OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - F - 77900865

State of Florida • Tequesta, FL

7d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an OPS (Other Personal Service) position with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), Section: Marine Fisheries Research. The position focuses on Fisheries Dependent Monitoring. The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes. Their mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. The values of the FWC include making quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative, and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Requirements

• 4 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 a major in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience.
• Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate.
• Ability to conduct field sampling of commercial and recreational catches of fish and interview fishers to obtain characteristics of their fishing trips.
• Ability to operate computers including tablets.
• Ability to submit travel electronically.
• Ability to use MS Office and other appropriate computer software.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with FWC and other agency staff, and with commercial fishers and dealers.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public.
• Ability to maintain field sampling equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience removing otoliths through the gills
• South Atlantic fish ID
• Scientific data collection

Responsibilities

• Conduct directed field research and monitoring of commercial fisheries from Florida’s South Atlantic waters by collecting detailed biostatistical data, including but not limited to: species composition, sex ratio, fish weight, and size of fish and shellfish from commercial catches.
• Interview fishermen to gather additional data on catch rates, effort, gear, and area fished.
• Collect samples from marine fish for stock assessments and genetic analysis.
• Compile and enter data into databases as necessary, ensuring timely preparation and delivery.
• Evaluate collection procedures and suggest modifications.
• Participate in the development of methodologies for collecting appropriate biostatistical data on new and emerging fisheries.
• Maintain field sampling equipment.
• Additional duties may include data analysis, production of tables and figures for publication, participation in technical or scientific reports, and occasional sampling of recreational fisheries.
• Perform other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by section supervisor.
• May participate in public outreach efforts, as appropriate.

Benefits

• No benefits or moving expenses.
• Occasional overtime hours may occur. Hours worked over 40 per week, Friday to Thursday, are considered overtime and are paid @ 1.5 times the regular wage.
• 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)

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level