What are the responsibilities and job description for the TPWD - Network Specialist I (Network Apprentice) position at TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE?
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: Gaylon Williams, 512-389-4554, Email Address: gaylon.williams@tpwd.texas.gov
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department - Headquarters, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Under the direction of the Network IT Operations Manager, this position performs entry-level network systems work. Assist with the installation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting of the agency's network infrastructure. This position responds to routine service requests and escalates more complex issues to senior network staff. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
NOTE: As students, paid work experience reflected on your application may be limited. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to include any additional educational, volunteer, civic/community engagement or life experiences that addresses the knowledge, skills and abilities reflected on this intern opportunity within the work experience section of the application.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
% of Time
Essential Job Duties by Category
50%
Staff Support
Observe and assist senior staff with service requests, basic troubleshooting, and ticket management while building technical skills. Learn to use monitoring tools to identify performance issues; assist in reporting findings and following corrective actions under guidance.
30%
Operational Support
Participate in staging, basic configuration, inventory tracking, deployment preparation, and RMA processes as instructed. Shadow and assist in scheduled maintenance activities and network or voice projects, gaining exposure to real-world operational tasks.
15%
Record Management
Maintain accurate records under supervision and collaborate with Network Operations and IT teams to learn standard practices and operational workflows.
5%
Marginal Job Duties:
Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with Agency, Division and Department rules, regulations, and procedures.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from High School or GED.
Current enrollment in Austin Community College with a major or course work in information technology, computer science, or a related field.
NOTE: Students applying for this position must possess academic performance that is considered in good academic standing by college/university standards.
Experience:
None required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience:
Experience in Information Technology, networking or related fields.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of what computer networks are and how they are used in an organization.
Knowledge of common network devices (routers, switches, access points) by name and function.
Knowledge awareness that networks can have performance issues and require monitoring.
Knowledge awareness of hardware lifecycle concepts (equipment staging, deployment, and replacement).
Skill in troubleshooting network connectivity and device issues.
Skill in network monitoring and reporting tools under supervision.
Skill in accurate documentation and records.
Ability to earn and apply networking concepts and operational standards.
Ability to adapt to new tools, technologies, and methods in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to cross-train and backup tasks to gain operational experience.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Apprenticeship work week schedule to be mutually determined by supervisor and intern.
Work location is at TPWD Austin Headquarters, 20 hours per week, Monday through Friday; alternative work schedules may be available.
Required to pass a national fingerprint-based background check to maintain employment.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and maintain that authorization throughout employment.
Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
May be required to travel out-of-town 5% with possible overnight stays with advanced notice.
May be required to operate a state vehicle.
Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.
PLEASE 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:
IMPORTANT:
Work In Texas (WIT) Applicants:
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: 2026-08-10
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: Gaylon Williams, 512-389-4554, Email Address: gaylon.williams@tpwd.texas.gov
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department - Headquarters, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Under the direction of the Network IT Operations Manager, this position performs entry-level network systems work. Assist with the installation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting of the agency's network infrastructure. This position responds to routine service requests and escalates more complex issues to senior network staff. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
NOTE: As students, paid work experience reflected on your application may be limited. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to include any additional educational, volunteer, civic/community engagement or life experiences that addresses the knowledge, skills and abilities reflected on this intern opportunity within the work experience section of the application.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
% of Time
Essential Job Duties by Category
50%
Staff Support
Observe and assist senior staff with service requests, basic troubleshooting, and ticket management while building technical skills. Learn to use monitoring tools to identify performance issues; assist in reporting findings and following corrective actions under guidance.
30%
Operational Support
Participate in staging, basic configuration, inventory tracking, deployment preparation, and RMA processes as instructed. Shadow and assist in scheduled maintenance activities and network or voice projects, gaining exposure to real-world operational tasks.
15%
Record Management
Maintain accurate records under supervision and collaborate with Network Operations and IT teams to learn standard practices and operational workflows.
5%
Marginal Job Duties:
Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with Agency, Division and Department rules, regulations, and procedures.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from High School or GED.
Current enrollment in Austin Community College with a major or course work in information technology, computer science, or a related field.
NOTE: Students applying for this position must possess academic performance that is considered in good academic standing by college/university standards.
Experience:
None required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience:
Experience in Information Technology, networking or related fields.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of what computer networks are and how they are used in an organization.
Knowledge of common network devices (routers, switches, access points) by name and function.
Knowledge awareness that networks can have performance issues and require monitoring.
Knowledge awareness of hardware lifecycle concepts (equipment staging, deployment, and replacement).
Skill in troubleshooting network connectivity and device issues.
Skill in network monitoring and reporting tools under supervision.
Skill in accurate documentation and records.
Ability to earn and apply networking concepts and operational standards.
Ability to adapt to new tools, technologies, and methods in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to cross-train and backup tasks to gain operational experience.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Apprenticeship work week schedule to be mutually determined by supervisor and intern.
Work location is at TPWD Austin Headquarters, 20 hours per week, Monday through Friday; alternative work schedules may be available.
Required to pass a national fingerprint-based background check to maintain employment.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and maintain that authorization throughout employment.
Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
May be required to travel out-of-town 5% with possible overnight stays with advanced notice.
May be required to operate a state vehicle.
Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.
PLEASE 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.
- Human Resources will contact Work In Texas applicants via email with further instructions.
- 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: 2026-08-10