OPS Fish & Wildlife Technician - 77904012

Our organization:

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

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

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

Minimum Qualifications:

The candidate must be 18 years old. The candidate must complete a three-day vessel training course once hired. Compensation for time and travel costs for training will be provided.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference will be given to candidates with boating experience and proficiency launching and recovering an outboard vessel.

Requirements:

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

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

• Position will be responsible for conducting on-the-water angler surveys on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes (Lakes Toho and/or Kissimmee) in Central Florida.
• Incumbent will collect angler effort, catch, and harvest data via verbal angler interviews for freshwater sportfish species such as Florida bass, crappie, and bream.
• Surveys occur during 6-hour periods and consist of boating the entire shoreline of a lake at fixed intervals.
• Incumbent will count and interview every angler encountered in a polite and professional manner. Incumbent will follow a predefined interview protocol. 
• Position will be responsible for safely storing and delivering collected creel data to supervisor.
• This position is temporary, and the surveys run from December 2025-May 2026
• This position will require 15 to 25 hours of work per week.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities  

• Knowledge of Florida freshwater sportfish species and general angling terminology; and general small boat troubleshooting. 
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally with the public in a polite and professional manner
• Follow explicit interview protocols
• Accurately and legibly record and safely store data; work independently
• Work irregular weekday and weekend work periods, often in inclement weather
• Maintain a valid driver’s license
• Provide own transportation to and from work locations. 
• Skills in trailering, launching, and operating watercraft up to 24ft, likely in inclement weather.

**Please note: incumbent will need to take and pass FWC’s Trailer and boating training prior to conducting surveys. 

Why should I apply?

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
*Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions. .

Health Premiums $25.00- Single / $90.00- Family Biweekly

Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance

OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan

On the Job Trainings

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

For a more complete list of benefits, visit https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/