OPS -Biological Scientist III - 77900495

State of Florida • Panama City, FL

45d • Onsite

About The Position

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Impact Management Section is seeking a Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Biologist. The position serves as a primary contact for human-wildlife conflict concerns and provides information and methods to prevent or mitigate conflicts. Assistance may be provided by phone, in person, or in writing. Fieldwork is occasional rather than a regular part of the role. The incumbent may represent the Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Program at outreach events, conduct presentations, make site visits, offer technical assistance and mitigation strategies, and loan equipment when appropriate.

The biologist works across FWC divisions and sections to coordinate responses to human-wildlife conflicts, establish communication about emerging issues, and implement response protocols with other programs, including the Division of Law Enforcement. The position is based in Panama City, Florida, and is scheduled for 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some nights and weekends and overnight travel may be required. Overnight travel is expected to be less than 25% of the time. Employment is contingent on successfully completing a background check.

Requirements

• High school diploma and six years of professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program; a Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field may substitute for four years of the required experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Submit a completed state application through People First, along with a resume and cover letter. Applications without both documents are incomplete and will not be considered.
• Comply with Commission standards of conduct, rules, directives, policies, procedures, and applicable general orders.
• Courteously assist Commission constituents and support agency objectives and programs through positive and proactive service.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of biological sciences and scientific principles of wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to communicate effectively with the public by phone about sensitive topics.
• Ability to develop and present educational outreach material to adult audiences.
• Computer skills for word processing, information management, communications, data management, and mapping.
• Knowledge of and experience with wildlife damage control techniques.
• Ability to identify native and non-native wildlife.
• Knowledge of wildlife issues in Florida.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment, record data accurately, and meet deadlines with minimal remote supervision.
• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with the public, stakeholder representatives, and coworkers.
• Ability to operate a vehicle safely.
• Ability to travel overnight less than 25% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance to the public and other agencies on addressing human-wildlife conflicts and promoting coexistence strategies.
• Maintain familiarity with prevalent wildlife conflict issues and identify and share best practices and protocols for technical assistance.
• Provide coverage for other regional Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Biologists as needed.
• Maintain an accurate and thorough daily log of public correspondence in the Wildlife Impact Management System database.
• Participate in public outreach efforts to increase appreciation for wildlife and address conflict abatement and other wildlife-related issues.
• Monitor incoming online conflict reports and follow up with stakeholders when needed.
• Occasionally support the FWC Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program’s management efforts through response activities.
• Stay current on Commission rules and regulations concerning protected wildlife, taking wildlife, conflict wildlife abatement, and related matters.
• Coordinate human-wildlife conflict situations involving bears, coyotes, birds, and other wildlife species.
• Establish clear communication across the agency about emerging wildlife issues.
• Assist in implementing human-wildlife conflict response protocols in coordination with other FWC programs, including the Division of Law Enforcement.
• Perform other miscellaneous duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Benefits

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (mandatory)
• Workers’ Compensation (mandatory)
• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) (mandatory)
• Potential participation in state group insurance upon meeting eligibility requirements
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)
• Employee Assistance Program (voluntary)

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED