OPS Biological Scientist II - 77907196

Requisition No: 842456 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Biological Scientist II - 77907196

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907196 

Salary:  $20 per hour 

Posting Closing Date: 12/27/2024 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Marine Mammal Research Program

Biological Scientist II – OPS Position

$20 per hour

100 Eighth Ave SE

Saint Petersburg, FL 33701

 Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Biological Scientist II - OPS 77907196

Saint Petersburg, Florida - $20 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:
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 can substitute for the required experience.

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications: experience with operating and trailering watercraft , experience with wildlife tracking using radio-telemetry.
 

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

Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Application Form electronically in People First, by midnight on the closing date listed. Go to:  https://jobs.myflorida.com (enter 77907196 in the keyword search field). Applicants must also upload a cover letter, resume, and contact information (including email and phone) for three references with their People First application by the closing date, but these do not replace the requirement for a completed State of Florida application form.  Applicants are required to complete the additional application questions (answers of ‘see resume’ are not sufficient).  If you experience technical difficulties during the application process, please call People First at 1-877-562-7287. 

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The person in this position will collaborate with FWRI scientists to conduct field research and collect data on manatee behavior, ecology, habitat, distribution, and threats. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with tagging manatees through capture and in-water replacement of tags, independently tracking tagged manatees with radio-telemetry and sonic equipment by boat and from shore, and recording behavioral observations and environmental data.  Additional field responsibilities include conducting aerial surveys, photo-identification, genetic biopsy sampling, temperature monitoring, habitat assessments, and other field work as assigned.  Office and lab responsibilities include entering, editing, and verifying data; monitoring manatee movement behavior using satellite-linked telemetry; maintaining project databases, equipment inventories, and records; creating and updating written procedures; providing summary information and data to managers as needed; purchasing and constructing tagging and other project-related gear; and assisting with maintenance of field and lab equipment, vehicle, and vessel. Travel may be state-wide.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of wildlife ecology, biology, and natural systems

Knowledge of principles and techniques of scientific research

Knowledge of methods of biological data collection

Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook) and Adobe Acrobat

Skilled in wildlife tracking using radio-telemetry

Skilled in the safe operation and trailering of small watercraft (up to 24ft.), able to complete a small boat safety course within the probationary period

Skilled in the aerial survey of wildlife

Skilled in the use and maintenance of scientific field equipment, including digital SLR cameras

Skilled in problem-solving, especially in field situations

Ability to record data independently and accurately in a sometimes-harsh field environment

Ability to perform detail-oriented work in an organized manner

Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

Ability to work independently and as part of a team; establish and maintain effective working relationships

Ability to swim with sufficient skill to perform in-water research

Ability to maintain a U.S. driver’s license

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/.

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.