Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - FWC (Gainesville)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/15/2024 

Pay Plan: Career Service

Salary:  $1,923.08 biweekly + benefits 

Level of Education: A Bachelor’s degree with a major in wildlife science, ecology, natural resources, or similar discipline preferred.

Division: Habitat and Species Conservation

Section: Wildlife Impact Management

Sub-section: Wildlife Assistance Program

Region: North Central

County: Alachua

Residency requirement: None

Address: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 6224 NW 43rd street Suite B, Gainesville, FL 32653

Working hours: 40hrs/week 8-5, M-F, some nights and weekend work may be required.

List of any subordinates supervised: Up to (4) OPS Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III (Wildlife Assistance Biologist)

Supervisor: Greg Kaufmann, Biological Administrator III

DESCRIPTION OF JOB DUTIES:

The Wildlife Impact Management Section is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to serve as a Senior Wildlife Assistance Biologist. This position serves as one of two Senior Wildlife Assistance Biologists for the Wildlife Assistance Program within the Wildlife Impact Management Section. This position is expected to foster strong relationships with local communities and government partners and develop lasting stakeholder engagement strategies focused on mitigating human-wildlife conflict. Duties and responsibilities include:

  • Provide day-to-day supervision of the assigned Wildlife Assistance Biologists, including hiring and onboarding.

  • Help coordinate internal and external stakeholder communication on behalf of the Wildlife Assistance Program related to wildlife damage management, human-wildlife conflict resolution, and coexisting with wildlife strategies.

  • Monitor call volumes and types of incidents, analyze incident data, and scan for emerging issues that may require detailed follow-up and customized approaches to mitigating human-wildlife conflict.

  • Identify communities experiencing human-wildlife conflict and engage with governing bodies and community partners to provide sustainable solutions to mitigate and resolve wildlife conflicts and to foster the appreciation of Florida’s native wildlife.

  • Assist communications staff with responses to media requests regarding human-wildlife conflicts.

  • Develop education and outreach materials in coordination with biological and communications subject matter experts and community relations staff.

  • Organize and conduct education and outreach activities and events, including public speaking, on behalf of the Wildlife Assistance Program.

  • Work with constituents and stakeholders to resolve wildlife conflict issues and to promote co-existing with wildlife.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of the biological sciences and scientific principles of wildlife biology, ecology, human dimensions, conservation

  • Knowledge of wildlife management issues in Florida including animal damage control techniques

  • Skilled in the use of computers for word processing, information management, communications, data management

  • Excellent public speaking skills

  • Ability to identify native and non-native wildlife

  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced work environment and adhere to time constraints with minimal supervision

  • Good organizational and problem-solving skills

  • Ability to effectively communicate and work with the public, stakeholder representatives, and coworkers

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships

  • Ability to travel overnight less than 25% of the time

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences and at least three years of professional biological experience is preferred; or

  • A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences and two years of professional experience; or

  • A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences.

  • Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Knowledge and experience addressing Human Dimensions of Wildlife Management and Wildlife Conflict

  • Experience working within a program covering a large geographic area.

  • Experience supervising professional staff

  • Experience working with a diverse set of stakeholders

In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First, applicants are required to submit a current resume and cover letter highlighting their qualifications and expressing their interest in the position. Cover letters and resumes should be uploaded to the People First System. Applications without a cover letter and resume are deemed incomplete and will not be considered.