OPS-Fish & Wildlife Technician - 77900632

State of Florida•Jacksonville Beach, FL

11d•$17

About The Position

This position will be based in Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) North Central region (Nassau and Duval counties). Wildlife Surveys: Assist FWC biologists and partners in surveying nesting seabird and shorebird populations following monitoring protocols outlined in the Florida Shorebird Database (http://flshorebirddatabase.org). Surveys may also be required to be conducted independently. Collect related data on nest success and productivity. Collect information on predation (e.g., via track observation, remote camera deployment and data analysis). Enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database. Management Practices: Assist with posting regulatory signage for management at Critical Wildlife Areas and other priority shorebird nesting sites. Maintain signs that are posted around nesting sites throughout the season, especially immediately following storms or other disturbance events. This work often requires effective coordination with managers of the sites where posting is being conducted. Construct and maintain decoys and electric fencing at a social attraction site. Perform other related and necessary work as required. Stewardship: Responsible for maintaining posted signs to ensure areas are continuously protected. Approach beachgoers in a positive and friendly manner to effectively inform the public about beach-nesting birds and reasons why areas are posted, especially during times of high beach usage, such as Memorial and Independence Day weekends. Report violations to law enforcement as needed. The person hired in this position will work with biologists in the Wildlife Diversity Conservation Section to assist with the duties described above. Work for this position will be largely conducted at Critical Wildlife Areas (http://myfwc.com/conservation/terrestrial/cwa/) and other important beach and rooftop nesting sites in the Northeast (Anastasia State Park, Fort Matanzas National Monument, Summer Haven, Julia’s Island) region. Work for this position will begin in March and last through August. Candidates must have access to a computer for purposes of data entry and communications. A work vehicle will be provided. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Requirements

A high school diploma and 1year of post-high school experience in wildlife, fisheries, environmental, ecological or related agriculture or construction is required.
Vocational training or an associate’s degree in wildlife, fisheries, environmental, ecological or related agriculture or construction from an accredited school or college may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.
A resume and cover letter describing your interest in this position and your relevant experience must be attached to the electronic State of Florida employment application.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
Eligible candidates must possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

Experience working for a natural resource management agency preferred.
Must have strong sea- and shorebird identification skills and strong data management skills.
Experience working on the ecology, conservation, or management of seabird or shorebird populations, or other non-game wildlife species preferred.
Must have good abilities to communicate and work effectively with others.
Ability to use computers efficiently is required.
Must possess a valid Driver’s License and be able to drive a 4x4 pick-up truck and ATV.
Must have a highly flexible work schedule (including weekend availability) and be able to work effectively with little direct supervision, in remote locations, and under hot and humid weather conditions.

Responsibilities

Assist FWC biologists and partners in surveying nesting seabird and shorebird populations following monitoring protocols outlined in the Florida Shorebird Database
Collect related data on nest success and productivity.
Collect information on predation (e.g., via track observation, remote camera deployment and data analysis).
Enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database.
Assist with posting regulatory signage for management at Critical Wildlife Areas and other priority shorebird nesting sites.
Maintain signs that are posted around nesting sites throughout the season, especially immediately following storms or other disturbance events.
Construct and maintain decoys and electric fencing at a social attraction site.
Responsible for maintaining posted signs to ensure areas are continuously protected.
Approach beachgoers in a positive and friendly manner to effectively inform the public about beach-nesting birds and reasons why areas are posted, especially during times of high beach usage, such as Memorial and Independence Day weekends.
Report violations to law enforcement as needed.