OPS- F & W BS III - 77905000

State of Florida•Tequesta, FL

8d•$23•Onsite

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. Description of duties: The Wildlife Diversity Conservation Section has an exciting opportunity for a Bald Eagle and Snail Kite Biologist to become part of a diverse conservation group. This position plays a key role coordinating bald eagle and snail kite conservation internally and with external partners. Coordination involves multidisciplinary teamwork to tackle issues related to habitat management, water level coordination, research, data management, enforcement, and disease. These efforts facilitate implementation of related conservation plans, including the Bald Eagle Monitoring Plan, Snail Kite Federal Recovery Plan, and State Wildlife Action Plan. There will also be outreach opportunities that may require virtual and/or in-person communication of technical information to a variety of audiences. This is a full-time, office assigned position. The work schedule is limited to 40 hours per week. The position entails office work as well as field work. Some travel for field work and partner meetings is likely.

Requirements

Knowledge of avian ecology, wetland ecology and conservation. Familiarity with state and national conservation programs such as the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and Federal Endangered Species Act.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communications skills. Able to express thoughts clearly and concisely in writing and when speaking with partners and the public.
Skilled in promoting professional relationships. Able to maintain an enthusiastic and professional demeanor.
Well-developed problem-solving skills. Self-motivated and able to complete quality work on time.
Proficiency with the suite of Microsoft programs and GIS software.
Excellent skills in time management and data management. Able to organize information and details while managing multiple tasks effectively and efficiently with varying deadlines.
Strong ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Able to work effectively in a collaborative team environment with other agency staff members, partners, and stakeholders.
Able to identify and take advantage of crossover opportunities for conservation between bald eagles and snail kites.
Able to conduct monitoring activities outdoors, to safely operate vehicles, including watercraft, and occasionally work in potentially uncomfortable field conditions.
Eligible candidates must possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License.
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.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences, preferably in natural resource conservation, ecology, environmental science, or a closely related field.
A Master’s degree in one of the listed fields is strongly preferred.
Ability to operate an airboat is a plus.

Responsibilities

Disseminate important ecological information pertinent to focal species to habitat managers.
Field questions from the public and provide outreach pertaining to focal species.
Advise habitat managers on best practices to benefit focal species in their areas.
Contribute as a member of various inter and intra agency groups to provide wholistic input on habitat management of various aquatic systems across the state.
Produce annual reports for internal and external agency groups that summarize conservation work being done for focal species.
Collaborate as part of an avian team to further bird conservation across the state.
Support field research on focal species and other avian species.
Become certified to operate FWC airboats safely and independently, if not already certified.