OPS Research Associate - FWC - 77990821

Requisition No: 816626 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Research Associate - FWC - 77990821

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77990821 

Salary:  $22/hour 

Posting Closing Date: 12/12/2023 

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The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), the research arm of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), invites applications for an OPS Research Associate in the Fish and Wildlife Health subsection. 

JOB DESCRIPTION  

The successful applicant will function as a member of the wildlife health team at FWRI in St. Petersburg, FL focused on reptile, amphibian, and avian health. Responsibilities include field sample collection from live and dead free ranging herpetofaunal and avian species, collecting and transporting carcasses between field, freezer locations, and laboratory, maintenance of sample inventory and laboratory upkeep, performing laboratory work geared towards molecular diagnostics of important wildlife pathogens.  The successful applicant will also coordinate with multiple partners on disease surveillance, participate in other lab duties as needed including purchasing, sample shipment, public outreach, and other administrative duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

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. 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. 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.

*4 years professional experience in a direct related biological field or laboratory program can substitute for the required bachelor’s degree; additional years of experience as described above are also required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs):

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.

OPS EMPLOYMENT DESCRIPTION

The position is OPS (Other Personnel Services), which means that employees are paid for the number of hours they work. The position is term-limited for one year (ending December 31, 2016) but may be extended pending job performance and available funding.

Benefits applicable to OPS employees:

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory
• Workers’ Compensation - mandatory
• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory
• Participation in state group insurance- voluntary
• Deferred Compensation - voluntary
• Employee Assistance Program – voluntary

Benefits not applicable to OPS employees:

• Any form of paid leave
• Paid holidays
• Participation in the Florida Retirement System
• Reinstatement rights or retention rights

TO APPLY

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must do all of the following by midnight on the closing date listed: submit an electronic State of Florida employment application at http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com, complete the qualifying questions, and attach a current CV or resume and a cover letter. The cover letter should explain your interest in FWC and this position, detail relevant experience, and identify how you meet the required KSAs for the position. If you experience technical difficulties during the application process, please call People First at 1-877-562-7287. 

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.