Wading Bird Research Specialist - Audubon Florida (Tavernier, FL)

Apply online at:
https://audubon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Audubon/job/Tavernier-FL/Wading-Bird-Research-Specialist_JR699

Position Summary

The Wading Bird Research Specialist will manage multiple field projects including, but not exclusive to, the capturing, banding, and tracking of Roseate spoonbills, organizing, and leading physical surveys of nesting colonies to quantify roseate spoonbill nesting success and gather nesting numbers of all waterbird species in those colonies.  Colonies are accessed using powerboats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks and on foot (wading).  The Specialist will also manage the collection and entering biological data from Florida Bay and the Everglades.  This role consists of fieldwork and work done in the office at the Everglades Science Center. The standard work week is 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday, with occasional work on the weekend.

The Specialist has a supervisory role and will train seasonal technicians (usually two direct reports) and coach them as to where and how best to assist in accomplishing these tasks to reach operational targets. The overall operation at ESC is accomplished through an integrated network of several data collection teams (hydrology, vegetation, prey fish and wading bird teams with the Specialist acting as lead on the wading bird team).  Collecting the data will rely on a great deal of teamwork on the part of the Specialists’ ability to integrate with these other tasks by being flexible with not only their own time but the seasonal employees’ time as well.  The Specialist will be asked to assist with other projects associated with wading bird ecology in Florida Bay.

Compensation:

$57,000 / year

Essential Functions

• Capture birds from mangrove habitats to place leg bands and tracking devices on the birds. 

• Develop best techniques and practices of using trail cameras to replace physical surveys of spoonbill nesting colonies. 

• Collect data autonomously; identify, preserve, and catalog data in a database to be statistically analyzed for use in producing Center products such as contract deliverables, reports, and scientific publications.

• Prepare and maintain detailed records, log, and summarize reports of all procedures and results including graphs, scientific calculations, and statistical analysis charting.

• Responsible for creating, updating, and maintaining procedures for various tasks such as, quality control/quality assurance and storage protocol.

• Supervise, train, and coach seasonal technicians and a direct report to achieve our operational goals by planning their individual skill set. 

• Lead and co-lead on the development of hypotheses based on the data collected that will be statistically tested, leading to scientific publications that the specialist will either author or co-author with other team members. 

• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (hydrology, vegetation, and fish) of biologists and research associates to meet operational targets of the organization by developing and accessing Everglades restoration projects. 

• Participate in group projects to protect and maintain the base facility and improve operations (e.g. lead evacuation team when under threat of hurricane)

• Responsible for the repair, maintenance and replacement of all field gear assigned to the bird team.

• Give educational presentations to educate the community and stakeholders.

• Participate in grant writing to help expand the program and research.   

• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field (or equivalent in field experience) required; understanding and respect of the scientific method is paramount.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience working in marine, estuarine, or wetlands ecology environments, or working with collecting ornithological data.

• Computer experience and familiarity with spreadsheet, statistical analyses and database management programs are required.

• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills that can be adapted to reach a wide range of individuals and used to build consensus.  Ability to synthesize and communicate technical and complex information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

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

• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

• Experience in scientific writing and communications.

• Strong organization skills and flexibility in planning to meet the demands of the birds’ schedule (i.e., the birds determine the schedule not preplanned calendar appointments)

• Experience in Florida’s estuaries, mangrove forests, and/or coastal wetlands is a plus.

• Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well autonomously in the field.

• Physical requirements include the ability to work long hours in the field in sub-tropical wetland environments with or without accommodation, exposed to the harsh South Florida environment (extreme heat, biting insects, wading in water or mud), sometimes alone and without a communications signal while adhering to safety techniques detailed in the Audubon Safety Manual.  

• Ability and willingness to work in murky waters that serve as the home for potentially dangerous wildlife such as alligators and venomous snakes.

• Some projects may involve travel in helicopters and small, fixed-wing aircraft.

• Must have operating experience with small boats and other vehicles.

• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical equipment such as trucks and boats (e.g. jump start a vehicle or change a flat tire).

• Willingness to occasionally work on weekends.

• Valid driver’s license required.

Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III - FWC (West Palm Beach, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 03/25/2025 

Salary: $1,730.77 bi-weekly + benefits

Phone: (561) 624-6989

Supervisor: Danielle Devine 

List of any subordinates supervised: 2 Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist II positions, 2 Fish & Wildlife Technician positions, and seasonal staff as needed.

Working hours: 8-5 M-F, evening and weekends as required.

Position Address: 11835 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33412

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 is seeking a highly motivated biologist to lead a team of Wildlife and Habitat Management Section staff on the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area (WMA) located in Palm Beach County, Florida. This Lead Area Biologist position will work as a team with other areas within the District or South Region to accomplish land management activities including prescribed burning and nonnative plant control.

In addition, responsibilities include identifying, planning, and implementing effective projects consistent with the Management Plan; developing and implementing annual budgets and work plans; ensuring equipment and infrastructure is properly maintained; providing oversight and participating in hydrologic and vegetative restoration projects; preparing for and conducting wildlife surveys; supporting and conducting public hunts on the WMA, as well as on the Stormwater Treatment Area(s) as needed; developing and promoting non-hunting recreational use; and maintaining land management and wildlife survey databases using ArcGIS.

The successful candidate will supervise four full-time staff of two Fish & Wildlife Technicians and two Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist II positions and will supervise seasonal hunter check station operators as necessary. The successful candidate must occasionally attend regional and divisional meetings, various trainings, and assist on other management areas as needed. Employee housing option (RV pad and hookups) may be available.

About the WMA: The J.W. Corbett WMA (60,498 acres) is home to a variety of wildlife, including red-cockaded woodpecker, American alligator, otter, sandhill crane, and white-tailed deer. Primary habitats include pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, and cypress swamps. Prescribed burning and invasive plant control are two of the primary tools used to manage and improve the property for wildlife.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of Florida ecosystems and natural processes, wildlife ecology, ecosystem management, water management, fire ecology and plant succession. Applied knowledge of the principles and practices of habitat management and restoration, including prescribed fire, mechanical and chemical vegetation control, and invasive plant control. Wildlife habitat survey and inventory knowledge; ability to collect and analyze biological data. Ability to track spending and monitor budgets. Ability to create scientific reports free of grammatical and typographical errors. Ability to interact with stakeholders, co-workers, and cooperating agencies in a professional manner. Knowledge of hunting as a wildlife management tool. Familiarity with infrastructure development and maintenance. Familiarity with outdoor recreational activities and the facilities needed to support them. Proficiency with typical Windows applications and ArcGIS. Ability to effectively supervise staff. Well-organized, able to communicate effectively, and able to supervise and delegate tasks effectively. Ability to oversee multiple projects and set priorities. Incumbent must possess the initiative, motivation, and self-direction necessary to work productively independently as well as function as a member of a team. Ability to work outside under inclement weather conditions and operate specialized equipment (e.g., swamp buggy, ATV, UTV, tractor).

Preferred Qualifications: At least 2 years of experience in habitat and/or wildlife management. Supervisory experience. Florida Prescribed Burn Manager. Strong familiarity with both native and invasive vegetation in South Florida. Experience with habitat restoration work, wildlife surveys, and prescribed burning.  A Bachelor of Science degree with a major in one of the life/physical sciences if preferred.

Residency requirement: Must live within 25 miles of J.W. Corbett WMA. Employee housing option (RV pad and hookups) may be available.

Minimum Qualifications: Six years of experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the six years of required experience.

Other requirements: Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Must possess and maintain a valid minimum Class E State of Florida driver’s license. Occasional overnight travel is required.

Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - FWC (West Palm Beach, FL)

To apply and view more information, click here.

Posting Closing Date: 02/21/2025 

 Pay rate:  $54,580.00 annually ($2,099.24 biweekly)

Position Address: 8535 Northlake Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33412 

Phone:(561) 625-5122

Supervisor: Paul Scharine  Email: Paul.Scharine@MyFWC.com

Duties and Responsibilities: 

This is a Career Service position responsible for developing rules and rule-related publications and coordinating with cooperators and stakeholders with regard to public hunting and other public use on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), Wildlife and Environmental Areas (WEAs) and Public Small Game Hunting Areas (PSGHAs) within the Commission’s South Region.  This position will coordinate closely with the Regional Wildlife Biologist and other Regional/WMA staff to administer public hunting and public use programs in the region.

The incumbent:

Coordinates the process for securing input from agency/WMA cooperators regarding public hunting and other public uses on all WMAs, WEAs and PSGHAs.  Compiles input and works with Regional/WMA staff to resolve problems and / or develop rule change proposals as necessary.  Works with the Regional Director to develop rule change proposals submitted via the public input process.  Coordinates with other FWC Divisions, Offices and Institutes (DOIs) to develop communication strategies to prepare and distribute information that will effectively promote hunting opportunities; raise awareness of programs, activities, and new rules; and improve acceptance of hunting rules and regulations.

Coordinates with cooperators, hunters and other stakeholders to facilitate open communication, implement new hunting opportunities and resolve problems associated with public hunting programs and/or rules on WMAs, WEAs and PSGHAs.  Coordinates with Regional/WMA staff to conduct workshops and other meetings with cooperators, stakeholders and organized stakeholder groups when and where necessary to address hunting-related issues.  Develop and implement effective communication strategies targeting FWC staff, particularly field staff, across all FWC DOIs, to fully inform staff of new hunting opportunities. 

Is responsible for developing hunting-related publications including brochures/maps for WMAs and other public hunting areas.  Coordinates the review and editing of other hunting-related documents such as quota hunt and special-opportunity hunt applications and the statewide hunting regulations manual. 

Coordinates with administrative staff to develop and maintain contracts, leases and cooperative agreements that facilitate hunting programs on public hunting areas in the South Region. 

Performs other related work as assigned.

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.

Commission employees are responsible for following the provisions and requirements in Section 215.422, Florida Statutes, related to the Comptroller’s 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.

Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in the biological sciences and five years of professional biological experience. A master’s degree in wildlife science, natural resource management, ecology, or similar with five years of professional biological experience is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationship with others.

• Ability to work and make appropriate decisions independently.

• Ability to analyze complex issues and problems and develop innovative, efficacious solutions.

• Skills and knowledge of Geographic Information Systems sufficient to maintain and update basic property maps

• Ability to determine work priorities, elicit cooperation as necessary to achieve objectives and ensure proper and timely completion of program assignments and activities.

• Ability to understand, comply with, and apply rules, policies, and procedures applicable to the conduct of a Commission employee.

• Knowledge of correct English composition, grammar, and punctuation.

• Ability to use computer word-processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

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

To apply and view more details, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 03/02/2025 

Salary:  $1,730.77 biweekly plus benefits

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

Supervisor : Steve Glass

List of any subordinates supervised:  Three fulltime OPS Fish/Wildlife Technicians.

Residency requirement: Must live within a 25-mile radius of the entrance to T.M. Goodwin WMA. On-site housing available (30 foot travel trailer).

Description of duties:

An exciting and challenging opportunity exists to manage one of Florida’s premier waterfowl management areas and to lead a team of fish and wildlife technicians at the T.M. Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area (WMA) in Brevard County, FL. This position serves as the Lead Area Biologist managing over 6,400 acres of impoundments and freshwater reservoirs for waterfowl, wading birds, and other wetland dependent species. The successful candidate must have a background and strong interest in waterfowl ecology and wetland habitat management. The Lead Area Biologist is responsible for coordinating and implementing all aspects of management of the WMA including water level manipulation, conducting mechanical and chemical vegetation control (mowing, herbicide, etc.), and application of prescribed fire to manage habitats and promote favorable conditions for beneficial wetland/moist-soil vegetation. Water level management is achieved through a combination of riser-board culverts, gravity fed canals and pumps to provide optimal habitat conditions for wintering waterfowl and other wetland dependent species. This position is responsible for all aspects of running the WMA including project, infrastructure, and public hunt management; reporting; purchasing and budget management; GIS; and data entry. 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.  The successful candidate will oversee the operation of the hunter check station to collect biological data of hunter harvested game.

Additionally, the incumbent will have responsibilities at the Fort Drum WMA to include, but not be limited to, interacting with the lead agency staff, supervising managed hunts, providing habitat management recommendations, project implementation, and conducting surveys such as deer spotlight counts and invasive/exotic plant surveys. Also, the incumbent will be responsible for the habitat management, including implementing the prescribed burn and exotic plant treatment programs on the Indian River County Public Shooting Range

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledgeable in principles of wildlife ecology and habitat management.

• Knowledge of moist-soil management practices.

• Knowledge of hydrologic control structures including riser-board and flap gate culverts, and pumps is preferred.

• Knowledge of the principles of fire ecology and the application of prescribed fire.

• Knowledge in chemical and mechanical control of undesirable vegetation.

• Knowledge and experience in supervising multiple team members.

• Knowledge in conducting wildlife surveys and summarizing biological data.

• Knowledge of outdoor recreational activities including hunting and fishing.

• Proficient with Windows and Microsoft Office applications.

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

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

• Able to communicate effectively with team members, agency partners, and the public.

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

• Ability to organize, prioritize, and plan work assignments and multi-task.

• Ability to identify common and imperiled wildlife species, including migratory game birds.

• Ability to operate outdoors under harsh weather conditions.

• Ability to operate vehicles, ATVs, trailers, and boats, including airboats.

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 and included in Florida Retirement System (FRS)

Other Requirements:  Will be required to obtain and maintain a current and valid Florida Driver’s license. 

2 years of supervisory experience and experience with wetland/moist-soil management is preferred.

Incumbent will be required to complete prescribed burning training to obtain and maintain a FL certified prescribed burn manager certificate within 24 months of hire date.

Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal history check. The criminal history check must be completed prior to or within the first three days of employment.

Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist III - FWC (Bartow, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 03/05/2025 

Salary: $1,730.77 bi-weekly

Working hours: 40hrs/week

Supervisor: Brittany Lay

List of any subordinates supervised: None

Address: 2001 Homeland-Garfield Rd, Bartow, FL 33830

Residency requirement: None

Level of Education: Preferred bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the life or physical sciences and two years of professional biological experience; or a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the life or physical sciences and one year of professional biological experience.

 *Employment is contingent upon a successful completion of a Level 1 background check*

*In addition to submitting a completed State of Florida electronic application and completing the qualifying questions, applicants must attach a cover letter and up to date resume. Submitted cover letter should at a minimum explain your interest in working in invasive plant management and identify your most relevant skills and experience.  Incomplete applications will not be considered. *

Description of position:

This position is responsible for assessing aquatic plant populations, recommending and permitting aquatic and upland plant control programs for both the private and public sectors, attending meetings, providing educational and informational services, scheduling contractor work schedules, monitoring aquatic plant control operations, providing extension services upon request, and conducting investigations for violations of the aquatic plant permitting rules.  Persons applying for this position should be comfortable working independently in the field, have experience trailering and operating boats and ATVs and have experience in plant identification and the control of invasive species. Experience with public speaking or presenting information to the public and/or professional peer groups is preferred.

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:

The ideal candidate must possess:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the capacity to collaborate effectively with team members and engage professionally with the public.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while adhering to regulatory deadlines.

• Consistently demonstrate integrity, respect, and accountability in all interactions.

• Knowledge of principles and best practices related to plant management.

• Ability to comprehend and apply relevant rules, regulations, policies, and procedures governing plant management.

• Familiarity with challenges related to non-native and invasive plant species.

• Experience in public speaking and working with community members, stakeholders, and/or representatives.

• Ability to travel throughout Florida for extended periods as required on occasion.

Fish and Wildlife Technician - FWC (Haines City, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 02/23/2025 

Address Creek Ranch Wildlife Management Area, 13300 Lake Hatchineha Rd.Haines City, FL 33844

Phone: 863-661-3367

Supervisor: Shawn Kelly

Starting pay rate: $18.23/ hr.

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

List of any subordinates supervised: N/A

Residency requirement: Incumbent is required to live in the state residence on Creek Ranch WMA

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

The Division of Habitat and Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices. An exciting opportunity exists for a Fish and Wildlife Technician to join a team of employees within the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section in managing Creek Ranch WMA and the Lake Wales Ridge WEA in Polk County. This position will also assist in managing cooperative areas including Lake Marion Creek, Walk-in-the-Water, Arbuckle WMAs and the Lake Hatchineha Unit of the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge. FWC’s Southwest Region is seeking a motivated applicant that is willing and able to work outdoors in a variety of conditions throughout the year in fulfillment of their job responsibilities. Responsibilities include the restoration and maintenance of wildlife habitat by applying prescribed fire, mechanical treatments, and non-native invasive plant control throughout the area. The employee will also be a key member of the WMA prescribed burn team. Additional duties include operating game check stations, operating, maintaining and repairing area equipment and vehicles including trucks, tractors, ATVs, and heavy equipment in accordance with manufacturer and industry recommendations. Incumbent also must possess the ability to troubleshoot the repairs of pumps, motors and heavy equipment.

This position also assists biologists with surveying and monitoring of threatened and locally important species, resource inventories, and public hunt management. Assists in the planning, development and maintenance of projects facilitating public use including parking and road construction, culvert installation, trash pickup, building maintenance and fence, gate and sign construction and maintenance. Interacts professionally with the public and partners providing accurate information concerning wildlife, area conditions, rules and regulations. Attends regional and divisional meetings and training programs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to operate, maintain and repair heavy equipment and associated implements

• Ability to work independently

• 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 principles and practices

• Basic use of personal computers

• Ability to operate outdoors under inclement weather conditions

• Ability to frequently push, pull and/or carry more than 40 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.

Additional Requirements – Must possess or obtain valid Class A Florida Commercial Driver’s License within first 270 days of employment. Position subject to random drug screening. Hiring contingent on successful completion of a background check. Employee allowed to work a maximum of 1,920 hours per fiscal year (to be prorated based upon hiring date). Occasional overnight travel required.

Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site Permitting Biologist - FWC (Tallahassee, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 03/06/2025 

Bi-Weekly Salary: $1,923.08 bi-weekly + benefits

Working Hours:  8:00am – 5:00pm, Monday-Friday

Supervisor: Michelina Dziadzio

% Travel Required:  +/- 25%

Licensure, Certification or Registration Requirements: Valid Driver’s License

Desired Minimum Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife or fisheries management, zoology, environmental sciences or other closely related curriculum, graduate degree and two years of professional experience preferred.  Candidates must have experience writing and reviewing technical documents, must have experience with imperiled species or their habitats, and should be familiar with land use or wildlife permits.  Successful candidates will have experience collaborating with entities of varying interests and be able to capably manage conflict with excellent communication skills.  Above all, the successful applicant will be enthusiastic, self-motivated, organized, and have a commitment to natural resource conservation and excellence in customer service. 

In addition to submitting an electronic State of Florida employment application and completing the qualifying questions, please attach a resume and cover letter. This letter should at minimum explain your interest in the specific position and identify your most relevant skills and experiences.

Description of Duties:

The Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site Permitting Biologist has the opportunity to work on a dynamic team and positively affect gopher tortoise conservation throughout Florida. The position is located within the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Division of Habitat and Species Conservation,

in the Office of Conservation Planning Services.  The position is a critical member of FWC’s gopher tortoise conservation program, working to conserve Florida’s only native tortoise and is responsible for gopher tortoise recipient site conservation through permitting. This is an office-based position with field work opportunities.

The main function of this position is to provide expertise and coordinate gopher tortoise recipient site permitting statewide. This position will review both public and private recipient site applications, will work closely with Compliance and Monitoring staff working on pre-application materials and site visits, and will have primary responsibility for the review and processing of recipient site permit applications in conjunction with their team. This position will review area management plans, work with Land Conservation and Planning (LCP) staff on easement and title review, work with Landowner Assistance Program staff on the review of vegetation and population monitoring surveys, and help draft MOU/MOA’s as needed. This position will be the primary point of contact for customers on recipient site issues once they submit their applications, and responsive customer service to applicants, landowners, and their representatives is a key responsibility. They may also attend pre-application and monitoring site visits at all types of recipient sites as needed.

The Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site Permitting Biologist may be asked to facilitate team meetings, provide recommendations for improving gopher tortoise regulations and management, create and maintain training materials, train new staff, as well as review, evaluate, and process applications for other permit types as time allows. The selected candidate will conduct site visits to areas protected for gopher tortoise conservation, determine habitat suitability for areas that could be protected in the future, review reports, serve as a backup for other biological staff as needed, and lead priority projects. The selected candidate will serve a key role in shaping changes to Florida’s gopher tortoise conservation program, including development and implementation of a new online permitting system and expansion of areas protected for gopher tortoise conservation.

The selected candidate will work across FWC divisions and with other federal, state, regional, and local agencies, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and others as appropriate to implement the Gopher Tortoise Management Plan. They will assist and collaborate with regional and statewide staff and provide technical assistance to individuals, organizations, and other government agencies regarding wildlife and habitat management including gopher tortoise conservation. This position is responsible for informing and responding to the public, partners, and FWC staff on gopher tortoise and commensal biology, conservation, research, and rules and regulations. This position will stay informed of current and relevant science and regulations regarding gopher tortoises and commensals; participate in team meetings, seminars, outreach events, and workshops relating to wildlife resource management; and attend other training opportunities within and outside the FWC. The position will require occasional overnight travel and working outside of normal business hours.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Well-organized, detail-oriented, able to oversee multiple projects simultaneously, and able to set priorities and complete tasks on schedule.

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

• Knowledge of Florida's upland ecosystems and management of these ecosystems, with emphasis on the needs of the gopher tortoise and its management.

• Strong data management skills, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite, ArcGIS, ArcPro, Adobe Acrobat, and GPS Units.

• Strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills that include the ability to represent agency viewpoints without personal conflicts, as well as the ability to listen and effectively and tactfully present information to and communicate with landowners, land managers, foresters, and other staff.

• Strong written and oral communication skills to work with internal and external customers; ability to present technical information to various audiences.

• Ability to interact with displeased or contentious members of the public in a professional, tactful, and courteous manner.

• Ability to read and interpret aerial, habitat, and soils maps.

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

• Ability to travel and spend significant time outdoors in Florida climate conditions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Preferred):

• Knowledge of Florida landcover classification systems (e.g., FLUCCS, FLCS) and ability to interpret land cover, soils, and survey maps.

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

• Knowledge of southeastern ecosystems flora and fauna.

• Knowledge of and ability to identify invasive and exotic plants.   

• Knowledge and understanding of conservation easements, permitting, and a willingness to expand personal knowledge of the topic.

• Experience in communicating complex information to the public and responding to public inquiries.

• Experience with permitting.

• Ability to use ATVs, 4-wheel drive trucks and handle off-road conditions.