OPS Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Sci II - 77900781

Requisition No: 876495 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Sci II - 77900781

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77900781 

Salary:  $21.00 per hour 

Posting Closing Date: 06/10/2026 

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FWC Tequesta Field Office/ Marine Fish Biology

Fish & Wildlife Biological Scientist II - OPS Position

$21.00 Per Hour

19100 SE Federal Highway

Tequesta, FL

FWC Tequesta Field Office

OPS Fish & Wildlife Biological Scientist II (77900781)

Tequesta, Florida - $21 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:

5 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required. OR 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 that possess a master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in marine fisheries or closely related field or have demonstrated mastery of the scientific method through field operations management, co-authorships in the peer-reviewed literature and presentations at scientific conferences. Preference may also be given to candidates that currently possess a scientific (AAUS) dive certification.

Requirements:

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

Valid Driver’s License

SCUBA Diving Certification (through a recognized training agency)

Within four months of employment, successful completion of FWC trailer towing course, boating safety course (from a recognized training agency) and First Aid, CPR (with AED) and O2 Administration.

Within six months of employment, successful completion of an American Academy of Underwater Science (AAUS) dive certification.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

Conduct biological research on aspects of Florida’s marine fisheries resources. Participate in field and laboratory research involving both inshore and offshore aquatic habitat systems to evaluate age and growth, movement patterns, and reproductive biology of the species under investigation. Research includes both above water and underwater sampling procedures (requires participation in SCUBA diving). Organize and maintain scientific collection records including preparation of field sheets for processing, data entry, and proofing. Assist in the management of project databases and help principal investigators conduct analysis of data.  Assist in the preparation of reports to grant agencies, fishery managers, other scientists and stakeholders. Promote marine conservation interests of Florida through collaborative research efforts, stakeholder coordination and outreach events at the local and state level as appropriate. Perform other work as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of: Florida’s fisheries (particularly gamefishes) including life history, ecology and stakeholder involvement; principles and techniques used in scientific research; fish identification; methods and gears used for the collection of fisheries samples; field research preparation; use of personal computers and databases, statistical analysis and geospatial software; safety protocol, and emergency response procedures.

Skill in: the use and maintenance of scientific laboratories, acoustic monitoring and field equipment; SCUBA diving and underwater research techniques; how to properly handle various fish species; and data management.

Ability to: work independently or as part of a team; perform strenuous field duties in adverse conditions including heavy lifting, acquire (completion of dive standards, pass physical screening and demonstrate in water proficiency) and maintain scientific diver credentials (AAUS), dive and work at depths of 130 feet or less. assist in the preparation of technical reports and scientific manuscripts, effectively communicate both verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; deal effectively with the public; maintain a valid driver’s license; safely trailer, operate and maintain research vessels less than 28' in length; and work hours in excess of 40 per week.

Why should I apply? 

This is an opportunity to become part of a dynamic team focused on the conservation of Florida’s natural resources.

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/.

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.