OPS F&W Biological Scientist II - 77907663

State of Florida • CEDAR KEY, FL

8d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an OPS (Other Personnel Services) position with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) focusing on Marine Fish Biology. The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes. The 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 being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative, and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Requirements

• 5 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program.
• 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.
• Satisfactory Level 1 background check.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Within four months of employment, successful completion of boating safety course (from a recognized training agency), FWC boater operation course, FWC trailer towing course, and First Aid/CPR Training.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in marine fisheries or closely related field.
• Demonstrated mastery of the scientific method through field operations management, co-authorships in the peer-reviewed literature and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Scientific diving experience.
• Experience in analysis of acoustic telemetry data.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fisheries sampling including hook-and-line fishing, seining, and collection of biological specimens.
• Collect data following defined procedures.
• Coordinate with recreational anglers to obtain data and biological samples.
• Plan and conduct hook-and-line and seining field trips, with associated biological sampling.
• Perform extensive laboratory duties including removal and processing of otoliths and tissues for histological and genetic analysis, staging of reproductive phase, determination of age from young-of-the-year otoliths, and other duties as related to the age, growth, mortality, and reproductive biology of fishes.
• Tag various fish with both internal acoustic and external dart tags and maintenance of acoustic arrays.
• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of boats, trailers, and field equipment.
• Enter, proof, correct, and archive data using database software.
• Analyze data and prepare reports, data summaries, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• Collaborate with various FWRI research groups and projects and with University of Florida research groups and projects.
• Participate in public outreach events.
• Work well independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage with 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: Mid Level