OPS -Biological Scientist III - 77900495

State of Florida • Panama City, FL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Wildlife Impact Management Section is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to serve as a Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Biologist. The incumbent serves as the primary point of contact for human-wildlife conflict issues and provides information or methods to prevent or mitigate conflicts with wildlife. Assistance provided to the public or agency staff may be provided over the phone, in person, or in writing. Some fieldwork may occur but is not a regular component of this position. The successful candidate will occasionally represent the Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Program at outreach events by conducting presentations to citizen groups. The candidate may also conduct site visits and provide technical assistance, conflict mitigation strategies and loan equipment, as necessary. The Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Biologist works across multiple Divisions and Sections within FWC to coordinate management of human-wildlife conflict situations including those involving bears, coyotes, birds, and other wildlife species, network to establish clear communication across the agency about emerging wildlife issues, and assist with the implementation of response protocols for human-wildlife conflict situations in coordination with other FWC programs including the Division of Law Enforcement.

Requirements

• A high school diploma and 6 years professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program is required.
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First, applicants are required to submit a resume and cover letter highlighting their qualifications and expressing their interest in the position.
• Cover letters and resumes should be uploaded to the People First System.
• Applications without a cover letter and resume are deemed incomplete and will not be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of the biological sciences and scientific principles of wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation.
• Exemplary customer service skills and an ability to interface effectively with the public over the phone on a daily basis regarding sensitive topics.
• Ability to develop and effectively present educational outreach material to adult audiences.
• Skilled in the use of computers 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 well both independently and in a team-setting in a fast-paced work environment, accurately record data, and meet deadlines with minimal, remote supervision.
• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to effectively communicate and work with the public, stakeholder representatives and coworkers.
• Ability to safely operate a vehicle.
• Ability to travel overnight less than 25% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance to the public and other agencies on means to address human-wildlife conflicts and to promote strategies to coexist with wildlife.
• Maintain familiarity with prevalent conflict wildlife issues and continually identify and share best technical assistance practices and protocols as required.
• Provide coverage for other regional Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Biologists as needed.
• Maintain an accurate and thorough daily log of public correspondence via the Wildlife Impact Management System database.
• Participate in public outreach efforts as directed to increase appreciation for wildlife and address conflict wildlife abatement or other wildlife-related issues.
• Monitor inbox for incoming online conflict reports for queries that may require additional follow-up and respond with direct communication with stakeholders as needed.
• Occasionally support the FWC’s Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program’s management efforts through response activities.
• Remain up to date on Commission rules and regulations regarding protected wildlife, the take of wildlife, conflict wildlife abatement, and related issues.
• Other miscellaneous duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Be aware of and abide by the Commission's standards of conduct, as well as any and all Commission rules, directives, policies, procedures, and/or general orders applicable to performing the duties of this position.
• Courteously assist Commission constituents to resolve questions or problems they may have on matters relating to the Commission, its programs, or fish and wildlife conservation in general; and garner public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida's citizens in a positive and proactive manner.

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED