OPS Biological Scientist I - 77907236
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. This position involves conducting recreational angler surveys at boat docks, public boat ramps, piers and other fishing sites, measuring, weighing, and identifying recreational catches to species, and collecting samples from marine fish for stock assessments and genetic analysis. The project work is paid for through state and federal funds which are subject to annual renewals and appropriations. Funding is guaranteed through fiscal year 24/25, with continued funding dependent on the extension of the project or on new grants or funding being awarded.
Requirements
- 4 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program or a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences
- Satisfactory Level 1 background check
- Knowledge of fish morphology and identification of marine fishes to species
- Knowledge of statistical survey sampling methods, data collection, and data entry
- Ability to communicate with the public effectively and with diplomacy
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and with minimum supervision
- Ability to gather, maintain, and analyze data in an effective and organized manner
- Ability to think logically and apply problem-solving techniques
- Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
- Ability to operate a personal computer
- Ability to use Microsoft applications including Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel
- Maintain a valid driver’s license
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences
- Direct knowledge of fisheries
- Experience identifying finfish to species
- Relevant experience working in marine fisheries monitoring programs
Responsibilities
- Conduct recreational angler surveys at boat docks, public boat ramps, piers and other fishing sites
- Measure, weigh, and identify recreational catches to species
- Collect samples from marine fish for stock assessments and genetic analysis
- Prepare and deliver data in a timely manner
- Work a flexible schedule that includes working on weekends and holidays
- Communicate with the public effectively and with diplomacy
- Work effectively as part of a team and with minimum supervision
- Maintain field sampling equipment
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with vessel captains and site owners/operators
- Work on/near the water and in adverse conditions
- Use a personal computer to send emails, participate in meetings, prepare for assignments, and perform other work-related tasks as needed
- Maintain frequent contact with field staff and supervisors
- Check email a minimum of three times a week and respond in a timely fashion
- Maintain a valid driver’s license and perform frequent day-time travel using your personal vehicle (with mileage reimbursement) throughout Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Levy, Dixie and Taylor Counties, with occasional opportunities to travel to other regions of Florida as needed
- Participation in public outreach efforts as appropriate
- Perform other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by section supervisor
Benefits
- 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
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
