OPS Fish & Wildlife Technician - FWC (St. Cloud, FL)

To view more information and apply, click here.

Posting Closing Date: 04/12/2026 

OPS Hourly Rate: $18.23/hour 1920 hours a fiscal year (potential for group health insurance)

Supervisor: Jared Draxler --contact information for inquiries: Jared Draxler@myFWC.com - (407) 498-0991

List of any subordinates supervised: none

Position location: 5285 North Kenansville Road, St. Cloud, FL 34771

Residency Requirement: Within a 25-mile radius of the Triple N Ranch or Bull Creek WMA entrance.

Working hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm, Monday – Friday, maximum allowable hours per year: 1,920 – Duties may require some early morning, night, or weekend duty and occasional overnight travel.

 

Minimum qualifications: A high school diploma and 1year of post-high school experience in wildlife, fisheries, environmental, ecological or related agriculture or construction is required.

Vocational training or an associate’s degree in wildlife, fisheries, environmental, ecological or related agriculture or construction from an accredited school or college may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

Additional requirements: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Must possess and maintain a valid minimum Class E State of Florida driver’s license. Must be able to operate ATVs, tractors, heavy equipment, and tools. Must be able to lift 50 pounds and walk or stand for extended time periods, must be able to work at night (occasionally) or in inclement weather. Occasional overnight travel is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Ability to operate, maintain and repair heavy equipment and associated implements

• Ability to work independently

• Ability to plan and organize work assignments

• Familiar with outdoor recreational activities

• Skilled in construction activities including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and welding

• Knowledge of wildlife and land management practices, such as prescribed burning and herbicide use for vegetation control

• Basic use of personal computers

• Ability to operate outdoors under inclement weather conditions

• Ability to frequently push, pull and/or carry more than 50 pounds

 

Description of Duties:

THIS IS AN OPS POSITION.  IT IS NOT CAREER SERVICE. 

The FWC’s Northeast Region is seeking a highly motivated candidate to join a team of biologists and technicians on Triple N Ranch and Herky Huffman Bull Creek Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) in Osceola County, FL. This position serves as an OPS Fish and Wildlife Technician on a highly productive team of land managers to restore and enhance habitats for the benefit of a variety of species and for the enjoyment of Florida residents and visitors. The successful candidate will be a key team member responsible for all aspects of management of the WMAs including application of ~12,000 acres of prescribed fire annually and conducting mechanical and chemical vegetation control (mowing, roller chopping, herbicide, etc.) to manage habitats. Habitat improvement is focused on imperiled and locally important species including, but not limited to, red-cockaded woodpecker, striped newt, northern bobwhite, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey. Additionally, this position will assist with planting of wildlife food plots to benefit wildlife and ensure a high quality recreational experience for area users on Triple N Ranch WMA. The successful candidate will assist with the operation of hunter check stations on the two WMAs as well as Fort Drum WMA to collect biological data of hunter harvested game.

Additionally, the position will assist with infrastructure construction, maintenance and repair, including roads, trails, culverts, fences, gates, signs, and buildings. The position will operate, maintain and repair area equipment and vehicles including trucks, tractors, ATVs, heavy equipment and various implements (disc harrows, mowers, sprayers, etc.).  Incumbent also must possess the ability to troubleshoot and repair small engines, implements, and heavy equipment. The incumbent will interact with various partner agencies and the public to provide information concerning wildlife and area management, rules and regulations. Occasionally the incumbent will attend regional and divisional meetings as well as various trainings as needed.

Fish/Wildlife Technician - FWC (Punta Gorda, FL)

To view more information and apply, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 04/12/2026 

Salary:  $1,346.15 biweekly + benefits 

Supervisor: Karch Chancellor

Supervisor contact information for inquiries: 941-833-2555, Karch.Chancellor@MyFWC.com

Position location: Babcock-Webb WMA, 29200 Tuckers Grade, Punta Gorda, FL 33955

Residency Requirement: Employee required to live within 25 miles of Babcock-Webb WMA.

Working hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00-5:00, evenings and weekends as required

Description of Duties:

An exciting opportunity exists for a Fish and Wildlife Technician to join a team of employees within FWC’s Wildlife and Habitat Management Section in managing a lead Wildlife Management Area (WMA). FWC’s Southwest Region is seeking a motivated applicant that is willing and able to work outdoors in a variety of conditions throughout the year in fulfillment of their job responsibilities. Responsibilities include the restoration and maintenance of wildlife habitat on the Fred C. Babcock – Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area by applying prescribed fire, mechanical treatments, and non-native invasive plant control throughout the area. The employee will also be a key member of the WMA prescribed burn team. Additional duties include operating, maintaining and repairing area equipment and vehicles including trucks, tractors, ATVs and heavy equipment in accordance with manufacturer and industry recommendations. Incumbent also must possess the ability to troubleshoot the repairs of pumps, motors and heavy equipment.

This position also assists biologists with surveying and monitoring of threatened and locally important species, resource inventories, and public hunt management. Assists in the planning, development and maintenance of projects facilitating public use including parking and road construction, culvert installation, trash pickup, building maintenance and fence, gate and sign construction and maintenance. Interacts professionally with the public and partners providing accurate information concerning wildlife, area conditions, rules and regulations. Attends regional and divisional meetings and training programs.

Minimum Qualifications: A high school diploma or equivalent and 1 year of post-high school experience in wildlife, fisheries, environmental, ecological or related agriculture or construction is required. Vocational training or an associate’s degree in wildlife, fisheries, environmental, ecological or related agriculture or construction from an accredited school or college may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

Preferred Qualifications: Strong familiarity with vehicle and equipment operation and maintenance. Familiarity with both native and invasive vegetation in Central Florida. Experience with prescribed burning.

Answers to qualifying questions must be validated in application, resume and cover letter.

Additional requirements: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Must possess and maintain a valid minimum Class E State of Florida driver’s license. Must obtain a State of Florida Class A Commercial Driver’s License within 270 days of appointment and maintain license thereafter. Occasional overnight travel is required to attend trainings and meetings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Incumbent be able to work well with team members and members of the public. 

Other required knowledge, skills and abilities include:

  • Ability to operate, maintain and repair heavy equipment and associated implements

  • Ability to work independently

  • Ability to plan and organize work assignments

  • Familiar with outdoor recreational activities

  • Skilled in construction activities including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and welding

  • Knowledge of wildlife and land management principles and practices

  • Basic use of personal computers

  • Ability to operate outdoors under inclement weather conditions

  • Ability to frequently push, pull and/or carry more than 40 pounds

  • Ability to work productively alone with remote supervision or as member of a team, and the flexibility to occasionally work long hours and variable schedules, such as nights, weekends, or holidays

Land Conservation Planner IV - FWC (Tallahassee, FL)

To view full posting and apply, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 03/04/2026

Anticipated Vacancy

Salary: $1,730.77/biweekly

Supervisor contact information for inquiries:   Larame Ferry at Larame.Ferry@MyFWC.com

Position address & telephone: 620 S. Meridian Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301

Minimum Qualifications:

  • A high school diploma and six years experience in a biological or planning field. A bachelor’s degree can substitute for four of the six years of experience.

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is preferred, along with two years of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work OR a master’s degree in one of the biological sciences, urban planning, or a related field, along with one year of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work.

Answers to qualifying questions must be validated in application, resume, and cover letter.

 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: 

  • Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects under tight deadlines, while ensuring compliance with Florida Statutes and the Florida Administrative Code.

  • Strong public speaking and facilitation skills for conducting public meetings and presenting at public hearings related to the development of land management plans for state-owned conservation lands. Experience in this area is preferred.

  • Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS); formal GIS training and experience are preferred.

  • Skilled in organizing, coordinating, and leading meetings with internal staff, external stakeholders, and representatives from other agencies.

  • Ability to travel throughout Florida for up to five consecutive days, on occasion, for site visits, public meetings, and support of planning efforts.

  • Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license and ability to operate a state-owned vehicle is required.

 

Position Description:

The Land Conservation and Planning (LCP) program of the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section is responsible for the implementation and administration of the FWC’s land acquisition and management planning efforts. The program supports the protection and restoration of Florida’s wildlife habitats and natural resources through comprehensive planning, public engagement, and inter-agency coordination.

This position serves as a Land Conservation Planner (Planner IV) and will play a key role in managing land conservation planning projects, facilitating public meetings, conducting GIS analysis, coordinating with the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) and other state and regional partners.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Lead and coordinate the development and updates of management plans for Wildlife Management Areas and Wildlife Environmental Areas, in collaboration with municipalities, stakeholders, FWC staff, and partner agencies such as the Florida Forest Service, Water Management Districts, and the Department of Environmental Protection.

  • Assist in maintaining and updating GIS data layers related to FWC-managed lands, Florida Forever conservation projects, and potential acquisition areas.

  • Plan and facilitate public stakeholder meetings and hearings required for the development of management plans, including logistical coordination, communication with internal and external partners, and preparation of meeting materials.

  • Represent FWC at ARC meetings, presenting management plans and engaging in inter-agency coordination.

  • Review management plans and amendments submitted by other agencies to ensure compliance with applicable statutes and policies.

  • Participate in Land Management Reviews for FWC-managed areas.

  • Support other program functions and special projects, such as acquisition project evaluations, Florida Forever prioritization efforts, procurement, and vehicle coordination.

 

Application packets must be submitted through the State of Florida’s official employment site (https://peoplefirst.myflorida.com/) and must include a cover letter and resume in addition to the state application. Application packets without a cover letter, resume and state application will not be considered for the position.

Government Operations Consultant - FWC (Tallahassee)

OPS -Government Operations Consultant II - 77909029

Date:  Feb 14, 2026


The State Personnel System is an E-Verify employer. For more information click on our E-Verify Website.

Requisition No: 865124 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS -Government Operations Consultant II - 77909029

Position Number: 77909029 

Salary:  $22.95 an hour 

Posting Closing Date: 03/02/2026 

 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Position Number:   77909029

Position Title:   OPS Government Operations Consultant II

OPS Hourly Rate:   $22.95/hourly, 1,920 hours/annually

Supervisor: Dean Cox

Supervisor contact information for inquiries:   850-487-9573

Broadband Code:   13-1111-04

Position location:   2002 Old St. Augustine Rd., Tallahassee, Florida 32301

Region:   Northwest

County:   Leon

Working hours:   Mon.-Fri. 8 am-5 pm

List of any subordinates supervised:   None

Residency Requirement:   Yes

 

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

 

Agency information

Our organization: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.

 

Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

 

Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself.  The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

 

The Division of Habitat & Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices. This position works within the Land Conservation and Planning (LCP) program of the Wildlife Habitat Management Section of the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.

 

Minimum qualifications:

  • A high school diploma and five years of work experience that included administrative duties. An associate’s degree can substitute for two of the five years’ experience and a bachelor’s degree can substitute for four of the five years’ experience.

  • An associate’s degree from an accredited college or university is preferred, along with three years of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work OR a bachelor’s degree in one of the biological sciences, urban planning, or a related field, along with one year of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work.

 

Answers to qualifying questions must be validated in application, resume, and cover letter.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

  • Possession of a valid Florida Driver’s License (required).

  • Training and background in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with the ability to integrate GIS layers into maps and conduct GIS analyses for commission-managed lands, Florida Forever projects, and potential conservation land acquisitions.

  • ESRI/GIS certification (preferred, not required).

  • Familiarity with My Florida Marketplace (preferred, not required).

  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with staff, agency partners, and stakeholders.

  • Ability to travel occasionally throughout Florida to assist acquisition agents and planners with meetings and site visits.

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to coordinate acquisition-related documents, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and maintain accurate records.

 

Position Description

The LCP program provides a unique opportunity to combine conservation, planning, and real estate in a statewide role. The program is responsible for conservation land acquisition and land management planning across Florida, overseeing matters affecting more than six million acres within the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) system and facilitating the land conservation goals of the agency through programs such as Florida Forever.

 

This position plays a critical role in supporting:

  • The Acquisition and Restoration Council

  • FWC’s Land Management Planning Program

  • The FWC Florida Forever Additions and Inholdings Land Acquisition Program

  • Intra-agency and inter-agency coordination

  • Stakeholder engagement and public meetings

 

The OPS Government Operations Consultant will perform GIS analysis, review real estate due diligence, assist with easement reviews, support conservation acquisition and land management planning initiatives, and provide office and operational support for the LCP program.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist with the development of acquisition project proposals, prospectuses, and related documents.

  • Perform GIS tasks, including maintaining acquisition geodatabases and conducting spatial analyses for Florida Forever projects, acquisition proposals, and FWC-managed lands.

  • Maintain spreadsheets, logs, files, databases, and other program records to improve workflow and functionality.

  • Support property and lease inventory tracking and related administrative duties.

  • Monitor operational activities to ensure alignment with statewide goals.

  • Investigate, analyze, and make recommendations to resolve programmatic, administrative, and operational issues.

  • Consult with supervisors and staff to develop and implement solutions for acquisition and planning challenges.

  • Coordinate and facilitate inter- and intra-agency meetings; prepare public communication materials regarding FWC-managed areas and acquisition projects.

  • Attend and support meetings related to land acquisition projects and management plan development.

  • Travel as needed to assist planners and acquisition agents with site visits and stakeholder meetings.

  • Assist with travel arrangements and reimbursements for program staff.

  • Handle all office purchasing, including land acquisition documentation and procurement paperwork.

  • Perform other related duties as assigned, and complete training as required to support professional development.

  • How to Apply:

Application packets must be submitted through the State of Florida’s official employment site (http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com/) and must include a cover letter and resume in addition to the state application.  Application packets without a cover letter, resume and state application will not be considered for this position.

 

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

 

VETERANS’ PREFERENCE.  Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply.  Certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements.  Candidates claiming Veterans’ Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code.  Veterans’ Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here.  All documentation is due by the close of the vacancy announcement. 

Location: 

TALLAHASSEE, FL, US, 32301

Vice President of Conservation Policy - Florida Wildlife Federation (Tallahassee, FL)

Click here for full description and application instructions.

Position Summary

The Federation is seeking an experienced, strategic leader to serve as Vice President of Conservation Policy. The role is responsible for developing and executing the Federation's policy agenda and leading advocacy efforts to advance land conservation, wildlife protection, and healthy waterways. The VP will drive legislative and regulatory success through strategic coalition building, stakeholder engagement, and relationship development at the local, state, and federal levels.

The VP will build and manage a team of policy staff, ensuring that the Federation’s advocacy efforts are grounded in science, aligned with organizational values, and positioned to achieve measurable conservation outcomes. The ideal candidate is a seasoned government relations professional with a track record of legislative and regulatory success who thrives at the intersection of policy, strategy, and coalition building.

The Vice President of Conservation Policy will collaborate across departments and with external partners, coalitions, and stakeholders to advance integrated conservation strategies. This role reports directly to the President & CEO.

Salary: Starting at $95,000, negotiable based on experience and qualifications

Essential Responsibilities and Tasks

Strategic Leadership & Policy Development

• Develop and lead statewide policy strategy on conservation land protection, wildlife management, water quality, and habitat conservation

• Represent the Federation as a subject matter expert in conservation, enhancing our presence in policy discussions, media, and stakeholder engagement

• Conduct legislative tracking, policy research, and regulatory analysis across multifaceted conservation issues

Advocacy and External Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and conservation partners statewide

• Prepare policy briefs, testimony, and position papers on critical conservation issues

• Lead strategic advocacy campaigns, balancing grassroots organizing with strategic relationship building

Organizational Leadership

• Develop and manage a team of conservation professionals

• Support internal coordination to ensure unified messaging and timely response on priority issues

• Guide messaging strategy for policy priorities, working closely with the Communications team

• Coordinate with the Development team to secure funding through grants, donations, and partnerships

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in Florida conservation policy, government relations, advocacy, or related fields

• Deep understanding of Florida’s legislative & regulatory processes and regional dynamics

• Demonstrated experience influencing policy outcomes or leading advocacy campaigns

• Proven ability to work effectively with a diverse set of stakeholders and decision-makers

• Exceptional analytical, writing, and communications skills, ability to simplify complex issues

• Experience building and managing teams

• Commitment to science-based decision-making and long-term conservation of Florida’s natural resources

Director and Principal Scientist - Audubon Florida (Audubon Everglades Research Station (AERS), FL)

To view job posting and apply, click here!

Position Summary:

The Audubon Everglades Research Station (AERS) is Audubon’s premier community ecology field station operating since the 1930s in Tavernier, Florida. The center’s efforts focus on the birds and ecosystems of Florida Bay and the Everglades and contribute to the design and operation of Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) projects. The Director and Principal Scientist, AERS will be the next scientist to lead this important long-term ecological monitoring and research unit while also identifying new opportunities for the research to inform Audubon conservation and policy recommendations for the greater Everglades ecosystem. This is essential work in Audubon’s Flight Plan vision to recover the hemisphere’s birds and at the same time, preserve the natural resources that support us all.

The Director and Principal Scientist is expected to represent Audubon Florida and contribute our unique historical perspective and current data to Everglades ecosystem science and restoration efforts in the broader community, with state and federal agencies, and other partners.  The Director must be highly collaborative, able to connect with and communicate their work to multiple stakeholders, value the importance of long-term ecological monitoring, and be experienced in directing ecological research.

The Director and Principal Scientist will oversee an annual research budget of approximately $1.2M with expectations of obtaining significant external funding to support this important work through a combination of grants and other external funding in collaboration with Audubon’s fundraising team.  The Director oversees one direct report (Senior Biologist) with a full team of 9 full-time and 1-2 seasonal staff. The position is full-time (40 hours per week) on-site at the Audubon Everglades Research Station in Tavernier, FL. 

Only applications submitted with a cover letter will be considered.

Compensation: $103,094 - $115,981 / year

Additional Job Description:

Essential Functions

  • Act as primary investigator on applied research projects related to the Everglades watershed including currently funded Florida Bay projects monitoring prey base fish populations, submerged aquatic vegetation, hydrology, Roseate Spoonbills, and other important wading bird species. 

  • Drive the vision of the AERS in partnership with Audubon Florida leadership to ensure that the work is focused on the most impactful science to inform Everglades restoration and the conservation of Florida Bay.

  • Lead current contract and grant-funded efforts and continue to advance a robust portfolio of external funding for AERS including identifying new funding opportunities, writing proposals, tracking and fulfilling grant deliverables, participating in grant obligations such as quarterly meetings, and timely compliance with reporting requirements.

  • Provide strategic and operational oversight of Center activities, delegating day-to-day execution to technical staff while maintaining ultimate responsibility for personnel decisions and the maintenance and operation of all AERS facilities, vehicles, vessels, and technical equipment. Participate as a scientific expert representing Audubon in the evaluation of restoration project design and operation recommendations on advisory bodies such as the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council, Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan Project Delivery Teams, species working groups, and other relevant groups.

  • Cultivate strong relationships with relevant federal, state and academic partners involved in Everglades restoration research.  Coordinate activities with other government, university, and nonprofit entities conducting field research in southern Florida.

  • Coordinate with state and national communications and policy teams to assist in developing communications materials, lead press tours of Florida Bay, and represent Audubon Florida in media interviews.

  • Meet with funders and support the Development Team as needed. This may include attending occasional Board meetings, events, or facilitating boat tours of Florida Bay.

  • Maintain and foster culture of safety.

  • Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • A Ph.D. in biological sciences, environmental sciences, or a related discipline preferred, and an exceptional candidate with a M.S.  and significant experience may also be considered.

  • At least 10 years of field research experience in coastal and marine habitats, south Florida preferred.

  • A demonstrable understanding of conservation issues facing the state of Florida.

  • Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills that can be adapted to reach a wide range of individuals and used to build consensus.  Expert in scientific writing, grant writing, and communicating their science to a variety of audiences.

  • Experience doing statistical analysis and working in R and ArcGIS is highly desirable. 

  • Physical requirements include the demonstrated ability to occasionally work long hours in the field in sub-tropical wetland environments with or without accommodation, exposed to the challenging South Florida environment (extreme heat, biting insects, wading in water or mud, with presence of snakes, crocodiles and other wildlife), with limited connectivity while complying with the standards of Audubon’s Safety Manual.

  • Must have operating experience with small boats and other vehicles, including boat trailering.

  • Willingness to occasionally work on evenings and/or weekends.

  • Valid driver’s license required. Ability to acquire a Florida Boating Safety Education Identification Card, Everglades National Park Boating Certificate, and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary voluntary boating certificate upon hire.

  • Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

  • Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Three Rooker Island Shorebird Monitoring and Stewardship Coordinator - Audubon Florida (Tampa, FL)

To view more information and apply, click here!

Compensation: $20.00 / hour

Position Summary:

Three Rooker Island Shorebird Monitoring and Stewardship Coordinator is responsible for assisting Florida Park Service staff with beach-nesting bird monitoring and stewardship work at primary off-shore sites in Pinellas County, Florida. Nesting species surveyed include but are not limited to Black Skimmers, Royal Terns, Laughing Gull, Snowy Plovers, and American Oystercatchers. Stewardship activities will be conducted on Three Rooker Islands, located within Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Surveys and monitoring will be conducted on all islands within Anclote Key Preserve State Park (Three Rooker Islands, Anclote Key), Honeymoon Island State Park, and Caladesi Island State Park. At these sites, the coordinator is responsible for assisting Park staff by helping to monitor and protect sites from disturbance through stewardship activities requiring motorboat transportation to and from Three Rooker Islands; recruiting, organizing, and working closely with volunteers to chaperone beach-nesting bird colonies during weekends and major holidays; educating beachgoers about these species; encouraging compliance with posted areas; and engaging in outreach to user groups as directed by supervisor.

This is a seasonal, full-time, grant-funded position working 40 hours per week to include weekend days and the following holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, if nesting persists until the latter holiday. The position start date is anticipated to begin on April 8, 2026 and continue through the end of nesting season, determined in consultation with supervisor and Park staff. Nesting may persist into late August but can end early in the event of a catastrophic event or other total loss of nesting activity.

The Stewardship Coordinator will be based out of their home in the Tampa Bay area. This is an exciting seasonal position for a professional biologist with experience of shorebird/seabird surveys and experience of operating small vessels in nearshore marine waters.

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions:

With direction from the Shorebird Program Manager and designated Florida Park staff, the Coordinator will:

  • Ensure all sites are monitored and surveyed weekly for signs of disturbance and changes in nesting status; including during the monthly Florida Shorebird Alliance beach-nesting bird survey windows.

  • Post and maintain symbolic fencing and signage around nesting sites by set deadlines.

  • Input survey data and band resights into the Florida Shorebird Database and Access or Excel databases as directed by the supervisor or Park staff within one week following the survey date.

  • Summaries of survey and stewardship data required for grant report submissions.

  • Contribute photos and submit content for program-related publications in a variety of media.

  • Periodic cleaning and maintenance of program vehicles, trailers, and boats as needed.

  • Train, mentor, and manage volunteers engaged in monitoring and stewardship activities.

  • Engagement of the public around coastal bird conservation through outreach at beach sites and through presentations to user groups.

  • Conduct public outreach at beach-nesting sites on weekends and holidays independently and with other staff as part of a team of bird stewards, to target maximum number of beachgoers and prevent nest disturbance. Hours may run longer or change as needed, and overtime is anticipated on holiday weekends.

  • Other job-related duties as assigned.

  • Assist with Audubon staff to ensure that inclusion and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.

  • Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field preferred.

  • 1-2 years demonstrated experience performing bird surveys required; experience in shorebird and seabird identification and performing waterbird surveys strongly preferred.

  • Demonstrated experience in solo operation of a motorboat in nearshore marine waters with wet landings is required; operating and maintaining equipment including boats, trucks, and trailers a must.

  • Demonstrated experience performing fieldwork in challenging coastal marine conditions required including operating small vessels in tides, strong currents and inclement weather

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision and to maintain accountability for work products.

  • Demonstrated experience working with partners and volunteers in a professional manner.

  • Strong verbal communication and problem-solving skills; excellent judgment and decision-making skills.

  • Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing inclusion, and belonging.

  • Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation to complete assigned tasks.

  • Ability to move 30 lbs., with or without accommodation.

  • Willingness to maneuver with field equipment in challenging Florida summer field conditions while traversing up to 5 miles on sandy beaches, with or without accommodation.

  • Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and some evenings, often in hot and humid Florida Summer field conditions.

  • Spanish fluency preferred, but not required.

  • Familiarity with coastal conservation lands of the Pinellas County Gulf coast a plus.

  • Interest in conservation and passion for the mission of the National Audubon Society a must.

  • Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

  • Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.