OPS Fish & Wildlife Technician - 77902476

This Other Personal Services (OPS+) position works with team of biologists and other technicians to manage natural communities and wildlife populations on the Hutton Unit of Blackwater Wildlife Management Area (WMA).  Under the direct supervision of the Senior Fish and Wildlife Technician on the area, the incumbent operates and maintains heavy equipment used to complete management projects on the area. Responsible for maintenance, diagnosis of problems and repairs of equipment including bulldozer, dump truck, farm tractors, mowers, trucks, trailers, ATVs, chainsaws and construction equipment.  Assists with the development and maintenance of area improvements such as informational signs, kiosks, check station, roads, parking areas, fences, gates and equipment storage facilities and offices. Maintenance activities require experience and skills in electrical, carpentry, plumbing, painting and welding. Conducts habitat management activities which include the use of specialized mechanical equipment for clearing and chopping dense vegetation, controlled burning, groundcover restoration, preparation and planting wildlife forage plants, and chemical or mechanical control of invasive pest plants. Assists area biologist in conducting wildlife surveys. Monitors vegetation response to habitat manipulations. Assists with management of public hunts, including check station operation and collecting biological data from hunter harvested animals including deer Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) specimens. Performs routine administrative responsibilities such as submitting biweekly timesheets, harvest reports and vehicular operation cost records. Assists other wildlife management areas as directed and provides technical assistance to individuals, organizations, and other government agencies regarding wildlife and habitat management Participates in regional and divisional coordination meetings or training programs. Completes other duties as assigned.