OPS Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Sci IV - 77909126

State of Florida•TALLAHASSEE, FL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Biological Scientist IV works within the Invasive Plant Management Section of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation. Based in Tallahassee, Florida, the position has a statewide operational focus and serves as a research liaison to help translate invasive plant research into large-scale management. The employee will connect researchers and field biologists, implement field trials of innovative management techniques, and expand the use of biological control as a supplemental management strategy. The position also supports projects such as 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 role includes attending regional and divisional meetings and training programs, and may require travel for several days at a time within Florida. Employment is contingent on a satisfactory criminal history record check. Florida residency is required. The position offers limited benefits as applicable to OPS employees; paid leave, paid holidays, participation in the Florida Retirement System, and reinstatement or retention rights are not applicable.

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.
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.
Experience with public speaking.
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 identifying plants and controlling invasive species.
Florida residency.

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.

Responsibilities

Serve as a liaison between invasive plant researchers and field biologists to support practical 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 throughout Florida.
Interact professionally with researchers, the public, and other partners and provide accurate information concerning invasive plant species and infested-area conditions.
Attend regional and divisional meetings and training programs.
Accurately record data and meet deadlines.