City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Wildlife Management Biologist

Perform work under minimal supervision and provide leadership for the Airport wildlife program. Responsible for conducting a full scope of wildlife management work, interdisciplinary approach to land management, and analysis and training in accordance with the Austin Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) Wildlife Hazard Management Plan (WHMP). 

1. Manages the daily operations of the wildlife program at ABIA in accordance to the WHMP. Develops and revises the airport's WHMP as required.
2. Conducts periodic Wildlife Hazard Assessments (WHA) as required and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
3. Coordinates mitigation or elimination of hazardous wildlife and wildlife habitats on airport property and surrounding areas. Conducts harassment and/or removal program to deter wildlife from the aircraft movement areas.
4. Conducts timely and comprehensive investigations of all aircraft wildlife strikes and safety incidents involving wildlife. Prepares factual reports to summarize the circumstances and root causes of accidents or incidents.
5. Develops and administers Wildlife Education Training Programs with respect to the WHMP, required by Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 139.
6. Maintains records and supporting documents pertaining to wildlife management activities. Prepares annual strike report and completes the annual report for the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Depredation Permit and other permits as required.
7. Reviews advisory circulars and other reference materials, and recommends changes to improve operations.
8. Develops plan for wildlife projects including estimate of personnel, equipment, materials, and schedules required to carry out plans.
9. Recommends modifications to program objectives and associated documentation in accordance with established program directives.
10. Provides technical expertise, as needed, such as for proposed construction projects off or adjacent to the airport.
11. Assists in the installation of exclusionary devices to keep birds and other wildlife out of buildings and other sensitive areas, when practical and feasible.
12. Conducts inspections and audits as scheduled per procedures within the WHMP.
13. Participates in meetings with Aviation department personnel and airport stakeholders, and makes wildlife presentations when necessary.
14. Assists with annual Safety division budget preparation, formulation, and presentation briefings concerning wildlife activity.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local regulations pertinent to wildlife hazard management.
• Knowledge of FAA policies and regulations pertaining to the operation of airports and their security and access.
• Knowledge of safety and risk management methodologies and principles.
• Knowledge of airport emergency procedures and practices.
• Knowledge of organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of programs, policies, and operational needs.
• Ability to analyze and effectively report upon operating conditions and problems and to recommend or install appropriate solutions.
• Ability to organize, direct, and implement plans and programs.
• Ability to develop and deliver training presentations.
• Ability to develop reports and presentations.
• Ability to access and analyze project risks and exposures; identify options and alternatives, make decisions, and implement corrective actions.
• Ability to lead a group to accomplish a common goal.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, City Management and their staff, outside regulatory agencies, vendors and contract service providers, and the general public.
• Ability to perform all the physical, intellectual, and analytical requirements of the position including decision making.
• Knowledge of City practice, policy, and procedures.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of a variety of monitoring and testing equipment.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in both verbal and written communication.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to present oral presentations and train others.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Science, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Ecology, Range, Land Management, Biology, or a closely related field, plus four (4) years of related experience, including at least one (1) year of experience in a lead or supervisory capacity.

Valid Texas Driver's License.