OPS Construction Project Consultant II - FWC (Felda, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/14/2025 

Salary: $26.00/hour (40 hours per week; 1,920 hours per year)

Location: 100 CR 832 Felda, FL 33930 

Residency requirement: Must live within 25 miles of either Dinner Island Ranch, Spirit-of-the-Wild, or Okaloacoochee Slough WMA. The employee’s home will be their assigned office.

Supervisor: Marsha Ward

Working hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, may require some nights or weekends. Maximum allowable hours in a year: 1,920.

Minimum qualifications: Eight years professional experience in a closely-related business, management, engineering, project management, or biological related field is required. A bachelor’s degree from a college or university with a major in a relevant field can substitute for four of the eight years of required experience. A master's degree in a relevant field can substitute for one additional year of the required experience.

Additional 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.  

 Description of duties: The FWC’s South Region Wildlife and Habitat Management Section seeks a Project Manager to assist in project administration, including maintaining responsibility and administrative control of projects from the bidding phase through completion, predominantly on three Lead Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) located in Hendry County (Dinner Island Ranch, Spirit-of-the-Wild, and Okaloacoochee Slough WMAs). This position supports WHM staff managing wildlife, habitat, and public use on these WMAs, and could support WHM staff on other WMAs in the South Region. This position drafts, develops, and coordinates projects pertaining to WMA lands. Projects managed by this position may include habitat management, equipment purchase or maintenance, and infrastructure projects (e.g., construction and maintenance; building maintenance; fire line installation and maintenance; fence repair, installation, and removal).

Examples of work include:

• Develop project specifications for both ongoing and new projects.

• Be on-site for assigned WMAs for project development and oversight, to conduct and lead pre-bid/pre-quote meetings and site visits, monitor vendor performance, and ensure the succesful completion of projects.

• Provide on-site resolution of project problems.

• Acquire permits and compliance letters related to projects.

• Approve and initiate purchase orders, change orders, and substitutions of materials, equipment, and workmanship.

• Conduct routine site, substantial completion, and final inspection of assisgned projects.

• Effectively develop, monitor, and manage project budgets.

• Approve payments for work satifactorily completed.

• Ensure fulfillment of contractual obligations to the state by vendors.

• Develop strong professional relationships with WMA staff.

This position may also be trained to serve as a Contract Manager in the procurement of goods and services for WHM in the South Region. Duties associated would include developing formal solicitations for goods and services over $35,000; submitting requisitions, change orders, and invoices in MyFloridaMarketPlace; monitoring vendor performance and addressing deficiencies or other concerns.

This position will work as a team with other FWC staff within the South Region to accomplish job responsibilities. The position must reside within 25 miles of one of the assigned WMAs, and the employee’s home will be their assigned office. The successful candidate will assist the Regional Wildlife Biologist with other duties as requested, and must occasionally attend regional and divisional meetings, various trainings, and assist on other management areas as needed. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge and understanding of management principles and practices, business functional areas such as accounting and budgeting, state purchasing laws and rules, and state purchasing processes.

• Ability to work independently and solve problems and make sound decisions.

• Ability to determine work priorities and ensure timely completion of work assignments.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

• Ability to efficiently and effectively communicate with external and internal customers.

• Ability to interact with stakeholders, co-workers, and cooperating agencies in a professional manner.

• Ability to track spending and monitor budgets.

• Knowledge and experience in managing large budgets.

• Knowledge and experience with contract management, communicating with contractors, and resolving disputes.

• Ability to plan and prioritize work assignments.

• Ability to oversee multiple projects and set priorities.

• Proficiency in the use of Windows applications and Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word, Excel).

• Knowledge of the principles, techniques, materials and equipment used in construction related projects.

• Ability to work outside under inclement weather conditions.

• Familiarity with infrastructure development and maintenance.

• Familiarity with outdoor recreational activities and the facilities needed to support them.

• Knowledge of Florida ecosystems and natural processes.

Fisheries & Wildlife Biological Scientist IV (Land Use Planning) - FWC (Tallahassee, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/07/2025 

OPS Hourly Rate of Pay: $24.04 an hour

Supervisor: Ginger Feagle

Supervisor contact information: 386-586-8249 or Ginger.Feagle@MyFWC.com

Position Location: Russell Park Building Tallahassee Florida

Working hours: 40 hrs./week

Description of Duties:

This is a rewarding and challenging opportunity to contribute to landscape-level conservation objectives and benefit a wide variety of rare and imperiled species and their habitats across the State of Florida.  This position serves as a biologist in the Land Use Planning (LUP) Program in the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation’s Office of Conservation Planning Services (CPS).  Biologists in the LUP Program gain in-depth knowledge of Florida's environmental regulations and their practical applications, serve the public, and develop an enhanced understanding of listed species habitats and life histories while helping to shape a sustainable future in Florida.  LUP biologists work as part of a talented and diverse team and coordinate with wildlife experts throughout the Agency.

CPS provides technical assistance to a wide array of private and public sector landowners and local, state, and federal governmental entities on conservation-related issues.  The LUP Program coordinates collaborative consultations for large land use planning efforts that have the potential to impact fish and wildlife resources, particularly those that anticipate going through a regulatory process (Environmental Resource Permits, Section 404, Siting Coordination, County Comprehensive Plan amendments, major watershed initiatives, etc.).  This position will provide technical assistance to stakeholders and partner agencies for land use planning activities and is responsible for tracking, reviewing, and commenting on a variety of complex applications related to changes in land use and environmental permitting.  This position will also focus on partnerships and planning, including reducing impacts to Florida’s imperiled species, reducing habitat fragmentation, and reducing the potential for human-wildlife conflict, including identification of project mitigation that contributes to landscape level conservation objectives.

To excel in this role, the successful candidate must have an understanding of fish and wildlife ecology and management needs, as well as a practical knowledge of native habitat management and recovery techniques suited to various Florida landscapes.  Proficiency in technical writing and the use of GIS software is essential, and candidates will be expected to demonstrate these skills during the interview process.  Ideal candidates will have mastered these knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Much of the work in this position will be conducted from an office during regular business hours, and biologists in the LUP Program enjoy a relatively predictable work schedule with the flexibility to attend site visits or assist other FWC staff in the field when appropriate.  Occasional long days and overnight travel are expected.  Agency supported and individual-specific training will be made available to the person in this position as needed. 

The position is 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.  It is responsible for adhering to the provisions and requirements of Section 215.422, F.S., related to State Comptroller’s rules, as well as Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures.  Responsibilities may include legislative interactions.  The position is expected to courteously assist Commission constituents to resolve questions or problems they may have in matters relating to the Commission, its programs or fish and wildlife conservation, generally.  It is expected to actively garner public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida’s citizens in a positive and proactive manner.

Requirements: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Eligible candidates must possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License.

Minimum Qualifications: A high school diploma and Seven years of relevant experience. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the seven years of required experience.  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 applications and/or 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. 

A cover letter and resume must be included with the application package.  For questions regarding this position, please contact Samantha Baysinger at Ginger.Feagle@MyFWC.com or by phone at (386) 586-8249.

OPS-Fish &Wildlife Tech Intern - FWC (Alachua, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/24/2025 

OPS Hourly Rate: $16.83 hourly

Supervisor: Brandon Myers

 Supervisor contact information for inquiries, (850-819-1141, brandon.myers@myfwc.com)

Position location: Tate’s Hell State Forest, 290 Airport Rd, Carrabelle, FL, 32322

Working term/hours: Expected term will be 25 weeks from January through June 2026 but is flexible within a couple weeks. Days are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST), Monday through Friday, may require some night or weekend duty. Occasional overnight travel is required.

Residency Requirement: Housing will be provided in nearby facilities for $10 a night (key deposit required).

Minimum qualifications: The target applicants will be juniors and seniors pursuing a bachelor’s degree in wildlife science or a closely related discipline or those who graduated in  May/June 2025 or are graduating in December 2025.

Preferred qualifications: Applicants do not need to be highly skilled but must explain interest and demonstrate enthusiasm and the ability to work effectively with team members in the supporting cover letter.

Description of Duties:

FWC is seeking an intern to work with biologists and technicians to manage natural communities and wildlife populations on Tate’s Hell and Apalachicola Wildlife Management Areas. Significant time during this internship will be spent on surveying and monitoring locally important and imperiled wildlife species using scientifically accepted protocols, including the red-cockaded woodpecker. The intern will also receive basic prescribed fire training (S-130/190) and be expected to participate on burns as needed. Other opportunities to include involvement with breeding bird surveys, forest inventory, fish community sampling, sea turtle nest monitoring, and frosted flatwoods salamander monitoring, as well as the development of an independent survey.

Applicants should have a willingness and aptitude to learn how to conduct wildlife surveys and apply prescribed fire. Energy, enthusiasm, and the ability to work effectively in a team setting will be required as well as the ability to work in harsh conditions, including wet environments, biting insects, high heat, and high humidity. The selected candidate will be expected to operate ATVs, trucks, small boats, and various electronic equipment.

Research Scientist - FWC (St. Petersburg, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/02/2025 

Pay: $61,323 Annually

Minimum Qualifications:
9 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 five years of professional experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics; or A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and four years of professional experience as described above; or A doctorate 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 professional experience as described above can substitute for the required experience.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications:

Demonstrated experience in fisheries-dependent data collection, management, and analysis

Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS) and relational database systems (e.g., SQL).

Proven record of writing, reviewing, and submitting grant proposals, technical reports, and/or peer-reviewed publications.

Familiarity with state and federal fisheries management agencies, regulations, and policies.

Strong technical writing and scientific communication skills for both professional and public audiences.

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The incumbent will be responsible for assisting in the coordination of programs and activities of the Fisheries Dependent Monitoring (FDM) subsection. The duties include but not limited to:

Provide data and analyses to support the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and other agencies

Coordinate with other state, federal, and corporate partners to facilitate data and procedural sharing and project coordination

Promotes and assists in the development of grant applications appropriate for implementation of the FWRI strategic plan

Write, review, and submit grant proposals and reports following agency deadlines

Conducts scientific publications using data collected from FDM projects

Respond to and perform data requests in a timely manner

Assist in the creation and management of project documentation and programmatic structuring
Assist with the creation and management of codes and scientific databases

Data QA/QC

Participate in public outreach efforts as appropriate

Perform other duties as assigned.
 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of terminology, principles, and application of techniques used in scientific research analysis and testing, numerical modeling and statistical methods.

Knowledge of Fisheries Dependent Monitoring data collection, management, and analysis

Skilled in data analysis, experimental design, testing hypotheses and computer programming.

Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships

Ability to plan, manage and coordinate a program of scientific research.

Knowledge in using Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Outlook and Adobe Pro
Possess good customer service, telephone and clerical skills

Ability to work independently and within a team

Ability to write technical reports and manuscripts
Ability and desire to work in an extremely fast-paced, team environment
Ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines 
Ability to work in a confidential environment. High attention to detail

Possess strong organizational skills

Assistant Research Scientist (OPS Position) - FWC (Gainesville, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 09/19/2025 

Compensation: $27/Hour

Minimum Qualifications:

7 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 three years of professional experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics; or A master'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 professional experience as described above; or A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics can substitute for the required experience.

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with degrees and professional experience directly relevant to the ecology, conservation, or management of wild amphibians and/or reptiles.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The incumbent serves as an Assistant Research Scientist in the Reptile, Amphibian and Terrestrial Invertebrate Research Subsection within the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. Initiates research and monitoring of amphibians and reptiles associated with central Florida lakes to provide information needed to better conserve the species; field work will be accompanied by mesocosm experiments to help identify mechanisms impacting amphibian and reptiles with the potential to incorporate invertebrates as well. Develops and implements all aspects of research or monitoring projects, including study design, data collection and analysis, and writing reports and peer-reviewed publications. Uses appropriate and current techniques to conduct research on assemblage composition and dynamics, population demography, habitat use, and other issues that influence the conservation of relevant species. Works independently, with colleagues, and cooperatively with partners from agencies, institutions, universities, and the public; Prepares final reports for projects, publishes results in scientific journals, and prepares information for popular audiences.

Supervises assigned field research staff and volunteers and interns. Duties include: recruitment, training, planning and directing work, reviewing performance with employee and ensuring compliance with Commission and FWRI rules, policies, and procedures.

Performs routine administrative duties such as preparation of itineraries, travel vouchers, purchase order requisitions, vehicle operation reports, and other administrative reports. Participates in public outreach efforts as appropriate. Assist with related subsection initiatives and obligations.

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

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of:  1 – standard methods of data collection and management and the principles and techniques of biological research, including data analysis and publication of results; 2 – biology, conservation, and management of Florida’s amphibians and reptiles; and 3 – ecological analysis techniques.  Ability to: 1 – capture and handle wild amphibians and reptiles, 2 – design and conduct scientific studies, 3 – effectively use common word processing and database software and ArcGIS, 4 – analyze ecological data, especially with use of current analytical software programs; 5 – properly collect biological data and organize data efficiently in electronic databases; 6 – write reports and publish results in technical journals;  7 – work effectively alone or with colleagues and partners; 8 -  work on an irregular schedule for extended hours, travel overnight as needed,  and work in a variety of field conditions; 9 - manage multiple projects simultaneously;  and 10 – Safely drive 4WD vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, small boats. Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license.

OPS Biological Scientist II - FWC (Gainesville, FL)

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Posting Closing Date: 10/17/2025 

Pay rate: $23 per hour

Location: Gainesville, FL  

Minimum Qualifications:

5 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 a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program can subsitute for the required experience; or A master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with degrees and professional experience directly relevant to the ecology, conservation, or management of wild amphibians and/or reptiles.

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The incumbent serves as Biological Scientist II in the Reptile, Amphibian and Terrestrial Invertebrate Research Subsection within the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. Assists with research and monitoring of amphibians and reptiles associated with central Florida lakes to provide information needed to better conserve the species; field work will be accompanied by mesocosm experiments to help identify mechanisms impacting amphibian and reptiles with the potential to incorporate invertebrates as well. Incumbent will be primarily responsible for data collection but will also have the opportunity to develop research projects, conduct analyses, and write reports and peer-reviewed publications.

Performs routine administrative duties such as preparation of itineraries, travel vouchers, purchase order requisitions, vehicle operation reports, and other administrative reports. Participates in public outreach efforts as appropriate. Assist with related subsection initiatives and obligations.

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

Performs related work as required.

 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of:  1 – standard methods of data collection and management and the principles and techniques of biological research, including data analysis and publication of results; 2 – biology, conservation, and management of Florida’s amphibians and reptiles; and 3 – ecological analysis techniques.  Ability to: 1 – capture and handle wild amphibians and reptiles, 2 – design and conduct scientific studies, 3 – effectively use common word processing and database software and ArcGIS, 4 – analyze ecological data, especially with use of current analytical software programs; 5 – properly collect biological data and organize data efficiently in electronic databases; 6 – write reports and publish results in technical journals;  7 – work effectively alone or with colleagues and partners; 8 -  work on an irregular schedule for extended hours, travel overnight as needed,  and work in a variety of field conditions; 9 - manage multiple projects simultaneously;  and 10 – Safely drive 4WD vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, small boats. Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license.

Land Management Specialist - SJRWMD (Mount Dora, FL)

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Closing Date: Open until filled

Starting Salary Range: $45,864.00 - $57,324.80 

Location: Apopka Field Station, 25633 County Road 448A, Mount Dora, FL 32757 

Job Summary: This is professional work assisting in the development, implementation, and management of SJRWMD's land management programs. 

Job duties include: 

• Monitors natural communities for management needs and effects of management activities; assists in the development and implementation of the Area Management Plans by providing firsthand knowledge of properties and ground investigations; ensures proper implementation of restoration projects, forestry operations, and other activities through supervision of contractors, volunteers, and direct participation; create scopes of work and manages various Land Management related contracts. Assists in the support and development of Land Management Database. Assists with herbicide application as needed.

• Participates in controlled burning activities for natural resource enhancement, restoration, and fuel reduction. Develops plans, prescriptions, and resource needs related to fire control. Participates in fire suppression activities. Supervise and participate in establishment and maintenance of fire lines. Coordinates fire activities with coworkers, neighbors, and other agencies.  Monitors short and long-term effects of fire management and helps support fire management database.

• Coordinates with other agencies and local governments on development and implementation of land management agreements; encourages public support for the land management program by supervising the installation of public access points and facilities and managing their use; responding to public inquiries; supervising public use; conducting tours; making presentations; and attending meetings.

• Protects District lands and facilities by assisting in the development of security plans, observing and reporting activities such as vandalism, poaching and wildfires, and maintaining good relations with local law enforcement personnel.

• Assist with monitoring, mapping, banding, and general management of listed bird species, as needed.  Provide knowledge and assist in the management of other listed flora and fauna.

• Assists the coordination of the land management program with other departments, agencies, and lessees by assisting in the formulation of agreements and licenses, managing leases, ensuring compliance with agreements and licenses, and maintaining contracts with cooperators and lessees.

Ability to:  

Communicate with supervisors, co-workers, members of the public, volunteers and other agency personnel. Read and interpret maps. Handle various tasks and projects with minimal supervision. 

Preferred candidate with basic fire management and terrestrial herbicide application experience. 

Skilled In:  

Natural communities, flora, and fauna identification; basic forest management activities: marking, cruising, reforestation small equipment operation; basic computer programs, GPS, GIS. 

Physical Requirements/Working Environment: 

Endure harsh outdoor environments in uncomfortable/extreme temperatures, inclement weather, rough terrain, venomous animals, rain, and other potential hazards. Participate in prescribed fire and wildfire management activities; drive trucks, ATVs, tractors, (other equipment), trailering of equipment, operate or learn to operate airboats, participates with invasive plant management activities as needed 

Occasional overnight travel required. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

A Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university with a major in forestry, ecology, natural resources, wildlife management, natural science, or related field; or an associate degree from an accredited college in biology, environmental science, forest technology or related natural resource field and two years of progressively responsible natural resource management experience. Progressively responsible experience in natural resource management can substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required education.