Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - FWC (Tallahassee)

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Posting Closing Date: 11/20/2024 

Location: Russell Office Park, 1875 Orange Avenue East, Tallahassee, FL preferred; one of FWC’s regional offices may be considered based on applicant’s qualifications

Region: Northwest

County: Leon

Working Hours:  8:00am – 5:00pm

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

Salary: $1,923.08 bi-weekly plus benefits

Supervisor: Michelina Dziadzio

List of Subordinates Supervised:  may include supervision of 1 OPS Biological Scientist II

Residency Requirement: Florida

Level of Education:  Prefer a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in one of the biological sciences and three years of professional biological experience. Master of Science degree in one of the biological sciences with two years of supervisory and professional experience in conservation programs strongly preferred. Years of experience can substitute for a degree.

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

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 fish and wildlife professional for an exciting opportunity to contribute to the conservation of imperiled wildlife and their habitats. This position requires a passion for conservation, dedication to working with diverse stakeholders, and the ability to work creatively to address conservation challenges.

This position serves as the Gopher Tortoise Program Coordinator within the Wildlife Diversity Conservation Section of FWC. This is a professional position that requires detailed understanding of gopher tortoise natural history and conservation practices, strong organizational and time management skills, public speaking and meeting management experience, research and analytical skills, the ability to manage various projects and contracts, and administrative/supervisory experience.

The Gopher Tortoise Program Coordinator will lead programmatic implementation and coordination of Florida’s Gopher Tortoise Management Plan and associated conservation actions. They will work to develop collaborative partnerships and engage with stakeholders to promote the implementation of conservation practices that benefit gopher tortoises and their habitats. This position communicates the conservation goals, objectives, actions, policies, and permitting procedures included in the Gopher Tortoise Management Plan to interest groups, permit applicants, permittees, stakeholders, and the public. The incumbent will also lead or participate on the Gopher Tortoise Policy Team, lead the Gopher Tortoise Management Plan Implementation Team, and plans bi-annual meetings of the Gopher Tortoise Technical Assistance Group (GTTAG). The incumbent will also have a lead role in the revision of the Gopher Tortoise Management Plan and Gopher Tortoise Permitting Guidelines, as applicable.

The incumbent will serve as a Subject Matter Expert regarding tortoise biology, research needs, conservation priorities, and habitat management practices. They will provide input on requests for habitat management plan amendments, research permits related to gopher tortoises, media requests, and other agency communications. This position coordinates an annual call for gopher tortoise research and outreach proposals and manages contracts with awarded parties. When appropriate, this position also assists in developing, amending, and/or managing Memorandums of Agreement and other contracts.

Additional responsibilities include assisting with facilitation of internal and public meetings, providing skills and expertise wherever needed through work on interdisciplinary teams (both internal and external), developing gopher tortoise eLearning modules, participating in easement and/or recipient site monitoring, and coordinating and participating in a variety of education and outreach events. This position may also perform related work as directed by their supervisor. These duties include, but are not limited to, timely completion of routine paperwork, preparation of reports, or assisting with Agency, Division or Section priorities. Some overnight travel will be required (1-25%). This position may supervise one position that will manage datasets and assist with tracking implementation of conservation actions. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

The ideal candidate for this position will be enthusiastic, self-motivated, and have a commitment to natural resource conservation. They will possess exceptional leadership, supervisory, partnership relations, administration, and project and time management skills. In addition, the candidate will have:

• Knowledge of gopher tortoise life history, permitting requirements, and management practices and techniques.

• Knowledge of Florida upland ecosystems and suitable gopher tortoise habitat.

• Knowledge of gopher tortoise and upland vegetation survey techniques and practices.

• Skills in public speaking, meeting facilitation, and scientific writing.

• Skills in visioning, long-range planning, and developing innovative solutions.

• Skill in developing contracts and contract management.

• Ability to communicate effectively and interpret scientific information to stakeholders.

• Ability to manage high-stress situations, analyze complex issues, and supervise staff.

• Ability to represent agency viewpoints without personal conflicts.

• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments and stakeholder meetings.

• Ability to form partnerships, travel, and train staff.

• Ability to understand and apply applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

• Skill in using Microsoft Office and ESRI/ArcGIS applications, preferred.

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

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Region: Southwest

County: Polk

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

List of any subordinates supervised: None

Supervisor: Rhonda Latour

Minimum Qualifications:

Prefer a bachelor's degree with a major in wildlife science, ecology, natural resources, or similar discipline preferred. Preference will be given to applicants with at least two (2) years wildlife-related professional experience and experience with wildlife-related education and outreach.

In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First, applicants are required to submit a current resume and a cover letter highlighting their qualifications and expressing their interest in the position.

Cover letters and resumes shall be uploaded to the People First System.

Applications without a cover letter and resume are deemed incomplete and will not be considered.

Description of Position:

The Wildlife Impact Management Section (WIM) is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to serve as a Wildlife Assistance Biologist. The incumbent serves to support regional Wildlife Assistance Biologists by providing information or methods to prevent or mitigate conflicts with wildlife to the public, other agencies, and other Commission staff. Assistance may be provided over the phone, in person, or in writing. Work outside of normal business hours is generally not required. Some field work may occur but is not a regular component of this position. The successful candidate will occasionally represent the Wildlife Assistance Program at outreach events, presentations to citizen groups, and site visits to provide technical assistance, conflict mitigation strategies and loan equipment as necessary. The Wildlife Assistance Biologists works across multiple Divisions and Sections within FWC to:  

• Coordinate management of conflict wildlife situations including those involving bears, coyotes, birds, and other wildlife species.

• Network to establish clear communication across the agency about emerging wildlife issues.

• Assist with the implementation of response protocols for to human-wildlife conflict situations in coordination with other FWC programs including the Division of Law Enforcement.

Responsibilities include, but are not necessarily limited to the following:

• Provide technical assistance to the public and other agencies on means to address human-wildlife conflicts and to promote strategies to coexist with wildlife.

• Maintain familiarity with prevalent conflict wildlife issues and continually identify and share best technical assistance practices and protocols as required.

• Provide coverage for other regional Wildlife Assistance Biologists as needed.

• Maintain an accurate and thorough daily log of public correspondence via the Wildlife Impact Management System database.

• Participate in public outreach efforts as directed to increase appreciation for wildlife and address conflict wildlife abatement or other wildlife-related issues.

• Assist the regional FWC Public Information Directors with media and stakeholder information requests.

• Respond to requests via the AskFWC program, to answer questions about wildlife or wildlife conflict resolution.

• Occasionally support the FWC’s Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program’s management efforts through response activities.

• Remain up to date on Commission rules and regulations regarding protected wildlife, the take of wildlife, conflict wildlife abatement, and related issues.

The Commission expects its employees to be courteous and respectful while assisting Commission customers and stakeholders, ensuring each encounter is as positive as possible. Employees should promptly resolve questions or problems relating to the Commission, its programs and/or fish and wildlife resources. Employees should seek to gain public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida’s citizens in a positive and proactive manner and by listening to what the customer wants and striving to meet their needs. When appropriate, employees will explain the reasons for agency actions or decisions while communicating a consistent FWC message.

Responsible for following the provisions and requirements in Section 215.422, Florida Statutes, related to the Department of Financial Services rules and FWC’s invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures.

Work at FWC is cross-functional meaning duties may cross division/office lines. The Commission expects employees to function across FWC’s organizational structure by providing their skills and expertise wherever needed through work on teams or as directed.

Knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position: 

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

• Exemplary customer service skills and an ability to interface effectively with the public over the phone on a daily basis regarding sensitive topics.

• Ability to develop and effectively present educational outreach material to adult audiences

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

• Knowledge of and experience with wildlife damage control techniques.

• Ability to identify native and non-native wildlife.

• Knowledge of wildlife issues in Florida.

• Ability to work well both independently and in a team-setting in a fast-paced work environment, accurately record data, and meet deadlines with minimal, remote supervision.

• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

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

• Skill in providing good customer service.

• Ability to safely operate a vehicle.

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

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION OR REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS:

Valid Florida driver’s license 

Fisheries & Wildlife Technician - FWC (Felda, FL)

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ANTICIPATED VACANCY

Posting Closing Date: 11/17/2024 

Position address and telephone number: 100 CR 832 Felda, FL 33930

Phone: (863) 612-0775

Supervisor and Position number: Vacant 

Starting pay rate: $1,346.15 bi-weekly ($35,000 annually) + benefits.

        Description of duties:  The Division of Habitat and Species Conservation is comprised of six sections and two offices. This position is in the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section.

        The FWC’s South Region is seeking a highly motivated candidate to join a team of biologists and technicians on the Okaloacoochee (OK) Slough Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Hendry County, FL. This position serves as a full-time, field-oriented Fish & Wildlife Technician on a team to restore and enhance habitats for the benefit of a variety of wildlife and for the enjoyment of Florida residents and visitors.

        This position is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of various equipment including trucks, ATVs, UTVs, swamp buggies, tractors and their implements, front end loaders, trailers, mowers, chainsaws, and weed eaters in accordance with manufacturer and industry recommendations. The incumbent must be able to troubleshoot equipment failure issues and follow manufacturer's recommendations for periodic preventative maintenance and fabricate and repair equipment including minor motor repairs and small engine repairs utilizing welders, cutting torches, and other various hand/air tools.

        Additionally, this position is responsible for infrastructure construction, maintenance, and repair, including barbed wire fences, buildings, gates, roads, and signs, and performing custodial functions. The incumbent will assist biologists with various land management activities including prescribed burning, installing firebreaks, and mowing, chemical and mechanical control of invasive and exotic plants. The incumbent will prepare and submit accurate documents such as timesheets and equipment use reports. The incumbent will assist with the operation of hunter check stations on the WMA to collect biological data of hunter harvested game. The incumbent will interact with partner agencies and the public to provide information concerning wildlife and area management, rules, and regulations. The incumbent will attend regional and divisional meetings and various trainings and assist on other management areas as needed.  

        Applicants with a valid Class A CDL and S-130/S-190 wildland fire certifications preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Able to operate, maintain, and repair heavy equipment and associated implements.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to plan and organize work assignments.

• Familiar with outdoor recreational activities.

• Skilled in construction activities including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and welding.

• Knowledge of wildlife and land management practices, such as prescribed burning and herbicide use for vegetation control.

• Ability to identify areas of need and improvement in the work environment and come up with creative and effective solutions.

• Ability to navigate using GPS units in the field.

• Basic use of personal computers (including Microsoft Office).

• Ability to work outdoors under harsh conditions (e.g., heat, rain, biting insects, rough terrain).

• Ability to frequently push, pull and/or carry more than 50 pounds.

• Strong work ethic in support of goals and objectives in managing the area, including good communication skills with team members, staff, and diverse public users.

Fish/Wildlife Technician - FWC (Felda, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 10/14/2024 

Location:  Spirit-of-the-Wild WMA 100 CR 832 Felda, FL 33930

Starting pay rate: $1,346.15 bi-weekly + benefits.

Supervisor and Position number: Tanner Mazanec (77072829)

Working hours: 8-5 M-F, early mornings, evenings, and weekends as required.

County: Hendry

Residency requirement:  Reside within a 25-mile radius of the Spirit-of-the-Wild WMA Field Office.

Level of education: High School Diploma or GED.

Additional requirements: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Must possess and maintain a valid minimum Class E State of Florida driver’s license. Must be able to operate ATVs, tractors, heavy equipment, and tools. Occasional overnight travel is required.

        Description of duties: 

The Division of Habitat and Species Conservation is comprised of six sections and two offices. This position is in the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section.

        The FWC’s South Region is seeking a highly motivated candidate to join a team of biologists and technicians on the Spirit-of-the-Wild Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Hendry County, FL. This position serves as a full-time, field-oriented Fish & Wildlife Technician on a team to restore and enhance habitats for the benefit of a variety of wildlife and for the enjoyment of Florida residents and visitors.

        This position is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of various equipment including trucks, ATVs, UTVs, swamp buggies, tractors and their implements, front end loaders, trailers, mowers, chainsaws, and weed eaters in accordance with manufacturer and industry recommendations. The incumbent must be able to troubleshoot equipment failure issues and follow manufacturer's recommendations for periodic preventative maintenance and fabricate and repair equipment including minor motor repairs and small engine repairs utilizing welders, cutting torches, and other various hand/air tools.  

        Additionally, this position is responsible for infrastructure construction, maintenance, and repair, including barbed wire fences, buildings, gates, roads, and signs, and performing custodial functions. The incumbent will assist biologists with various land management activities including prescribed burning, installing firebreaks, and mowing, chemical and mechanical control of invasive and exotic plants. The incumbent will prepare and submit accurate documents such as timesheets and equipment use reports. The incumbent will assist with the operation of hunter check stations on the WMA to collect biological data of hunter harvested game. The incumbent will interact with partner agencies and the public to provide information concerning wildlife and area management, rules, and regulations. The incumbent will attend regional and divisional meetings and various trainings and assist on other management areas as needed.  

        Applicants with a valid Class A CDL and S-130/S-190 wildland fire certifications preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Able to operate, maintain, and repair heavy equipment and associated implements.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to plan and organize work assignments.

• Familiar with outdoor recreational activities.

• Skilled in construction activities including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and welding.

• Knowledge of wildlife and land management practices, such as prescribed burning and herbicide use for vegetation control.

• Ability to identify areas of need and improvement in the work environment and come up with creative and effective solutions.

• Ability to navigate using GPS units in the field.

• Basic use of personal computers (including Microsoft Office).

• Ability to work outdoors under harsh conditions (e.g., heat, rain, biting insects, rough terrain).

• Ability to frequently push, pull and/or carry more than 50 pounds.

• Strong work ethic in support of goals and objectives in managing the area, including good communication skills with team members, staff, and diverse public users.

OPS Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - FWC (Tallahassee)

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Posting Closing Date: 10/12/2024 

Salary: $27.30 hourly

Location: Russell Office Park, 1875 Orange Avenue East, Tallahassee

Supervisor: Laura DiGruttolo, Laura.Digruttolo@MyFWC.com

Working hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., not to exceed 40 hours/week

Years of Experience Desired:  3+

Education: Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred

% Travel Required:  +/- 30%

A resume and cover letter should be included with the application package.  For question regarding this position, please contact Laura DiGruttolo at Laura.DiGruttolo@MyFWC.com or (850) 728-5147.

Position Description

This is a rewarding and challenging opportunity to contribute to landscape-level conservation objectives and benefit a variety of rare and imperiled species and their habitats across the State of Florida.  The incumbent will be part of a team that participates in long-term planning processes of Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) projects around the State of Florida.  This position serves as a biologist in the Land Use Planning (LUP) Program in the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation’s Office of Conservation Planning Services (CPS).  Biologists in the LUP Program gain in-depth knowledge of Florida's environmental regulations and their practical applications, serve the public, and develop an enhanced understanding of listed species habitats and life histories while helping to shape a sustainable future in Florida.  The position works as part of a talented and diverse team and coordinates with wildlife experts throughout the Agency. 

Duties

This position is responsible for coordination with FDOT and participation in the Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) process, wildlife permitting, special initiatives related to imperiled species management, and assisting in the training of transportation professionals.  Work involves regular coordination with FDOT, other biologists and wildlife experts throughout FWC, and stakeholders internal and external to the agencies.  This is an office-based position with occasional overnight travel and working outside of normal business hours.  Specific duties include:

• Project review and technical assistance ahead of regulatory processes.

• Acting as a liaison, providing responsive communication, and developing standard operating procedures for working with FDOT and other agencies.

• Developing, coordinating, and/or implementing management actions, outreach and communication products, study designs, and monitoring programs.

• Review of protected wildlife species conservation permit applications in accordance with FWC rules and regulations and administrative timelines, including reviewing applications for completion and sufficiency and other related functions.

• Coordinating conservation actions for the implementation of the FWC Imperiled Species Management Plan in transportation planning and roadway construction.

• Developing and maintaining effective communications between FWC divisions, sections, and work units.

• Handling issues that may be high profile or controversial independently.

• Representing FWC at meetings and conferences.

Desired Qualifications

Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife or fisheries management, zoology, environmental sciences, or other closely related curriculum.  A graduate degree and two years of professional experience is preferred.  Specialized experience and education in wildlife biology, land management, upland and wetland ecology, environmental impact review and assessment, transportation, or other related areas is preferred.  Above all, the successful applicant will be self-motivated, organized, and have a commitment to excellence in customer service.  Candidates must demonstrate:

• Experience collaborating with entities of varying interests and managing conflict with excellent communication skills.

• Proficiency in technical report writing.

• An understanding of fish and wildlife ecology and management needs.

• Experience with imperiled species or their habitats.

• Knowledge of natural resources conservation practices.

• Working knowledge of transportation project planning, principles of wildlife crossing design, and related environmental reviews.

• Working knowledge of federal and state-wide natural resources regulations and environmental permitting processes.

• Experience in using GIS software.

OPS F & W Biological Scientist II - FWC (Ft. Myers)

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Posting Closing Date: 10/10/2024 

Salary: $20.84/hour (not to exceed 1,920 hours per year); 40 Hours a week

Level of Education: Prefer a Bachelor’s degree in life or physical sciences.

Region: Southwest

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

Address: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Wildlife Impact Management Section, 1922 Victoria Ave. Unit B Fort Myers, FL 33901

Supervisor: Vance Young, Wildlife Impact Management Section, Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Biologist IV

Minimum Qualifications: Prefer a Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. A valid Florida driver’s license required once employee begins work. 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.

Description of Position:

The Wildlife Impact Management Section is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to help address nonnative fish and wildlife in Florida.  Primary responsibilities of this position focus on management efforts and Early Detection Rapid Response for high priority nonnative species, including, but not limited to large constrictors, lizards, amphibians, birds and mammals in the South and Southwest region of Florida. Particular focus will include high priority reptiles such as Argentine black and white tegus, Nile monitors, and Burmese pythons. The incumbent will conduct work on public and private land and will be responsible for maintaining good working relations with the public and with partners to help address invasive species issues in Florida.

Primary duties will include:

• Helping design trapping projects with live traps and camera traps;

• Opening and closing live traps in urban and rural locations on a daily basis, maintaining bait in traps, releasing by-catch from trapping efforts unharmed, safely and humanely removing nonnative wildlife from traps, live trap repair and construction;

• Maintaining camera traps in urban and rural locations on a weekly basis;

• Responding to reports of priority nonnative wildlife and removing invasive, potentially dangerous wildlife using other methods, including hand capture, air rifles, firearms, snake hooks, noose poles, net guns, etc.;

• Caring for captive animals used for education and training;

• Assisting with operation of the Exotic Species Hotline by answering phone calls from the public and documenting reports of nonnative wildlife observations in a database;

• Planning survey routes and conducting surveys for nonnative wildlife;

• Humanely killing nonnative wildlife using approved methods;

• Collecting, entering, and organizing data on all field activities into the Section’s database;

• Working with private landowners and other land managers to access new monitoring and trapping locations, and coordinating with other agencies and organizations also managing these species;

• Conducting educational outreach activities and presentations upon request;

• Running safe-capture python training events for natural resource professionals and members of the public;

• Maintaining and entering vehicles logs, using a state purchasing card and submitting purchase receipts;

• Maintaining and tracking other equipment and firearms stored at the Fort Myers office;

• Responding to other wildlife conflict issues as needed.

This position will include extensive driving of state vehicles throughout the South and Southwest Regions (especially Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties), working independently, and requires an ability to trouble-shoot in the field. Knowledge of nonnative reptiles in Florida and experience handling nonnative wildlife kept as pets and potentially dangerous wildlife is preferred.

Additional duties may include:

• Documenting activities in written summary reports using basic statistical analyses, graphs, and tables;

• Serving on committees and teams as appropriate and attending meetings, workshops, and conferences;

• Helping to supervise volunteers and interns assisting with nonnative wildlife management activities;

• Assisting Section staff with public workshops and other stakeholder engagement;

• Assisting with preparation of educational and outreach activities and trainings on nonnative wildlife issues;

• Conduct other activities and tasks as necessary to support other HSC staff in the region.

It is expected that all FWC employees courteously assist Commission constituents to resolve questions or problems they may have on matters relating to the Commission, its programs, or fish and wildlife conservation in general; and garner public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida's citizens in a positive and proactive manner.

Knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position: 

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

• Ability to positively and effectively communicate with stakeholders and coworkers;

• Demonstrated skill in excellent customer service; 

• Familiarity with nonnative species issues;

• Ability to work well in a fast-paced work environment and adhere to time constraints;

• Ability to drive a 4WD truck off-road;

• Experience working with the public or stakeholder representatives;

• Ability to troubleshoot and assist the public while communicating over the phone.

Desired qualifications include:

• Experience handling wildlife;

• Experience with wildlife trapping techniques;

• Experience with public speaking;

• Demonstrated working knowledge and experience handling and caring for captive wildlife; 

• Ability to identify native and nonnative wildlife in Florida;

• Ability to multi-task as well as work without close supervision when needed;

• Computer experience (MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Excel and Outlook);

• Experience operating a motorized boat and driving a trailer;

• Ability to travel less than 25%.

OPS Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III - FWC (Lake City)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/27/2024 

OPS-Amount of Hours Worked Per Fiscal Year: 1,920

OPS Hourly Rate/FTE Biweekly Rate of Pay: $23.44

Supervisor: Samantha Johnston

Physical Address: North Central Regional Office. 3377 E. U.S. Highway 90, Lake City, FL 32055-8795.

Region: North Central

County: Columbia

Working hours: 8 am – 5 pm

Description of Duties:

This is a scientific and public-facing position to facilitate volunteer and participatory science engagement while leading conservation-based projects for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The successful applicant will serve as a Volunteer Program Biologist within the Public Access Services Office in the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation. This position is stationed at the North Central Regional Office in Lake City, FL, with opportunities to support projects across all divisions.

This position provides direct volunteer coordination for conservation projects, while working collaboratively with a wide range of biologists, land managers and stakeholders. The position supports projects on a wide range of species and habitats found in the north central region of Florida. The Volunteer Program Biologist designs, plans, implements, and monitors conservation projects that use volunteers; recruits, trains, and manages volunteers for these projects; and provides volunteer management support and participatory science best practices to FWC’s land managers and biologists. The Volunteer Program Biologist also networks partners to implement conservation projects that use volunteers on public and private lands.

This is an exciting opportunity for an outgoing, self-motivated individual committed to conservation. The successful candidate will have excellent organizational, leadership, community development, project design, and communication skills; and will demonstrate dedication to the FWC’s mission and conservation of Florida’s fish, wildlife, and habitat resources. Broad-based working knowledge of local ecology and a variety of Florida’s non-game species across multiple taxa is preferred.

Duties:

• Data Collection, Analysis and Synthesis:

  • Designs and/or implements survey protocols for threatened and endangered wildlife.

  • Monitors and evaluates long-term conservation projects that use volunteers, including participatory science projects.

  • Implements adaptive management strategies to achieve project goals.

• Coordination:

  • Designs, leads, and manages multiple concurrent conservation projects that involve volunteers.

  • Directs the recruitment, training, and management of volunteers and accurate volunteer documentation.

  • Ensures volunteers are appropriately trained to meet rigorous scientific protocol standards.

  • Develops and maintains partnerships with external agencies and organizations to implement conservation projects that use volunteers on public and private lands.

  • Plans and implements volunteer recognition events.

• Program Development and Administration:

  • Works closely with the FWC Volunteer Program Manager as well as the other regional Volunteer Program Biologists to develop and promote the FWC Volunteer Program.

  • Counsels FWC staff on volunteer and participatory science best management practices.

  • Participates as an active member of the FWC’s Volunteer Standing Team.

  • Participates as an active member of habitat and species working groups or strategic teams as needed.

  • Prepares quarterly and annual reports and other reports as needed.

  • Creates content for the FWC Volunteers Facebook page and volunteer newsletter.

  • Presents at regional and statewide meetings, workshops, and scientific conferences.

  • Assists with volunteer data management and tracking.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated experience in a volunteer leadership or management role.

• Broad-based working knowledge of a variety of non-game Florida species across multiple taxa.

• Knowledge of the ecosystems of Florida (or Southeastern United States), wildlife management practices, and conservation threats.

• Ability to analyze biological data and to report it in a scientific manner.

• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and to set and meet deadlines.

• Ability to communicate effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

• Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, both independently and as part of a team.

• Proven organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Effective oral and written communication skills including public speaking and preparing multi-media presentations.

• Ability to effectively use computer programs to conduct work duties (including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access).

• Knowledge of database management and/or GIS software programs.

• Knowledge of social media applications.

• Ability and willingness to travel overnight and during the day for projects, meetings, and workshops. Travel for day trips as well as overnight travel within a 200-mile radius and beyond the boundaries of the FWC’s North Central Region, as well as travel throughout the state and out of the state for conferences. Approximately 25%-50% of this position’s time includes travel, with flexibility to work weekends and evenings, as necessary.

• Ability to work outdoors conducting land management activities in remote locations and often in physically demanding circumstances.

• Ability to operate power tools safely, including chainsaws, and to train and supervise volunteers performing fieldwork to adhere to safety guidelines and precautions.

• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in life or physical science. Preferred with social science/business management coursework AND 1-3 years volunteer management experience. Experience in the field of wildlife biology can substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required college education.