Assistant Research Scientist - FWC (Gainesville)

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Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

Working Title: ASSISTANT RESEARCH SCIENTIST-FWC - 77000795

Salary:  $56,317/Annually 

Posting Closing Date: 03/18/2024 

We are hiring an Assistant Research Scientist in the Reptile, Amphibian and Terrestrial Invertebrate Research Subsection within the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI). This is a Career Service position with benefits.  

Duties & Responsibilities:

Conducts research on wildlife species, primarily on amphibians and reptiles that are rare or endangered in Florida, to provide information needed to better conserve the species.  Develops and implements all aspects of research or monitoring projects, including study design, data collection and analysis, and report writing. Uses appropriate and current techniques to conduct research on population size and distribution, habitat use, genetic diversity, and other issues that influence the conservation of species. Works independently, with colleagues, and cooperatively with partners from agencies, institutions, universities, and the public; may supervise technicians, volunteers, and interns on research projects.  Prepares final reports for projects, publishes results in scientific journals, and prepares information for popular audiences.

Supervises assigned field research staff and volunteers and interns. Duties include: recruitment, training, planning and directing work, reviewing performance with employee and ensuring compliance with Commission and FWRI rules, policies, and procedures.

Performs routine administrative duties such as preparation of itineraries, travel vouchers, purchase order requisitions, vehicle operation reports, and other administrative reports. Participates in public outreach efforts as appropriate. Assist with related subsection initiatives and obligations.

Participates in agency committees, initiatives, and teams, and in meetings with other partners from other agencies.

Performs related work as required. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of standard methods of data collection and management and the principles and techniques of biological research, including data analysis and publication of results; 2 – biology, conservation, and management of Florida’s amphibians and reptiles; and 3 – ecological analysis techniques.  Ability to: 1 – capture and handle wild amphibians and reptiles, 2 – design and conduct scientific studies, 3 – effectively use common word processing and database software and ArcGIS, 4 – analyze ecological data, especially with use of current analytical software programs; 5 – properly collect biological data and organize data efficiently in electronic databases; 6 – write reports and publish results in technical journals;  7 – work effectively alone or with colleagues and partners; 8 -  work on an irregular schedule for extended hours, travel overnight as needed, and work in a variety of field conditions; 9 - manage multiple projects simultaneously;  and 10 – Safely drive 4WD vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, small boats. Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license. 

Minimum Qualifications:  

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and two years of experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics. A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for one year of the required experience.  A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for the required experience. 

*4 years professional experience in a close-related biological field or laboratory program can substitute for the required bachelor's degree; additional years of experience as described above are also required.