OPS Research Associate - 77907426
Date: Sep 13, 2018
Location: GAINESVILLE, FL, US, 32601
Requisition No: 44150
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Working Title: OPS Research Associate - 77907426
Position Number: 77907426
Salary: $19.71 Per Hour
Posting Closing Date: 10/04/2018
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)
Section/Subsection: Wildlife Research/Terrestrial Mammals
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
The Bear Research Program is seeking a biologist to serve as the Assistant Coordinator who will assist in all aspects of black bear research activities throughout Florida. Duties include field research such as erecting hair corrals for non-invasive estimates of bear abundance and capturing, radio-collaring and collecting data from adult and neonatal bears. The candidate will work closely with landowners, manage budgets and purchases, and train technicians. Candidate will also assist with designing research protocols, managing and analyzing data, and writing reports and publications. Additionally, the candidate will assist with bear management activities and research of other carnivores as needed, provide expertise in carnivore ecology to Commission staff, serve on Commission teams, and represent the Bear Research Program to stakeholder groups.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Valid driver’s license
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in a life or physical science and two years of professional experience in a field or laboratory program;
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
A master's degree from an accredited college or university in a life or physical science, preferably in the wildlife biology/wildlife ecology, or zoology.
Experience trapping, immobilizing, and radio collaring bears or other mammalian carnivores.
Skilled in the use of GPS and VHF telemetry, including triangulation, and managing and analyzing resulting data.
Skilled in population modeling using spatially explicit mark-recapture methods, preferably using Program R.
Ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders and members of the public from various backgrounds and points of view;
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision or as part of a team;
Possess good writing skills.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of mammal biology and ecology
Knowledge of population management using the North American model of conservation
Ability to multi-task effectively by planning and prioritizing work assignments
Ability to calculate dosages and administer immobilization chemicals used to anesthetize bears
Ability to conduct biological studies/surveys and generate, analyze and communicate biological data in a relevant manner
Skilled in the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) to manipulate and analyze animal movement data
Ability to problem-solve and handle conflicts with professionalism
Solid public speaking skills and well-developed writing skills
Ability to work in teams and independently to complete tasks in a timely and organized manner
Ability to supervise and train seasonal technicians
Ability to safely drive ATVs and 4x4 vehicles towing utility trailers or travel trailers.
Ability to maintain vehicles and other field equipment.
Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays
Ability to travel out of town with overnight stays, with extended travel during field seasons
This OPS position is eligible for Florida deferred compensation plans and health insurance benefits under the Affordable Care Act. This position is not eligible for paid leave (annual, sick, or holiday).
WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) 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 (must meet eligibility requirements. Consult with People First or the servicing Human Resource Office for details.)
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
In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First, applicants are required to also upload a current resume and cover letter highlighting their qualifications and interest in 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.
Nearest Major Market: Gainesville