OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - F - 77990831
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. Fisheries Dependent Monitoring (FDM) works directly with anglers to collect fisheries data across the state. FDM is seeking a seasonal candidate to conduct directed research and monitoring of recreational fisheries in East Central Florida by assisting with new and ongoing marine recreational fishing surveys. Duties will include but are not limited to:
Requirements
- 4 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required; or
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience.
- Applicant must maintain a valid driver’s license and use of reliable transportation.
- Applicant must be able to lift at least 40 lbs.
- Responses to qualifying questions should be verifiable by skills and/or experience stated on the profile application/resume/cover letter.
- Position is Seasonal with employment from April 2026 through August 2026.
- This position requires the ability to work a flexible work schedule of 30-40 hours per week (variable by week) and will require working weekends (Friday- Sunday) and holidays.
- The applicant must live in one of the counties mentioned.
- This position may also require applicants to use their own vehicle to perform their job duties, with travel reimbursements available (at 44.5 cents/mile).
- Knowledge of Fish morphology and identification of marine fishes to species
- Knowledge of Statistical survey sampling methods and data collection.
- Ability to Communicate with the public effectively utilizing tact and diplomacy
- Ability to Gather, maintain and analyze data
- Ability to Maintain field sampling equipment
- Ability to Establish and preserve effective work relationships
- Ability to Operate a tablet and computer along with associated software, such as spreadsheets and word processing
- Ability to Think logically and apply problem-solving techniques
- Ability to Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Ability to Multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines
- Ability to Act on changing priorities and responsibilities
- Ability to Work under adverse conditions
- Ability to Work weekends and holidays as needed.
Nice To Haves
- Preference may be given to individuals with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college with a major in biological/marine sciences and those individuals demonstrating direct knowledge of fisheries, experience identifying finfish to species, and experience working in marine fisheries monitoring programs.
- Relevant marine-related experience preferred.
Responsibilities
- Conducting dockside interviews with recreational anglers to gather data on catch rates, effort, gear, and area fished
- Sampling fish dockside to collect accurate length and weight measurements and biological samples for age, growth, and reproduction
- Processing field and laboratory samples following standardized protocols
- Gathering detailed information on fish caught and release by recreational anglers
- Conducting data entry using tablets, personal computers, and database software
- Troubleshooting equipment and reviewing data for quality assurance
- Participating in public outreach efforts as appropriate
- Performing other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by section supervisor
Benefits
- Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions.
- Health Premiums $25.00- Single / $90.00- Family Biweekly
- Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance
- OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan
- On the Job Trainings
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
