OPS Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Sci IV - 77909126
About The Position
This OPS Biological Scientist IV position is based in Tallahassee, Florida, with a statewide operational focus in the Invasive Plant Management Section of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation. The role serves as a research liaison, helping translate invasive plant research findings into practical, large-scale management by connecting researchers and field biologists. The position implements field trials of innovative management techniques and expands the use of biological control as a supplemental management strategy. It may also assist with researching, planning, developing, and maintaining other projects, including surveying and mapping early detection rapid response (EDRR) species across Florida. The employee works independently in the field and interacts professionally with researchers, the public, and other partners, providing accurate information about invasive plant species and infested-area conditions. The position attends regional and divisional meetings and training programs. It requires a valid Florida driver’s license and may involve travel for several days at a time throughout Florida, with overnight travel not exceeding 25% of working hours. The position pays $26.35 per hour for 1,920 hours per fiscal year and is scheduled for 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is an OPS position with limited benefits. Employment is contingent on a satisfactory criminal history record check. No subordinates are supervised.
Requirements
- High school diploma and seven 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.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced work environment.
- Ability to accurately record data and meet deadlines.
- Knowledge of invasive plant management principles and practices.
- Understanding of basic scientific research principles and practices.
- Ability to understand and apply rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to plant management.
- Familiarity with nonnative species issues.
- Demonstrated technical writing ability.
- Public speaking experience.
- Experience working with the public and/or stakeholder representatives.
- Ability to travel for several days at a time throughout Florida on occasion.
- Valid Florida driver’s license.
- Comfort working independently in the field.
- Experience trailering and operating boats and ATVs.
- Experience with plant identification and invasive species control.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in a life or physical science.
- Experience conducting or assisting with invasive plant research.
- Knowledge of biological control and experience rearing insects.
- Good organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Experience with herbicide applications.
- Experience conducting scientific experiments in a field setting.
- Experience operating drones.
- Experience driving outboard boats and airboats.
- Experience trailering boats and other equipment.
- Ability to identify native and non-native plants in Florida.
- Experience presenting information to the public and/or professional peer groups.
Responsibilities
- Serve as a research liaison to help translate invasive plant research findings into practical, large-scale management.
- Connect researchers and field biologists to support application of research findings.
- Implement field trials of innovative invasive plant management techniques.
- Expand the use of biological control as a supplemental management strategy.
- Assist with researching, planning, developing, and maintaining other projects as needed, including surveying and mapping EDRR species.
- Provide accurate information to researchers, the public, and partners about invasive plant species and infested-area conditions.
- Attend regional and divisional meetings and training programs.
- Accurately record data and meet deadlines.
Benefits
- Mandatory State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan.
- Mandatory workers’ compensation.
- Mandatory reemployment assistance (unemployment compensation).
- Participation in state group insurance, subject to eligibility requirements.
- Voluntary deferred compensation.
- Voluntary Employee Assistance Program.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
