TAHC Temporary Livestock Inspector, Ectoparasite Response

Position Title: Temporary Livestock Inspector – Ectoparasite Response

Position Location: Laredo/Willacy

Your Skills. Our Mission. Stronger Together at TAHC!

Start your career at the Texas Animal Health Commission as we work together to protect the livestock industry. Whether you’re looking to begin your career, apply your current skills and experience, or explore opportunities to innovate, we encourage you to apply! At TAHC, we promote a culture of teamwork, open communication, transparency, and a commitment to educating the public while safeguarding Texas livestock. Join us and make a difference—because protecting Texas agriculture starts with you!

*This is a full‑time, temporary position currently funded through August 31, 2027. Continuation beyond this date is dependent on the availability of permanent funding.

General Description:

Performs moderately complex (journey-level) inspections of ectoparasites including Cattle Fever Ticks, New World Screwworms (NWS) and other livestock pests and diseases. Performs inspections at livestock markets, feedlots, slaughter plants, flea markets, farms and ranches, and at other places where livestock, exotics, and poultry are gathered. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. May require irregular working hours, overtime, and occasional weekends.

Essential Duties:

• Performs inspections for signs of ectoparasites at livestock markets, feedlots, slaughter plants, flea markets, farms and ranches, and at other locations where livestock, exotics, and poultry are gathered.
• Monitors and surveys livestock to identify ectoparasite infestations early to help prevent the spread.
• Reports any suspects of ectoparasite infestation to appropriate veterinarian staff and management.
• Collects samples for testing from cattle, swine, equine, exotics, sheep, goats and poultry.
• Collaborates with state and federal agencies to assist with control measures, including but not limited to release of sterile males to NWS populations.
• Enforces quarantines and other livestock disease control measures, including livestock shipment activities.
• Provides education to the livestock producers and the general public on ectoparasites and the importance of early detection and reporting.
• Performs periodic public education contacts with community media resources and organizations.
• Serves in a primary active role in emergency management activities and responses to disease outbreaks as assigned.
• Maintains accurate and detailed work activity records.
• Drives extensively on a daily basis, using a personal or agency vehicle. May travel outside of Laredo region.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.