FISHERIES & WILDLIFE BIO SCIENTIST III - 77000506

State of Florida•Pensacola, FL

About The Position

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy. Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself. The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment. The Division of Habitat & Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices. This position works within the Aquatic Habitat Conservation and Restoration Section of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.

Requirements

A high school diploma and 6 years professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program is required.
A Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the 6 years of required experience.
Knowledge of coastal, estuarine and marine ecosystems
Ability to identify opportunities for and conduct aquatic (marine and estuarine) habitat restoration
Knowledge of terminology, principles, and techniques used in aquatic resource management or habitat restoration
Knowledge of data collection methods
Ability to collect, record, and analyze scientific data relating to the biological sciences
Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Ability to write technical reports
Ability to pursue grant funding for restoration projects
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, the public and other stakeholders
Ability to work independently
Ability to occasionally travel
Knowledge of personal computers and related software (proficiency in the use of GPS hardware and GIS software is preferred)
Proficient in small boat and trailer handling
The ability to spend long hours in and on the water in various weather conditions on a year-round basis.
Physical stamina to perform rigorous activities in aquatic environments.
The ability to effectively swim and be comfortable in the water.
Valid state driver’s license required.

Nice To Haves

A Bachelor of Science degree in one of the biological sciences and three years of professional biological experience.
At least one year of professional wetland conservation experience and at least one year of project leader experience in conservation programs are strongly preferred.
A Master of Science degree in one of the biological sciences is strongly preferred.
SCUBA open water or advanced open water certification and Boater’s Safety certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies and stakeholder groups to identify, develop, and implement wetland and aquatic habitat restoration and enhancement projects.
Pursue grant funding for identified aquatic habitat restoration and enhancement projects and with internal and external organization partners. Manage awarded grants to implement projects.
Procure necessary state and federal permits, develop bid documents and contracts, and provide contract management and contractor oversight of approved aquatic habitat projects.
Participate in and provide input to internal and external groups to address issues such as non-native species, resource conservation, environmental resource permitting, public outreach and imperiled species as they relate to aquatic habitat.
Assist in wetland and aquatic habitat monitoring and sampling to evaluate and predict environmental response to project activities in coordination with other FWC personnel and external partners.
Create and maintain databases of collected scientific data and maps of project areas using appropriate computer software, including GPS hardware and GIS programs. Prepare, publish and present project management plans and relevant project findings through internal (reports and management plans) and external (peer-reviewed publications, professional and public meeting, etc.) outlets related to aquatic habitat conservation activities including, but not limited to, restoration projects, resource monitoring and biological resource surveys.
Provide oral presentations regarding FWC’s aquatic habitat restoration and enhancement efforts in the Northwest region from Perdido Key through the Steinhatchee River estuary.
Process or approve, as appropriate, vendor invoices for payment of goods received or services rendered. Responsible for adhering to the provisions and requirements of Section 215.422, F.S., related to State Comptroller’s rules and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures.
Maintain and operate all assigned vehicles, boats, and field and laboratory equipment in working condition.
Work independently with limited supervision. Travel within the region, and occasionally to other regions, to complete job duties and support AHCR projects.
Perform other project-related duties and tasks as directed by supervisor.
Acquire and maintain FWC Scientific SCUBA and Airboat/Vessel Operation certification.

Benefits

This is a full-time employment position that is eligible for all career service state employee benefits including paid leave, health insurance, retirement benefits, tuition waivers for continuing education and numerous agency trainings for professional development.

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