Marine Invertebrate Collection Manager (F&W Biological Scientist II) - FWC (St. Petersburg, FL)

To apply and view more details, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 04/03/2025 

$20 per hour (DOE)

100 8th Ave

Minimum Qualifications:
5 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program; OR

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; OR

A master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications:
Familiar with genetic and molecular laboratory methods and their statistical analysis; collection database software (Specify7); and identification of marine species.

Interest and experience in photography, science communication, invertebrate taxonomy, and museum work.

A bachelor’s degree and past or present graduate coursework in the biological sciences.

 

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

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

Office hours are roughly 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Not eligible for Telework. This is a full-time position (40 hrs/week).


Position Overview and Responsibilities:

Managing biological specimen collections.  Processing, identifying, and cataloging specimens and associated assets into the Specimen Information Services (Florida Biodiversity Collection).  Responsible for taxonomic identification, phylogenetic arrangement and species description.  Responsible for proper maintenance of the collection and collection facilities and the requisition and storage of all necessary supplies.  Maintains a complete inventory of collection, field, visitor, volunteer and loan data on computer database system(s). Responsible for loan processing and record keeping. Handles requests for information, retrieving materials in response to research requests, packaging and shipping specimen loans, and preparing reports. Assists with photography and other digital capture of specimens as requested.

Works under the direction of the Curator. Recruits, trains, oversees and directs the activities of assigned volunteers, interns, and OPS staff.  Monitors use of the collection.  Identifies and contacts potential donors and grant programs, conferring with Curator on funding opportunities.  Maintains a professional working environment that promotes teamwork within and across Specimen Information Services, all FWRI Sections, FWC Divisions, and stakeholders public and private. Stays current on collections’ safety procedures. Performs daily walk through of collection to check for security and maintenance issues including insect/pest presence, environmental concerns such as water leaks, and collection maintenance. Communicates findings with Curator and performs follow through if necessary work is to be performed.

Works with the educational and scientific communities regarding requests for information and specimen loans and donations. Develops keys and data sheets for use by institute personnel and actively encourages vouchering of research specimens and the use of the collection by scientists, educators and the public. Assists researchers with proper specimen fixation and preservation as requested.  Helps greet visitors to the collection and direct their inquiries to the appropriate area.  Assists with or gives tours of the collection as requested and appropriate. Develops, promotes, and participates in public outreach activities, including large annual events (e.g. MarineQuest) and smaller talks, presentations, and demonstrations. Prepares for special events such as public presentations, exhibit development and the production of educational materials and programs. Organizes, leads and participates in fieldwork to collect specimens and data for scientific, research and educational purposes. Assists other staff as requested and approved by supervisor. May serve on various committees as required and assigned.  Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of the ecology and systematics of Florida’s marine animals

  • Knowledge of personal computers and programs for word processing and data storage retrieval, analysis, and visualization

  • Knowledge of standard curatorial procedures for the accessioning, cataloging and maintenance of biological specimens, and design of educational materials and exhibits

  • Ability to communicate effectively in writing and speech, including writing technical reports and grant applications

  • Ability to answer questions and verbally communicate scientific concepts to diverse audiences (e.g. children, students, the public) in varied settings (e.g. in person, digital, formal, informal)

  • Ability to supervise people and establish and maintain amicable, professional relationships

  • Ability to formulate policies and procedures relating to the Collection

  • Ability to learn and apply procedures relating to safety, hazardous waste material, and collection and collection facilities maintenance

  • Ability to collect data and utilize problem solving techniques

  • Ability to lift 50 pounds on a consistent basis, and frequently lift and carry small loads overhead and up and down ladders

  • Ability to gently hold and manipulate small, delicate specimens using forceps and other tools with no or minimal damage

  • Ability to work independently

  • Skill in using microscopes and other equipment customary for field and laboratory collections work

  • Skill in storing and organizing an inventory of various supplies and specimens (i.e. wet- and dry-preserved invertebrates)

  • Possess strong organizational skills and high attention to detail

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

To apply and view more information, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 04/15/2025 

Salary: Anticipated salary $45,000 annual plus benefits

Location:  Blackwater Fisheries Center, 8384 Fish Hatchery Rd. Holt, FL 32564 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • 6 years of professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program is required. 

  • A bachelor's degree with a major in biological or physical science can substitute for 4 years of professional experience.

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

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in biological or physical science - preferably in the fisheries/aquaculture science field and two years of professional experience in an aquaculture setting; or

  • A master's degree from an accredited college or university in biological or physical science, preferably in the fisheries/aquaculture science field.

  • Previous aquaculture experience in culturing and rearing fish intensively (indoor tanks) and extensively (outdoor ponds).

 

Requirements:

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

  • Typical hours are from 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Central Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Not eligible for Telework.  This position requires periodic work time on weekends, evenings, and in excess of 8 hours/day. Occasional overnight travel may be required.

  • Ability to work outdoors in the heat or cold and in water for extended periods to accomplish job duties.

  

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

FWC seeks a dynamic individual to work in a fish hatchery production setting at Blackwater Fisheries Center.    Candidates should possess strong skills and documentable experience in two or more of the following fields:  agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries science/management, aquatic ecology, natural resources management, research, hydrology, entomology, ichthyology, limnology, engineering, basic statistics, and population dynamics. 

Daily activities will include planning, leading, and executing the intensive and extensive production of freshwater fish to meet variable annual goals, including pond allocation and management,  monitoring, and harvesting/stocking; coordination with local and regional staff will be required.  Job duties include routine equipment, building, and facilities maintenance.  This position has direct and indirect supervisory responsibility for 1 Fish & Wildlife Biologist II and 1 OPS Fisheries Technician. 

Rent free housing on-site is available but not required with this position.  Water and trash pick-up is included.  Employee is responsible for monthly electric charges and any internet/satellite service if desired.
 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
 

  • Knowledge of aquaculture and pond management

  • Knowledge of data analysis techniques relevant to aquaculture production

  • Knowledge of project planning

  • Skill in writing (both technical and popular articles)

  • Possess good customer service, telephone, and data management skills

  • Ability to professionally explain Project, Division, and Agency programs, policies, and procedures to the public and other stakeholders

  • Ability to lift and move 60 lbs.

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

To view more details and apply, click here.

Posting Closing Date: 04/09/2025 

Starting salary: $1,730.77 bi-weekly + benefits

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

Supervisor: Ryder Hochmuth 

List of any subordinates supervised: 1 Fish & Wildlife Biological Scientist II, 2 Fish & Wildlife Technicians, and seasonal staff as needed.

Position address: Dinner Island Ranch WMA, 20105 County Road 833, Clewiston, FL 33440

Residency requirement: Incumbent is required to reside in on-site provided housing (3-bedroom, 2-bath house).

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 biologist to lead the Dinner Island Ranch Wildlife Management Area (WMA) staff in accomplishing a variety of habitat management goals for the benefit of wildlife and for the enjoyment of Florida residents and visitors. This position will work as part of a team to accomplish projects across the original Dinner Island Ranch property (21,714 acres) and the newly acquired Caracara Unit (17,251 acres).

Primary responsibilities include identifying, planning, and implementing effective projects and programs (e.g., prescribed burn, nonnative vegetation management, public access) consistent with the land management plan for the WMA; 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 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 position will regularly work independently in the field. This position will also work as a team with other WMAs within the District or South Region to accomplish management actions such as prescribed burning and managing waterfowl hunts at the Stormwater Treatment Areas. The successful candidate will supervise two full-time technicians, one full-time OPS+ biologist II, and a seasonal hunter check station operator. The successful candidate must occasionally attend regional and divisional meetings, various trainings, and assist on other management areas as needed.

About the WMA: Dinner Island Ranch WMA is in the heart of old South Florida between Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades. This WMA is home to a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, Florida panther, Florida black bear, bobcat, and American alligator. The habitat is composed of freshwater marshes, mesic hammocks, cypress dome swamps, pine flatwoods, and pasture. Hydrological improvements are underway to improve sheet flow and help restore degraded native habitats. Prescribed burning and invasive nonnative plant control are two of the primary tools used to manage and improve the property for wildlife. There is also an active cattle lease on the WMA. State housing is provided for this position (a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house is available).

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 nonnative 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 exotic vegetation in South Florida. Experience with habitat restoration work, wildlife surveys, and prescribed burning.

Level of Education: Bachelor of Science degree with a major in one of the physical or life sciences preferred. Four years of direct experience with the duties of this position may substitute for the Bachelor of Science degree in a physical or life science.

Other 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. Occasional overnight travel is required.

Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Scientist III – FWC (Midway, FL)

To apply and view more details, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 04/04/2025 

Salary:  $1,730.77 biweekly + benefits

Subordinates Supervised: None

Residency Requirement: Florida

Address: 1156 Cattle Gap Rd. Midway, FL. 32343

Supervisor: Dan Roberts 

Minimum Qualifications: Six years of relevant experience. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the six years of required experience.

 

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 to be considered. Submitted cover letter should at a minimum explain your interest in working with the Aquatic Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Subsection and identify your most relevant skills and experience.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

 

Description Of Duties
The Division of Habitat & Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices. The Aquatic Habitat Restoration/Enhancement Subsection (AHRE) of the Aquatic Habitat Conservation and Restoration Section is seeking an aquatic habitat restoration biologist to develop and manage projects on lakes, rivers, and wetlands to benefit fish and wildlife resources.  The position will work within the Northwest Florida AHRE multidisciplinary team, and independently.

This position is responsible for development of budget proposals, project specifications, contract management, and reporting. The position identifies aquatic habitat restoration/enhancement opportunities, secures internal or external project funding, hires and oversees contractors to complete habitat projects, and conducts assessment of project effectiveness.  In addition, the position will interact professionally with the public and partners providing technical expertise on aquatic habitat management. Overnight travel is required to complete fieldwork and attend regional and divisional meetings and trainings.

Required Duties Include but Are Not Limited to The Following:

  • Identify, develop, coordinate, and implement wetland and aquatic habitat restoration projects that maximize benefits to fish and wildlife resources

  • Work independently and with partners on ephemeral wetland restoration with focus on the eastern Florida panhandle. This work will include managing contractors on an array of restoration techniques including herbicide, heavy mechanical, and light mechanical.

  • Removal of nuisance vegetation and organic sediments, herbicide treatment of aquatic plants, planting of beneficial wetland vegetation species and utilization of other wetland restoration techniques.

  • Procure necessary state and federal permits required for project implementation.

  • Develop project bid documents and contracts.

  • Provide contract management of approved aquatic habitat enhancement projects.

  • Provide contractor oversight of approved aquatic habitat enhancement projects.

  • Work across FWC divisions and cooperate with other federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and others as appropriate to implement FWC’s aquatic habitat restoration program.

  • Participate in and provide input to internal (FWC sponsored) and external (non-FWC sponsored) aquatic resource management groups.

  • Coordinate and assist in the development and implementation of wetland and aquatic habitat monitoring and sampling.

  • Evaluate and predict environmental response to project activities in coordination with other FWC division, office, and section personnel.

  • Create and maintain databases of collected scientific data and maps of project areas using appropriate computer software.

  • Prepare, publish, and present project management plans and relevant project findings through internal (quarterly/annual/completion reports and management plans) and external (peer-reviewed publications, professional and public meeting, etc.) outlets.

  • Perform other project-related duties and tasks as directed by supervisor.

  • Be proficient in the operation of 4X4 vehicles and maintenance of project vehicles.

  • Be proficient in the operation and maintenance of boats, trailers, and airboats.

  • Be proficient in the operation and maintenance of UTVs and ATVs.

  • Be proficient in the use and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.

  • Assist other AHRE, AHCR and Commission projects as necessary.

  • Work independently with limited supervision.

  • Responsible for timely and accurate processing and/or approval, as appropriate, of vendor invoices and warrants for payment of goods received or services rendered to avoid automatic interest penalty payments to said vendors.

  • Responsible for adhering to the provisions and requirements of Section 215.422, F.S., related to State Comptroller’s rules and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures.
     

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledgeable in principles of aquatic ecology and fish/wildlife habitat management

  • Applied knowledge of the principles and practices of aquatic habitat management and restoration, including revegetation, mechanical and chemical vegetation control, and organic sediment removal

  • Knowledge of GIS and GPS and its application to habitat management and surveys

  • Proficient with Windows and Microsoft Office applications

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, the public and other stakeholders

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

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

  • Ability to work both as part of a team and independently, with limited supervision

  • Ability to work outdoors under harsh weather conditions

  • Ability to effectively swim and be comfortable in the water

  • Ability to conduct in-water tasks comfortably

  • Ability to work outside of normal business hours as necessary

Desired qualifications include:

  • Strong knowledge of freshwater ecology, habitat assessment, and management techniques

  • Familiarity with state and federal wetland permitting

  • Experience with project management, contract management, developing scopes of work, and oversight of contracted vendors

  • Proficient in GIS and GPS applications

  • Ability to operate boats, airboats, 4WD vehicles, UTVs/ATVs, and tow trailers

  • Experience using drones for vegetation or wildlife management

  • Experience or certified in the application of prescribed fire

Shorebird & Seabird Biologist - Audubon Florida (Tampa, FL )

Apply online at: https://audubon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Audubon/job/Shorebird---Seabird-Biologist--Tampa-Bay_JR724

 

Position Summary:

Audubon Florida seeks a Shorebird & Seabird Biologist for the Tampa Bay area Florida Shorebird Program. In Florida, Least Terns and American Oystercatchers nest on gravel rooftops for lack of undisturbed beach-nesting habitat. Audubon has developed techniques to improve the productivity of these roofs. This position is responsible for surveying historical rooftop nesting sites to determine if they are being used, “chick proofing” rooftops prior to the nesting season, coordinating volunteer groups to monitor sites and return fallen chicks to rooftop nests, educating building managers and businesses about rooftop-nesting birds, managing emergency rooftop repairs during the breeding season, and coordinating with agency staff and law enforcement to protect rooftop-nesting birds.

 

This position is also responsible for monitoring, management and stewardship of beach-nesting bird sites and seeking out novel nesting habitat opportunities for shorebirds and seabirds, winter monitoring and surveys of coastal birds, and engaging with communities, local governments, beach professionals, and law enforcement to enlist their help in coastal bird protection.

 

In close collaboration the Tampa Bay Shorebird Program Manager, Audubon staff, and partners, this position will manage implementation of Audubon's rooftop and coastal conservation work in 5 counties (Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota) in the Tampa Bay area. Most of the rooftop and beach nesting sites are in Pinellas County. The position will be based in a home office in Pinellas County, Florida.

 

This is a full-time, grant-funded position available approximately through December 31, 2032. Funding is provided by the Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund (GEBF). Additional funding may be available to extend the term of employment beyond December 2032.

 

Compensation:

$44,813 - $50,414 / year

 

Essential Functions

  • Lead management of stewardship and monitoring of rooftop nesting birds including determining the active/inactive status of rooftop nesting sites, conducting outreach to building owners, and installing chick safety measures such as fencing, or drain covers on rooftops.

  • Lead the recruitment, training, and retention of volunteer rooftop monitors and “chick-checkers”.

  • Plan and organize community outreach to engage the public in protecting shorebirds and seabirds.

  • Manage and enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database and other databases.

  • Conduct non-breeding shorebird surveys on beaches from September through March, and staging site surveys in July and August.

  • Interpret data and exercise sound judgement to make recommendations to minimize disturbance.

  • Collaborate with supervisor to identify, enhance, and protect novel nesting sites including artificial structures and opportunities for beneficial use of dredge material.

  • Work with state agency staff and local governments, communities, and other key partners to successfully implement shorebird conservation and management in the Tampa Bay area.

  • Work with Audubon's Communications Director and the press to communicate Audubon's work to the public through traditional and new media.

  • Help coordinate training opportunities for local and state law enforcement and enlist officers’ support to reduce disturbance and respond to wildlife violations.

  • Recognize building owners for good stewardship of rooftop colonies.

  • Contribute to technical reports, annual progress reports media articles or other publications.

  • Participate in regional working groups and workshops, including delivering technical presentations.

  • Coordinate reporting and billing for NFWF grant project with supervisor and grant staff.

  • Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

  • Other job-related duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications and Experience:

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

  • 3 years demonstrated advanced specialized skill in bird identification and performing demographic bird surveys using rigorous protocols is required. At least 2 years of experience with shorebird or seabird identification and rigorous surveys required.

  • Specialized skill and experience identifying shorebirds and seabirds required, experience handling birds preferred.

  • Advanced skill in collecting and interpreting data and data entry using Microsoft Excel and Access.

  • Demonstrated recruiting, training, and managing volunteers or comparable environmental education experience required.

  • Ability to work comfortably and safely with ladders and on rooftops at varying heights is required.

  • Experience installing and operating cameras including mobile (GoPro type), game cameras, and outdoor surveillance systems preferred.

  • Demonstrated experience problem-solving, interpreting data to make decisions, and exercising independent judgement while managing multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and operating independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment required.

  • Strong organizational and analytical skills and great attention to detail required.

  • Superior communication skills and demonstrated ability to work independently and with multiple partners and collaborators.

  • Team-focused attitude and the ability to work well independently as well as with others required.

  • Familiarity with coastal conservation lands of southwest Florida preferred.

  • Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult terrain, and lift 50 lbs with or without accommodation. 

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

  • Valid Driver’s License required.

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

  • Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Biological Administrator II - SES - FWC (Ocala, FL)

To view more details and apply, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 04/13/2025 

Starting Salary: $2,500.00 bi-weekly

Working hours: 8AM – 5PM Monday - Friday, with some variation; overnight travel required, occasional night and weekend work may be required.

Supervisor: Matthew Hortman

List of any subordinates supervised: Three Biological Administrator I positions and OPS positions as required.

Description of duties:

This leadership position serves as Assistant Regional Biologist for Wildlife and Habitat Management (WHM) Section activities in the Northeast Region, covering 10 counties. This position assists the WHM Northeast Regional Biologist with oversight and administrative duties related to the Wildlife Management Area and Wildlife and Environmental Areas (WMA/WEAs) within the region, including habitat and wildlife management/monitoring programs, budget and personnel management, acquisiton review and regulation/rule development. This posiiton will assist with public use coordination and visitor use management on WMA/WEAs in the region. This position will have direct and indirect impact on the management of 9 lead WMA/WEAs and 26 cooperative areas totaling over 1 million acres.

 

Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

Program Management: Assists with the preparation of annual work plans and implementation of Federal Aid management programs within the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) System. Administers Commission programs in the Northeast Region, which will include being a liaison and negotiating with private and various governmental landowners and managers. This position will work out of the Northeast Regional Office in Ocala.

Fiscal Responsibilities: Assists with the preparation and administration of the annual regional WHM budget. Supervises, monitors, and authorizes expenditures based on budget tracking and monitoring information.

Personnel Management: Serves as the WHM NE Region liaison with HSC Human Resources/Senior Management Analyst on hiring documentation and processes. Coordinates the hiring of FTE and OPS personnel. Coordinates, supervises and administers regional WHM field personnel. Evaluates job performance and directs supervisory personnel. Reviews and approves performance evaluation ratings. 

Land Acquisition: Supervises and coordinates analysis and on-site evaluations of various parcels of land proposed for purchase under state land acquisition programs.

Regulation/Rule Development: Recommends, based on research findings, population inventories and habitat assessments, open or closed seasons and the method of harvesting resident and migratory game animals.

Habitat Restoration, Management and Enhancement: Supervises the development and implementation of habitat restoration projects that will provide benefits to wildlife and restore natural plant communities. Coordinates and supervises habitat management projects designed to enhance or maintain habitat for game and non-game species. Coordinates these activities with cooperative landowners and agencies.

Wildlife Population Monitoring: Administers programs for monitoring and surveying populations of native, migratory, imperiled and selected nongame species in the region. Coordinates analysis and reporting of population surveys and subsequent population management recommendations.

Public Use coordination for areas within the WMA System in the Northeast Region: Coordinates all hunting activities for areas; coordinates the evaluation of special use permit requests; and coordinates dissemination of public information and education regarding WMA programs.

 

QUALIFICATIONS: This is not an entry level position. Strong interpersonal skills are required to lead, supervise and mentor employees and to develop and leverage partnerships with other agencies. Strong land management skills are required to evaluate habitat conditions and prescribe and direct appropriate treatments. Applicant must have applied knowledge of wildlife population and habitat management techniques in Florida, particularly the application of prescribed fire, mechanical and chemical vegetation control, grazing, water, and timber management; and have familiarization with outdoor recreational activities and the facilities needed to support them. Familiarity with GIS and other technological skills are also requisite for this level of land management. Strong administrative, organizational, and budget management skills are required to manage multiple projects and their associated budget. Job requirements therefore consist of the KSAs described above or a solid foundation of wildlife habitat management in Florida, coupled with the motivation, initiative and proclivity to quickly develop and apply the KSAs listed above.

Preference will be given to applicants that hold a current Florida Certified Burn Manager’s Certificate, have direct applied experience with habitat restoration and enhancement in north and central Florida, and are familiar with the State of Florida procurement procedures and supervision of field personnel.  

Level of Education- Minimum Qualifications: 7 years professional experience in a closely related biological field is required. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the seven years of required experience.

Other Requirements: Must have a valid FL Driver’s License, must satisfactorily pass Level 2 background and criminal history check prior to or within first three days of employment, and will be required to file annual Statement of Financial Interest with Florida’s Commission on Ethics.

Please include with your application a cover letter and resume describing your education and relevant professional experience.   

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

To apply and view more details, click here!

Posting Closing Date: 04/13/2025 

Salary: $1,730.77 bi-weekly

Working hours: 40hrs/week

List of any subordinates supervised: None

Residency requirement: None

Address: 6830 Shadowridge Drive, Suite 201, Orlando, FL  32812

Supervisor: Ed Harris

Minimum Qualifications: Six years of relevant experience. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the six years of required experience.

In addition to submitting a completed State of Florida electronic application and completing the qualifying questions, applicants must attach an up-to-date resume. A cover letter is also desired and 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.