OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - FWC - 77907055
Date: Nov 16, 2017
Location: SAINT PETERSBURG, FL, US, 33701
Requisition No: 24364
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - FWC - 77907055
Position Number: 77907055
Salary: $12-15/hr Depending on Experience
Posting Closing Date: 11/26/2017
Position is funded by a multi-year grant (5 years) that requires annual renewals and ends 12/31/18.
Job Description
Conduct all aspects of the Fisheries-Independent Monitoring (FIM) program with emphasis on directing and executing statistically valid research experiments and surveys in marine waters to evaluate relative stock abundance and condition of fish populations. Coordinate and conduct fisheries-independent sampling efforts following strict protocol; entering, proofing, and correcting associated data; maintaining and repairing needed field equipment. Complete fish and invertebrate identifications following strict QA/QC protocols using a microscope and/or video cameras. Conduct laboratory experiments following strict QA/QC protocols. Run side scan sonar equipment to characterize bottom habitat composition and complexity, including high relief, natural hard bottom and artificial reefs. Process and manage collected data following defined procedures. Perform routine summaries of data generated from above studies and assist in preparing technical and scientific reports, oral presentations, and/or manuscripts based on fisheries independent monitoring results/analysis. Perform and participate in public outreach efforts, as appropriate. Perform other related work as required. This position requires extensive offshore field work with numerous days at sea every month and the ability to move heavy and cumbersome gear around the decks of 36-100 foot offshore research vessels.
Minimum Requirements
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences. A valid driver’s license.
Preferred Experience
Applicants with the following experience may be given preference: Offshore fisheries experience. Experience identifying fish from underwater video or still cameras. Experience mapping bottom habitats using side scan sonar. Experience working in a laboratory setting.
Knowledge, Skill(s), and Abilities
Knowledge of Florida juvenile and adult fish and invertebrate identification using dichotomous keys; of methods and gear used for collection of fisheries samples; of personal computers; of database software; of electronics and technology; of bottom habitats along the west Florida shelf; Ability to perform strenuous field duties in adverse conditions (e.g. inclement weather, rough water, boat engine exhaust, shoreline wading); Ability to follow strict laboratory protocols and maintain good laboratory practices; to safely operate and trailer vessels less than 26’ in length; to participate in frequent multi-day research cruises (up to 12 consecutive days); to collect and summarize fisheries data; to prepare technical reports and communicate effectively verbally and in writing; to establish and maintain effective working relationships; to work both independently and on a team; work hours in excess of 40 per week; maintain a valid driver's license; and complete a boater safety course.
To Apply
Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Employment Application Form electronically in People First (http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com) by the closing date listed. Resumes and supporting documentation may be submitted at the same time you are applying online, faxed, or mailed to People First, but do not replace the requirement for a completed State of Florida Employment Application Form.
WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) employment is a temporary employer/employee relationship used solely for accomplishing short term or intermittent tasks. OPS employees do not fill established positions and may not be assigned the duties of any vacant authorized position. OPS employees are at-will employees and are subject to actions such as pay changes, changes to work assignment, and terminations at the pleasure of the agency head or designee.
WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?
- State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory
- Workers’ Compensation - mandatory
- Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory
- Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements)
- Deferred Compensation - voluntary
- Employee Assistance Program – voluntary
WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?
- Any form of paid leave
- Paid holidays
- Participation in the Florida Retirement System
- Reinstatement rights or retention rights
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.
Nearest Major Market: Tampa