OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II - 37940234

 Requisition No: 865519 

Agency: Environmental Protection

Working Title: OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II - 37940234

Position Number: 37940234 

Salary:  25.60 per hour 

Posting Closing Date: 12/05/2025 

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OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II

State of Florida

Department of Environmental Protection

This position is located in Tallahassee, FL

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The OPS Environmental Specialist II (37940234) is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Biology Program, Taxonomy Group in Tallahassee. DEP leads state efforts to respond to blue-green Algae blooms in Florida's waters. This position will be responsible for identifying the algae in environmental samples, including blue-green algae blooms, to the lowest practical taxonomical level. This work is integral to Division, Department, and State goals by providing them with the highest quality laboratory services and algal data available. This intermediate level environmental position will:

• Receive, preserve, and prepare samples and slides for taxonomic identification.
• Performs algal taxonomic identification on phytoplankton and periphyton samples. Assists other taxonomists in correct, accurate identification of algal taxa and trains new taxonomists. Coordinates and participates in laboratory and taxonomic identification quality control (QC) procedures.
• Sets up, enters, verifies, and collates taxonomic data using the Statewide Biological Database (SBIO), Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and other appropriate computer software. Interprets and communicates analytical results to clients.
• Coordinates and assists in maintenance of algal cultures.
• Assists in the preparation of reports and presentations and interprets biological and chemical data.

• Participates in laboratory glassware cleaning; participates in general laboratory maintenance tasks.
• Participates in cross training activities as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

•Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and methods for aquatic biology and ecology, environmental sciences, and similar, related disciplines.

•Knowledge of the analytical techniques used to accurately identify algae to the lowest practical taxonomic level.

•Knowledge of biological and laboratory QA/QC principals and methods.

•Skill in using a compound, inverted, and dissecting microscope for analytical purposes.

•Skill in the use of computers, including Microsoft Office software, internet resources, or other computer programs.

•Skill in collecting, recording, and interpreting scientific and technical data.

• Skills in determining workload priorities and ensuring proper completion of work assignments.

• Ability to understand and follow technical instructions related to sample collection, testing and analysis, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance and

quality control procedures.

•Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

•Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

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

• Ability to think and work independently, and to work well in a group.

• Ability to be adaptable, flexible, and resourceful in response to laboratory workload shifts.

• Ability to complete repetitive tasks accurately and efficiently

• Ability to sit and use a microscope daily.

• Ability to work at counter-height surfaces and at a sink to wash laboratory glassware and sample containers.

• Ability to wear laboratory personal protective apparel and work with acids, acetone, Lugol's, Formalin, and other chemicals.

• Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license and travel.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• At least 5 years of verifiable related experience in biological sciences, environmental science, natural sciences, or physical sciences. Post-secondary degrees from an accredited college or university with a major in biological, environmental, natural, or physical sciences may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year-for-year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.

• Valid Driver’s License

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience of taxonomically identifying algae using an inverted or compound microscope, preferably a minimum of one year.
• Knowledge of harmful algal bloom formation and common taxa.

Pay:

$25.60/hr

Our Organization and Mission: 

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship - protecting our air, water and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida’s position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state’s economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies. We believe in supporting and encouraging you as you take on important and often complex projects while offering you the opportunity to gain valuable experience quickly.

Where You Will Work:

Tallahassee – Tallahassee, Florida’s Capital City, lined with rolling hills, oak trees, and canopied roads combine old world charm with a modern pace of life. Home to two major universities as well as state government, Tallahassee is a mid-sized city in the heart of Florida’s Big Bend. Tallahassee is a highly desirable location for both those seeking their first job or those ready to enter the next exciting chapter in their career.

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida: 

 Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. The State’s benefits package for eligible OPS employees includes:

• Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements*).  
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax deferred Retirement Savings Plan, for more information, please visit Corebridge Financial).
• Flexible Spending Accounts;
• And more!

For a complete list of benefits, visit www.mybenefits.myflorida.com.

*Seasonal and part-time OPS employees (less than 30 hours average per week) refer to the links above for detailed eligibility requirements.

Special Notes: 

DEP is committed to successfully recruiting and onboarding talented and skilled individuals into its workforce. We recognize the extensive training, experience, and transferable skills that veterans and individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to contact our recruiter for guidance and answers to questions through the following email addresses:

HR_VeteransPreference@dep.state.fl.us

HR_Recruitment@FloridaDEP.gov

An individual with a disability is qualified if he or she satisfies the skills, experience, and other job-related requirements for a position and can perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must contact the DEP Human Resources (HR) Office at (850) 245-2511. DEP requests applicants notify HR in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

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.