OPS Research Associate - FWC (Gainesville)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/17/2024 

 Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Research Associate - OPS 77907426

Gainesville, Florida - $23.18 per hour

Anticipated Vacancy

Minimum Qualifications:
5 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required or bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; or a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience.

 
Preferred Qualifications:

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications:
One or more degrees in wildlife biology, zoology, or related natural resources field. Knowledge of bear ecology and the principles and techniques related specifically to research of American black bears, experience supervising and/or training seasonal technicians in appropriate field skills and research protocols, experience collecting hair samples used to estimate abundance and density, and experience using and maintaining GIS files.

 Requirements:
Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate. 
Typical office hours are from 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday, with possible seasonal work on weekends and/or other times as research requires. Not eligible for Telework.

Driver’s license is required.

Responses to qualifying questions should be verifiable by skills and/or experience stated on the profile application/resume. 

Provide at least 3 professional references attached to a resume.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The Bear Research Program is seeking a biologist who will assist in all aspects of black bear research activities throughout Florida, with primary focus on estimating abundance and density of bears in the 6 larger subpopulations. Duties involve conducting and coordinating data collection, training and supervising seasonal field technicians, managing and analyzing data, and writing reports and manuscripts for publication. Additionally, the candidate may be required to assist with outreach activities as needed.

Although the status is OPS, this is a long-term position that is not seasonal or grant funded.
 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of natural sciences and the principles and techniques related wildlife research and analysis.

Knowledge of the methods of data collection and the ability to collect and analyze data then prepare written reports.

Ability to communicate effectively and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others, including private citizens, staff from the FWC, other state and federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations.

Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to biological sciences.

Strong organizational skills and the ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a research team.

Knowledge in using Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Outlook and use of GPS equipment to record and save data.

Ability to work in extreme field conditions (very remote, high heat and humidity, etc.) and navigate to remote field sites using GPS or maps.

Ability to work a variable schedule, mainly seasonally, as required to complete research objectives.

Skills in safe and proper use of field equipment, including 4X4 and off-road vehicles, and the ability to tow utility trailers within 8 months of starting employment (training provided).

Ability to present research results to colleagues at technical conferences and to the public at festivals, schools, or other events.

OPS FISH/WILDLIFE TECHNICIAN - FWC (Eustis, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 10/18/2024 

Location: EUSTIS, FL, US, 32726

Salary:  $15.00-$16.00 

Pay Plan: Seasonal

Description:

Looking for an individual with a flexible schedule and boating experience to serve as a creel clerk on Lake Griffin. Incumbent will collect angler effort, catch, and harvest data via verbal angler interviews for freshwater sportfish species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and bream. Roving creel surveys occur during 2.75 hour periods and consist of boating the entire shoreline of a lake at fixed intervals. Incumbent will count and interview every angler encountered in a polite and professional manner and follow a predefined interview protocol.  Creel surveys times are at random throughout the month. Individual must be able to effectively communicate verbally with the public, work irregular weekday and weekend work periods, often in inclement weather, and operate watercraft up to 20ft. Position will be responsible for safely storing and delivering collected creel data to supervisor. Position is temporary and could end in early May 2025, with possible extension through November 2026.

Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III - FWC (Christmas, FL)

Apply and view more details here! Deadline to apply is 10/1/2024.

Title: Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III

Salary: $1,730.77 biweekly

Working hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm, Monday – Friday, occasional weekend work and atypical hours expected. Occasional overnight travel required.

List of any subordinates supervised: 1 OPS Fish and Wildlife Technician

Residency requirement: Required to live within 25-miles of the entrance of Split Oak Forest WEA.

Level of Education: Preferred Bachelor of Science degree in a life or physical science. Four years of direct, relevant experience may substitute for the Bachelor of Science degree.

Benefits: Participate in Group health insurance

Other Requirements: This position is designated as a home-is-office position. Incumbent will be required to complete prescribed burning training to obtain and maintain a FL certified prescribed burn manager certificate within 18 months of hire date. Will be required to obtain and maintain a current and valid Florida Driver’s license. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. The criminal history check must be completed prior to or within the first three days of employment.

Description of duties:   

The FWC’s Northeast Region is seeking a highly motivated candidate for an exciting and challenging opportunity to lead management on the Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) in Orange and Osceola Counties, Florida. Split Oak Forest WEA, located just outside of metropolitan Orlando in an increasingly urbanized region, serves as an important link in the Florida wildlife corridor as an area where visitors can experience the natural landscape of central Florida and observe many of the native plant and wildlife species. This position serves as the Lead Area Biologist responsible for habitat management on over 1,650 acres of natural communities including scrubby, mesic, and wet flatwoods, basin marsh, and hammocks to benefit non-game and imperiled wildlife and plant species including the gopher tortoise, gopher frog, Bachman’s sparrow, and wild turkey. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and implementing habitat management and restoration activities including the application of prescribed fire on approximately 450 acres per year as well as conducting various mechanical and chemical treatments, and invasive species management. The incumbent will also assist with management on various other WMAs in the NE region.

Incumbent is responsible for all aspects of running the WEA including the assisting with periodic revision of the management plan; infrastructure management, development and maintenance as required by area management plans; wildlife monitoring and data entry; managing public access; reporting; purchasing; and budget management; and GIS. The incumbent will interact professionally with the public and partners, including other state and federal agencies as well as non-governmental organizations to provide information concerning wildlife, area management, and rules and regulations. Occasionally the incumbent will be required to travel to attend regional and divisional meetings as well as various trainings as needed.

Preference will be given to candidates that have hands on prescribed burn experience and candidates that are Florida Certified Prescribed Burn Managers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Incumbent must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and leadership skills, be able to work well with team members and interact positively with stakeholders and cooperators. 

Other knowledge, skills and abilities include: 

• Knowledge of principles of ecology and wildlife management

• Knowledge of the common and imperiled species of Florida

• Knowledge of the principles of fire ecology and experience with the application of prescribed fire

• Knowledge of wildlife and land management practices including mechanical and chemical vegetation control

• Knowledge and experience in supervising multiple team members

• Knowledge of outdoor recreational activities including hunting and fishing

• Ability to work as part of a team and independently

• Experience conducting wildlife surveys and summarizing biological data

• Knowledge of and experience in ArcGIS and GPS and its application to land management and surveys

• Proficient with Windows and Microsoft Office applications

• Ability to identify common and imperiled wildlife species

• Ability to operate outdoors under harsh weather conditions

• Ability to write technical reports

• Ability to plan and prioritize work assignments and multi-task

• Ability to operate vehicles, ATVs, trailers and heavy equipment

Apply online here!

OPS - Fish and Wildlife Technician - FWC (Punta Gorda, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/22/2024 

Starting pay rate: $18.23 / hr.

Region: SW

Title: OPS - Fish and Wildlife Technician

County: Charlotte

City:  Punta Gorda

Facility: Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area Field Office

Address and telephone number: Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area  29200 Tuckers Grade Punta Gorda, FL 33955

Phone:  (863) 648-3200

Supervisor : Seth Sofferin 

Working hours: 8am – 5pm; maximum allowable hours per year: 1,920

List of any subordinates supervised: N/A

Residency requirement: N/A

Level of Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Description of duties: THIS IS AN OPS POSITION.  IT IS NOT CAREER SERVICE.

An exciting opportunity exists for a Fish and Wildlife Technician to join a team of employees within the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section managing Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area and the Yucca Pens Unit in Charlotte County.  This team member will assist with chemical and mechanical control of desirable and non-desirable vegetation.  Operates ATVs, UTVs and 4x4 trucks with trailers.  Applicants will be expected to professionally represent the agency to members of the public. Additional duties include assisting biologists with wildlife management activities for game and non-game species to include surveys, check station management, and accurate technical biological data collection.  Prepares and submits accurate daily, weekly, and bi-weekly reports for herbicide application, timesheets, and accomplishments.  Interacts professionally with the public and partners providing accurate information concerning wildlife, area conditions, rules, and regulations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Should have prior experience treating and identifying Florida exotic/invasive plant species.

• Should have strong organizational and communication skills and GPS proficiency.

• Ability to work independently.

• Ability to plan and organize work assignments.

• Familiar with outdoor recreational activities.

• A valid driver’s license and ability to trailer and operate 4WD vehicles is required.

• Knowledge of wildlife and land management principles and practices.

• Knowledge of troubleshooting maintenance issues that come up in the field.

• 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.

• 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.

• Applicants with a Florida Natural Areas Pesticide License may be given preference

Senior Seasonal Burn Crew Member (full-time) - The Nature Conservancy (Central Florida)

To view more details and apply, click through to…

Internal Applicants​ through Peoplesoft.

External Applicants; additional information about working for TNC can be found here.

Closing date: 10/5/2024

Hiring Manager: Adam Peterson

Salary Range: $20.00-24.75/hour

Ready to be a part of wildland fire operations? Join us as a Senior Burn Crew Member (SBCM) and be at the heart of the action! From ignition to mop-up, you'll tackle tasks like preparing fire lines and monitoring post-burn activities. But that's not all – your journey with us means continuous growth. Master new techniques and equipment to level up your skills and certifications. Plus, you'll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate.

Under the guidance of our Land Conservation Manager and Land Management Specialists, you'll assist with prescribed burns, ensure safety protocols, maintain equipment, and operate various machinery such as ATVs, UTVs, tractors, and chainsaws. This role may be exposed to variable weather conditions at remote locations, work on difficult, hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. As a full-time prescribed fire crew member, you will participate in continuous prescribed fire assignments throughout a six-month term beginning January 6, 2025, ending June 27, 2025. Conservation housing will be provided at either The Disney Wilderness Preserve in Kissimmee, FL or Tiger Creek Preserve in Babson Park, FL.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent and two seasons as a qualified FFT2 or agency equivalent. 

• Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement for this position.  See TNC Fire Management Manual.

• Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.

• Experience operating various types of equipment.                        

• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g., First Aid, CPR).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

• Experience managing volunteers or entry-level staff.

• Ability and willingness to work in a team environment.          

• Two or more years of experience in fire operations related experience in land management or a similar field.

• Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g., Word, Excel, Web browsers). 

• Communicating clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English and other relevant languages.

Seasonal Burn Crew Member (full-time) - The Nature Conservancy (Central Florida)

To view more details and apply, click through to..

Internal Applicants​ through Peoplesoft.

External Applicants; additional information about working for TNC can be found here.

Closing date: 10/5/2024

Hiring Manager: Adam Peterson

Salary Range: $17.00-21.00/hour

Ready to be a part of wildland fire operations? Join us as a Burn Crew Member (BCM) and be at the heart of the action! From ignition to mop-up, you'll tackle tasks like preparing fire lines and monitoring post-burn activities. But that's not all – your journey with us means continuous growth. Master new techniques and equipment to level up your skills and certifications. Plus, you'll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate.

Under the guidance of our Land Conservation Manager and Land Management Specialists, you'll assist with prescribed burns, ensure safety protocols, maintain equipment, and operate various machinery such as ATVs, UTVs, tractors, and chainsaws. This role may be exposed to variable weather conditions at remote locations, work on difficult, hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. As a full-time prescribed fire crew member, you will participate in continuous prescribed fire assignments throughout a six-month term beginning January 6, 2025, ending June 27, 2025. Conservation housing will be provided at either The Disney Wilderness Preserve in Kissimmee, FL or Tiger Creek Preserve in Babson Park, FL.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent. 

• Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement for this position.  See TNC Fire Management Manual.

• Must achieve physical fitness standard as determined by local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.

• Experience operating various types of equipment.                        

• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

• 6 months-1 year of related experience.  

• Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.

• Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g., Word, Excel, Web browsers). 

• Communicating clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English and other relevant languages.

Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist II - FWC (Lake City)

To apply and see more details, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 09/22/2024 

Salary: $1,538.46 biweekly

Supervisor:  Blair Hayman

Location: 3377 E. US Hwy 90, Lake City, FL 32055

Region:  North Central

County:  Columbia

Working Hours:  8:00am – 5:00pm

Work outside of regular 8-hour schedule may occasionally be required.

List of Subordinates Supervised:  None

Residency Requirement:  None

A resume or Cover letter describing your interest in this position and your relevant experience must be attached to the electronic State of Florida employment application. 

Level of Education: Prefer a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in one of the life/physical sciences, or at least three years of direct experience with the duties of this position.  Years of experience can substitute for the degree.

Description of Duties.  The Division of Habitat & Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices.  The Wildlife Diversity Conservation Section (WDC) is seeking a wildlife professional for an exciting opportunity to benefit a wide variety of rare species across North Central Florida.  This position will provide ample opportunities for an early career biologist to gain valuable skills including field survey and monitoring techniques, grant writing and management, permitting, and budgeting. Recent projects have focused on imperiled crayfish conservation efforts, wading bird surveys, pond-breeding amphibian surveys, shorebird and seabird management, and bat acoustic surveys, but opportunities to work with other rare species exist based on identified regional priorities. 

This is a full-time employment position that is eligible for all career service state employee benefits including paid leave, health insurance, retirement benefits, tuition waivers for continuing education and numerous agency trainings for professional development.   

The person in this position serves as Assistant Regional Biologist (ARB) in the Wildlife Diversity Conservation (WDC) Section for Florida’s 17-county North Central Region. This person will work as part of a regional team to develop and conduct population survey and monitoring projects, species and habitat management projects, and coordinate other conservation activities for Species of Greatest Conservation Need across the region.  

The biologist hired for this position will assist with implementing management actions on important conservation lands and private properties, work collaboratively with other agency staff members to assist with planning processes, and serve as lead for regional issues when necessary.  This position assists in project reviews that may result in wildlife impacts and provides biological comments on permits for listed species. This person will gain experience in the development of technical documents such as scientific publications and conservation plans, including review, editing and implementation.

This position serves an important role in assisting the regional team to develop or enhance partnerships, communicate with the public and other agencies regarding conservation of non-game wildlife, and engage in educational and outreach opportunities, including stewarding and presentations to partners, colleagues, and the public on priority conservation topics.  

The biologist will assist in overseeing data management for priority projects for the long-term bat monitoring project, the seabird and shorebird program, wading bird nesting inventories and other survey and management projects; assist with regional purchasing, entering and reporting vehicle mileage logs, and overseeing vehicles/vessels/equipment maintenance schedules.  

The person in this position will have the opportunity to lead conservation projects and pursue solutions to address threats to wildlife in alignment with regional priorities.  

Agency supported and individual-specific trainings will be made available to the person in this position as needed. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing is essential.  

Above all, the successful applicant will be enthusiastic, self-motivated, and have a commitment to natural resource conservation and excellence in customer service. The preferred candidate will have strong organizational (time management, office organization, information management), customer service, and problem-solving skills. Prior understanding of or experience in scientific writing is important.   

Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of imperiled terrestrial species in Florida;  Experience in conducting or leading wildlife surveys and monitoring; Ability to conduct moderately strenuous wildlife management and monitoring activities outdoors during hot, humid, and buggy conditions, and sometimes during inclement weather; Experience operating outboard boats up to 18’ in length; Ability to work independently and with teams; Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Outlook Calendar, and Excel and communication software such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.