OPS F&W Biological Scientist III - 77901144

State of Florida•TALLAHASSEE, FL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Wildlife Impact Management (WIM) Section is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to serve as an OPS Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Permitting Specialist. The successful candidate will be responsible for receiving, reviewing, and processing applications for nonnative fish and wildlife permits, including, but not limited to, Conditional, Prohibited, and Nonnative Species permits. This role requires a thorough understanding of and the ability to communicate Florida Administrative Code rules and Florida Statutes associated with the WIM Section's permitting programs. The incumbent is expected to provide courteous, professional service to applicants and other stakeholders while ensuring permits are processed accurately and efficiently. In addition to permitting responsibilities, the specialist will contribute to technical writing projects and presentations related to the WIM Section's work. This position offers the opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team while addressing complex and evolving nonnative species management issues. The incumbent is expected to ensure that all permits are issued or denied in accordance with FWC rules and policies and all applicable Florida Statutes. This position works closely and effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including FWC's Division of Law Enforcement, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, pet industry representatives, and other state and federal agencies. The incumbent may also represent FWC at internal or public meetings, workshops, and professional conferences. In addition, the incumbent may serve on or help lead agency teams and participate in interagency work groups.

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.
A valid driver’s license 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.
Thorough understanding of and ability to communicate Florida Administrative Code rules and Florida Statutes associated with the WIM Section's permitting programs.
Ability to provide courteous, professional service to applicants and other stakeholders while ensuring permits are processed accurately and efficiently.
Awareness of and adherence to 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.
Garner public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida's citizens in a positive and proactive manner.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated skill in public speaking and written and verbal communications
Demonstrated skill in excellent customer service
Ability to stay organized and meet deadlines
Familiarity with nonnative species issues
Ability to work well in a fast-paced work environment and adhere to time constraints
Technical writing ability
Ability to positively and effectively communicate with stakeholders and coworkers
Demonstrated working knowledge and experience in permitting
Ability to identify native and nonnative wildlife species
Ability to communicate complex and technical information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences
Ability to multi-task as well as work without close supervision when needed
Computer experience (MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and SharePoint)
Ability to travel less than 25%

Responsibilities

Receiving, reviewing, and processing applications for nonnative fish and wildlife permits, including, but not limited to, Conditional, Prohibited, and Nonnative Species permits.
Providing presentations and engaging in in-reach/outreach initiatives.
Providing technical assistance for stakeholders.
Assisting with writing quarterly and annual reports in a timely manner.
Ensuring that all permits are issued or denied in accordance with FWC rules and policies and all applicable Florida Statutes.
Representing FWC at internal or public meetings, workshops, and professional conferences.
Serving on or helping lead agency teams and participating in interagency work groups.
Other miscellaneous duties as assigned by supervisor.