Land Conservation Steward - TNC (Polk County, FL)

Interested in working with and learning from some of the best prescribed fire practitioners at a biodiversity hotspot with rare and endemic species that rely on fire management? Florida is recruiting a Land Conservation Steward at Tiger Creek Preserve in Babson Park - please see the overview below and detailed job posting. The position is posted through 1/5/2025 and will report to Ryann Blennerhassett. Please reach out if you have any questions. If you or someone you know is interested, please check out the links below and share them with your networks!

Job #56002

Internal Applicants​ through Peoplesoft.

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

Position Overview

The Land Conservation Steward is a staff member of the Stewardship and Field Programs Department (SAF) of The Nature Conservancy’s Florida Chapter (TNC). SAF is responsible for implementing and managing field conservation work (e.g., wildland fire management, invasive species management, and wetland restoration) across Florida and for stewardship of the Florida Chapter’s network of preserves. TNC’s Central Florida preserves are part of the state-wide Center for Conservation Initiatives (CCI) and include Tiger Creek (TCP), Disney Wilderness (DWP), Saddle Blanket Scrub (SBSP), Venus Flatwoods (VFP). The position is based out of Tiger Creek Preserve. These preserves and this position are integral to CCI and its mission. The Steward performs and participates in land management efforts with an emphasis on TNC preserves and with conservation partners in the surrounding landscape. They are responsible for ensuring that all stewardship-related activities comply with TNC’s, local, state, and federal requirements. They serve as part of SAF’s Central Florida Program (CFL) team and are supervised by the CFL Land Conservation Manager and works under the direction of the CFL Land Conservation Specialist.

Tyndall Shorebird Biologist - Audubon Florida (Panama City, FL)

Click here to view more details and apply!

Position Summary:

Audubon Florida seeks a Shorebird Biologist to support beach-nesting season bird conservation work in the Florida Panhandle.  The Shorebird Biologist will work remotely in the Panama City region of Bay and Gulf counties and travel to complete the majority of work on and around beaches and islands including Tyndall Critical Wildlife Area, islands and beaches and adjacent to or within Tyndall Air Force Base and Eglin Cape San Blas.

This is a full-time seasonal position working 40 hours a week between February 10 and August 10, 2025 including some weekend days and holidays, such as Memorial Day and Independence Day. The Shorebird Biologist will be responsible for performing beach-nesting bird monitoring and protection work primarily in Bay and Gulf counties, Florida.

Compensation: $17.00-$19.00 / hour

Essential Functions

• Breeding and nonbreeding shorebird surveys including nest searching for imperiled bird species including Snowy Plovers, Wilson’s Plovers, Black Skimmers, Least Terns, and American Oystercatchers.

• Posting symbolic fencing around beach-nesting bird sites and maintaining said posting;

• Monitoring nest sites weekly, at minimum, for evidence of disturbance or predation; Protecting sites from disturbance through predation management and game camera monitoring in cooperation with site managers and partner agencies

• Educating beachgoers about coastal bird species while encouraging compliance with posted areas and engaging in outreach to user groups.

• Collaborate with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) biologist to ensure all survey, monitoring, and posting is completed at sites.

• Post nesting sites with symbolic fencing as required or immediately when new nest sites are located.

• Survey sites weekly, conduct banded bird resighting, and enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database and other database as required. 

• Assist with other shorebird conservation and survey efforts.

• Communicate management needs to supervisor.

• Contribute to report writing as needed and submitting content for program-related publications in a variety of media.

• Contribute photographs and short stories about birds and bird stewardship for use on Audubon website and in social media.

• Responsible for periodic cleaning and maintenance of program vehicles, trailers, and UTVs as needed.

• Other job-related duties as assigned.

• Work alongside Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field preferred.

• 1 year/season demonstrated expertise in bird identification and performing demographic bird surveys using rigorous protocols is required. At least two years/seasons of experience in shorebird or seabird identification and rigorous surveys is required. Snowy Plover experience preferred.

• Comfort in pulling trailers.

• Comfort boating/kayaking in open-water conditions is required.

• Demonstrated success with accurate recording of field-collected data and data entry using MS Excel, MS Access, or online web portal data entry is required.

• Superior communication skills and demonstrated ability to work independently and with multiple stakeholder groups.

• Excellent problem-solving skills, and decision-making skills. One who possesses a high degree of integrity. Demonstrated experience working with external partners and volunteers.

• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to pass background check to access Air Force Base facilities.

• Must be able to lift up to 35lbs, and be able to traverse long distances, including miles across a beach carrying spotting scope, binoculars, and daypack with or without accommodation.

• Demonstrated experience with performing fieldwork in challenging coastal conditions especially in hot conditions.

• Must be able to work long days, weekends, and holidays as needed, in Florida summer field conditions.

• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) - USDA (Green Cove Springs)

OPEN DATE: December 6, 2024

CLOSING DATE: December 16, 2024

POSITION TITLE: Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)

TYPE OF POSITION: Term Appointment with possibility for Benefits, Excepted Service. Not to Exceed 13 months (may be extended up to 4 years)

WORK SCHEDULE: Fulltime – 40 hours per week

ANNOUNCEMENT #: WSER-06-2024-FL

SERIES/GRADE: GS-0404-6/7

FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL: GS-0404-07

NUMBER OF POSITIONS: 1

LOCATIONS: Green Cove Springs, Florida

SALARY: $44,117 – $63,733 per year (depending on GS level qualified for and relocation costs will not be paid for this position)

This is a Biological Science Technician (GS-06/07) position focusing on feral swine and beach predator trapping around the north-east Florida coast. For a full position description and instructions on how to apply, click HERE.

OPS Research Associate - FWC (St. Pete)

To learn more and apply, click here.

Closing date: 12/14/2024

Fish & Wildlife Research Institute

Research Associate – OPS Position

$20-22 per hour

100 8th Ave SE

Saint Petersburg, FL

 Ecosystem Assessment & Restoration

Fish & Wildlife Health

Research Associate- OPS 77907581

Saint Petersburg, Florida - $20-22 per hour 

Our organization:

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.

Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself.  The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Minimum Qualifications:
6 years professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program is required.

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; or two years of experience as a Research Assistant – FWC; or,

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; or,

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.

Requirements:

Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate. 

Office hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Not eligible for Telework.

Responses to qualifying questions should be verifiable by skills and/or experience stated on the profile application/resume.  Information should be provided regarding any gaps in employment.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

• Conduct carcass collection and transport between field and laboratory.

• Coordinate sample collection of herpetofaunal and avian diseases.

• Perform necropsies of herpetofaunal and avian species.

• Perform lab work geared towards disease surveillance of important reptile and avian pathogens.

• Lead laboratory inventory, upkeep, and organization.

• Maintain specimen inventory (fixed and frozen tissues).

• Maintain medical records and sample records.

• Provide for sample shipping following applicable shipping rules and regulations.

• Prepare final reports for projects and prepare information for popular audiences.

• Answer the Wildlife Health Hotline and online reporter forms for herpetofaunal and avian reports as needed and provide high quality customer service by responding to information requests and thoroughly documenting details of wildlife morbidity/mortality reports from the public, FWC staff, and other stakeholders.

• Assist with other terrestrial and aquatic wildlife disease investigations as needed

• Assist with purchases as needed.                       

• Participate in public outreach efforts as appropriate.

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

• Works independently, with colleagues, and cooperatively with partners from agencies, institutions, universities, and the public; may supervise technicians, volunteers, and interns on research projects.

• Perform other administrative duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
The entry-level knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) needed to perform job duties are:

Knowledge of: wildlife ecology, animal health/disease concepts; methods of relevant field and laboratory data collection; and general procedures, techniques and equipment used in biological laboratory testing and analysis.

Skill in: use of personal computers, spreadsheet, and word processing software, particularly Microsoft Office products; ability to collect biological data and organize data efficiently in electronic databases; laboratory skills including organization of laboratory materials and diagnostic specimens; proper handling of chemicals; biosafety; adherence to protocols and shipping of specimens per state/federal regulations; and excellent time management.

Ability to: understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; perform detailed work accurately and independently; utilize problem solving techniques; lift up to 50 lbs.; plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments with others; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships; maintain a valid driver’s license; and work effectively both independently and as a member of a team.

FTE Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - FWC (Tallahassee)

Click here to learn more and apply!

Anticipated Vacancy

Posting Closing Date: 12/13/2024 

Working hours: Typically M-F, 8 AM – 5 PM, though hours may vary with workload and may require work on weekends or holidays

List of any subordinates supervised: 0 to 3 staff

Residency requirement: To Be Determined

Address: 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee Florida 32399

County: Leon

Level of Education:

Minimum of Bachelor’s degree preferred in biology, wildlife, or fisheries management; zoology; environmental sciences or other closely related curriculum and three years of professional experience; or a Graduate Degree and two years of professional experience.

Salary: $1,923.08 bi-weekly

Description of duties:

The Division of Habitat and Species Conservation is comprised of six sections and two offices.  This is an exciting opportunity to join the Imperiled Species Management Section’s (ISM) Manatee Management Program! This dynamic role offers the opportunity to support vital manatee conservation efforts through diverse and evolving data management responsibilities. Key duties include collecting, analyzing, and applying data to inform conservation decisions, as well as leading GIS-related tasks for the program. Additionally, you will work alongside manatee management staff on exciting projects related to habitat monitoring and evaluating Manatee Protection Plans. If you’re passionate about wildlife and data-driven conservation, this position offers a unique chance to make a real impact.

Responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

1. Assists with the creation, maintenance and quality control of multiple shapefiles, layers and geodatabases, develops maps and data summaries using ArcGIS, GoogleEarth, and MS Excel for management purposes.

2. Collaborates with state and federal wildlife management staff on priority data collection needs for long-term manatee conservation;

3. Designs, manages and implements project-specific, management-related data collection activities associated with manatee speed zones, protection plans and habitat (conducts aerial survey, boat-based survey, land-based survey, etc.) often serving as project lead, contract manager, or liaison with partners;

4. Coordinates with various agency staff to analyze and apply data in support of manatee habitat and protection plan review and development;

5. Prepares, publishes and presents project results through internal (reports and management plans) and external (peer-reviewed publications, professional and public meeting, etc.) outlets;

6. Meets regularly with local, state, and federal partners and stakeholder groups to discuss manatee protection and boat facility siting plans, warm-water habitat, and other conservation efforts;

7. Performs field and site visits related to manatee protections and habitat as necessary;

8. Participates in response efforts, necropsies, and other field work assignments as needed; and

9. Maintains all assigned equipment in safe working condition. 

10. Performs other project-related duties and tasks as directed. 

Qualifications:

• Candidates with previous aerial and/or marine mammal survey experience and practical knowledge of systematic data-collection techniques is desired. 

• Qualified applicants should have a background in aquatic resource or imperiled species management.

• This position requires administrative, communication, and computer skills, and the review, evaluation, interpretation, and presentation of biological data.

• Qualified applicants will need to be highly organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated, and adept at problem-solving and time management to succeed in this position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Demonstrated experience working with and managing data through ESRI programs such as ArcPro, ArcGIS Online, and others.

• Knowledge of wildlife conservation, management techniques, and ecology;

• Knowledge of terminology, scientific method, principles, and techniques used in biological research, analyses or assessment;

• Knowledge of the methods of data collection, particularly for imperiled or listed species;

• Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work assignments to meet deadlines;

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including public speaking and technical report writing;

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

• Skilled at leading internal and external teams, managing staff, interns, or volunteers, and oversight of vendors or contractors

  • Proficiency in MS software applications: Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required, and Google Earth Pro, SharePoint preferred;

• Ability to manage adverse environmental conditions while working independently in the field; and

• Ability to travel, sometimes overnight, throughout the state for meetings and field work.

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 point-of-view. 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.

Application packets must be submitted through the State of Florida’s official employment site (https://peoplefirst.myflorida.com/) and must include a cover letter and resume in addition to the state application. Application packets without a cover letter, resume and state application will not be considered for the position.

Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) - USDA (Sarasota)

OPEN DATE:                        11/21/2024                   

CLOSING DATE:                 11/28/2024

POSITION TITLE:              Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)

TYPE OF POSITION:         Term Appointment with possibility for Benefits, Excepted Service.  Not to Exceed 13 months (may be extended up to 4 years)

 WORK SCHEDULE:           Fulltime – 40 hours per week

 ANNOUNCEMENT #:         WSER-4208-2024-FL

 SERIES/GRADE:                 GS-0404-5/6

FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL:                                   GS-0404-06

NUMBER OF  POSITIONS:                           1

 LOCATIONS:                 Sarasota County, FL 

 SALARY:                       $39,576 – $57,354 per year (depending on GS level qualified for and relocation costs will not be paid for this position)

Click HERE for a complete description of the position and instructions on how to apply

Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist II - FWC (Wewahitchka, FL)

To apply and view more details, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 12/01/2024 

Biweekly Salary: $1,538.46 biweekly, $40,000 annually

County: Gulf

Working hours: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm (CST), Monday through Friday, may require some night or weekend duty. Occasional overnight travel is required.

Supervisor: Nathan Kastenholz 

List of any subordinates supervised: None

Residency requirement: Must reside within a 25-mile radius of Apalachicola River WEA.

Minimum Level of Education – Preferred bachelor’s degree in a life or physical science. Four years of direct experience can substitute for a bachelor’s degree in a life or physical science.

License Requirements: Minimum Florida Class E Driver’s License

Description of duties: This Career Service position works with a team of biologists and technicians to manage natural communities and wildlife populations on the Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area. The incumbent, under the direct supervision of the Lead Area Wildlife Biologist, assists with the planning, development, and implementation of natural community maintenance and restoration and wildlife management programs on the area. This includes preparing various plans and documents that guide multiple-use management; planning and assisting with the application of land management treatments including prescribed burning, timber thinning, mowing and chopping, groundcover restoration, chemical control of invasive plants, and maintenance of wildlife openings; surveying and monitoring game, locally important, and imperiled wildlife species using scientifically accepted protocols; conducting vegetation surveys including those of imperiled native flora and monitoring vegetation response to habitat manipulations; planning and implementing construction and maintenance of public use infrastructure including roads, parking areas, kiosks, picnic facilities, trails, boat ramps, water control structures, fences, gates, and equipment maintenance/storage compound as needed; assisting with management of public recreational use programs; managing public hunts and collection of biological data; assisting with wildlife disease surveillance; analyzing and reporting data to direct future management decisions; assisting and collaborating with staff on other conservation areas; and providing technical assistance to individuals, organizations, and other government agencies regarding wildlife and habitat management. In addition, the incumbent will participate in team meetings, seminars and workshops relating to wildlife resource management and training opportunities and will provide presentations to conservation organizations, schools, and civic groups.  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

▪  Knowledge and experience in conducting wildlife surveys including game and                                        

   nongame species, analyzing data, and summarizing results

▪  Knowledge and experience with the application of prescribed fire

▪  Knowledge and experience with chemical or mechanical control of invasive

   exotic vegetation

▪  Knowledge of ArcGIS and GPS and its application.

▪  Ability to operate and maintain 4WD vehicles, tractors, farm implements, ATVs, and

   outboard motors

▪  Ability to work independently and in a variety of weather conditions

▪  Ability to work efficiently in a team of diverse people with differing backgrounds

▪  Ability to plan and prioritize work assignments, multi-task

▪  Ability to communicate effectively with external and internal customers

▪  Ability to perform quantitative analysis of scientific data

▪  Skill in use of Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word, Excel, etc.)