BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST II - 37002293

State of Florida • LAKE WALES, FL

7d • Onsite

About The Position

This position provides biological, resource management, interpretive, and environmental analysis support for multiple units within the Florida Park System. The role involves conducting biological research, planning and monitoring resource management projects, and preparing management plans. It also includes investigating potential threats to natural and cultural resources, conducting training sessions, and maintaining office records and equipment. The position is located at Lake Kissimmee State Park, which also manages Catfish Creek Preserve State Park, encompassing over 14,000 acres. Duties extend to normal park ranger tasks, assisting other agencies, living history interpretation, wildland fire management, disaster recovery, operating heavy equipment, and managing herds of cattle and horses.

Requirements

• Valid driver's license
• Successfully complete required pack test

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor’s or graduate degree in biological sciences with 1 year of professional experience.
• Burn Boss Certification

Responsibilities

• Conduct biological research projects and analyze biological communities and other physical features.
• Plan, recommend, and monitor resource management projects, including prescribed burning and wildfire management, exotic species removal, reforestation, plant community restoration, erosion control, pest species control and native wildlife management.
• Prepare and update relevant portions of management plans at least every five years.
• Consult with park manager and planners on the effects of design and development on park resources.
• Advise on the preservation, restoration and appearance of historical and archaeological sites.
• Recommend native trees and shrubs for landscape projects.
• Conduct flora and fauna surveys and coordinate biological monitoring.
• Utilize state vehicles in performance of duties.
• Gather scientific and professional reports and other information through field observations and studies about natural history.
• Gather professional reports and other information through interviews and library investigations about cultural history.
• Assemble information into interpretive talks, brochures, exhibit copy, tour spiels and other forms of interpretation communication.
• Provide interpretive programs to the public through guided walks, campfire programs, speeches, TV and radio presentations.
• Provide assistance to rangers involved in interpretations in the form of slides, written material, and the design of interpretative facilities.
• Provide quality photographs for exhibits, programs, and publications.
• Investigate and report on all pending development and other projects which may threaten the natural and cultural resources of the park such highways, dams, drainage, pesticide application and dredging.
• Attend public hearings on these projects to present the Division’s official statement.
• Participate in the resource management audit program.
• Conduct training sessions for park personnel, students, resource management specialists and laymen in the techniques of resource management and natural history topics.
• Participate at Ranger Academy.
• Maintain an office to include correspondence files, slide files and reference library, specification writing, monthly reports and miscellaneous correspondence.
• Maintain A-V equipment, camera, vehicle and office equipment as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Annual and Sick Leave benefits.
• Nine paid holidays and one Personal Holiday each year.
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options.
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions.
• Tuition waivers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level