OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - F - 77900857

State of Florida • Port Orange, FL

5d • $19

About The Position

Fisheries Dependent Monitoring (FDM) works directly with anglers to collect fisheries data across the state.  FDM is seeking a 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:
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;
Maintaining accurate fishing site information, including pressure, modes, and location;
Processing field and laboratory samples following standardized protocols;
Gathering detailed information on fish caught and released by recreational anglers;
Calling captains for the For-Hire Telephone Survey, collecting trip information;
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; and
Performing other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by section supervisor.

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 position requires direct contact with the public and representatives of the fishing industry daily, and the qualified applicant will be expected to represent the Agency in a courteous and professional manner at all times. Applicants will be expected to work as part of a team and must also be able to work independently without supervision while adhering to specific deadlines and targets. The position will be home-based in Flagler or Volusia County, FL. This position requires frequent daytime travel throughout Volusia, Brevard, St. Johns, and Flagler counties and will require travel to other regions of Florida as needed.  The applicant must live in Volusia (preferred) or Flagler Counties. The position also requires applicants to use their own vehicle to perform their job duties, with travel reimbursements available (at 44.5 cents/mile).

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 possess and maintain a valid minimum Class E State of Florida driver’s license and use of reliable transportation.
• Applicant must be able to lift at least 40 lbs.
• 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 Keep accurate records of hours worked and travel mileage accrued
• Ability to Follow standardized protocols and procedures
• Ability to Think logically and apply problem-solving techniques
• Ability to Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing regularly with supervisors and team
• 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
• Maintaining accurate fishing site information, including pressure, modes, and location
• Processing field and laboratory samples following standardized protocols
• Gathering detailed information on fish caught and released by recreational anglers
• Calling captains for the For-Hire Telephone Survey, collecting trip information
• 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)

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level