OPS Research Associate - 77907581 1

Requisition No: 839828 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Research Associate - 77907581 1

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907581 

Salary:  $20-$22/hour 

Posting Closing Date: 12/14/2024 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Fish & Wildlife Research Institute

Research Associate – OPS Position

$20-22 per hour

100 8th Ave SE

Saint Petersburg, FL

 Ecosystem Assessment & Restoration

Fish & Wildlife Health

Research Associate- OPS 77907581

Saint Petersburg, Florida - $20-22 per hour

Our organization:

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

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

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

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

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and two years of experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics; or two years of experience as a Research Assistant – FWC; or,

A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for one year of the required experience; or,

A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for the required experience.

Requirements:

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

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

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

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

Conduct carcass collection and transport between field and laboratory.

Coordinate sample collection of herpetofaunal and avian diseases.

Perform necropsies of herpetofaunal and avian species.

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

Lead laboratory inventory, upkeep, and organization.

Maintain specimen inventory (fixed and frozen tissues).

Maintain medical records and sample records.

Provide for sample shipping following applicable shipping rules and regulations.

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

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

Assist with other terrestrial and aquatic wildlife disease investigations as needed

Assist with purchases as needed.                       

Participate in public outreach efforts as appropriate.

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

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

Perform other administrative duties as required.

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

Knowledge of: wildlife ecology, animal health/disease concepts; methods of relevant field and laboratory data collection; and general procedures, techniques and equipment used in biological laboratory testing and analysis. Skill in: use of personal computers, spreadsheet, and word processing software, particularly Microsoft Office products; ability to collect biological data and organize data efficiently in electronic databases; laboratory skills including organization of laboratory materials and diagnostic specimens; proper handling of chemicals; biosafety; adherence to protocols and shipping of specimens per state/federal regulations; and excellent time management. Ability to: understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; perform detailed work accurately and independently; utilize problem solving techniques; lift up to 50 lbs.; plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments with others; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships; maintain a valid driver’s license; and work effectively both independently and as a member of a team.

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. 

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

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/.

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.