result in reduction in grade/classification, reduction in pay and relocation. Declining the assignment will result in separation of employment from TPWD.  Future advancement may include positions with park police officer requirements, to include successful completion of the required background checks, physical and psychological exams, TCOLE licensing and State Park law enforcement academy.  An extension beyond the 36-month period may be authorized by the Division Director or the Deputy Division Director on a case-by-case basis.  The Trainee will be required to sign a letter, accepting the conditions of employment.

• Required to work in a public park with overnight camping.
• Required to work 40 hours per week with hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and days off other than Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
• Required to live on-site in State housing with a monthly deduction of $293.  Housing rates are established by TPWD policy, calculated using federal guidelines, and may change according to market value.
• Required to respond to emergencies and on-call situations.
• Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
• Required to perform manual labor including, lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
• May be required to operate a State vehicle.
• Required to travel 25% with possible overnight stays.
• Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules and safety procedures.
• Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.

TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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