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Form of workRequisition No: 818934
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - FWC - 77907580
Pay Plan: Temp
Position Number: 77907580
Salary: $17 - $18 per hour, depending on experience
Posting Closing Date: 01/15/2024
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This OPS position is funded by a ten year federal grant, subject to annual renewal.
Job Description
Conduct all aspects of the Fisheries-Independent Monitoring (FIM) program with emphasis on executing statistically valid research experiments and surveys in rivers, bays, and nearshore waters to evaluate relative stock abundance and condition of fish populations. Conduct fisheries-independent sampling efforts following strict protocol; entering, proofing, and correcting associated data. Conduct fieldwork to collect water samples, fish tissue samples, sediment samples, etc., to aid in the ecological assessment of Florida's inshore waters. Maintain and repair all field sampling equipment, including nets and accessory gear, water quality instruments, tool boxes, PFDs, safety equipment, and first aid kits. Assist in the routine maintenance and repair of trucks, boats, and trailers. Complete fish and invertebrate identifications following strict QA/QC protocols using a microscope and dichotomous keys. Perform and participate in public outreach efforts, as appropriate. Perform other related work as required. This position requires extensive inshore field work on FWC research vessels with numerous trips every week.
Minimum Requirements
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences.
*4 years professional experience in a direct related biological field or laboratory program can substitute for the required bachelor's degree; additional years of experience as described above are also required
Preferred Experience
Applicants with the following experience may be given preference: Experience with collecting scientific fisheries data from the estuaries of Florida.
Preferred Knowledge, Skill(s), and Abilities
Knowledge of freshwater, estuarine, and offshore fish life history; of methods and gear used for collection of marine fisheries samples; of personal computers; of database software; of electronics and technology; Skill to safely operate and trailer vessels up to 26' in length; Ability to use dichotomous keys for fish identification; to perform strenuous field duties in adverse conditions (e.g. inclement weather, rough water, boat engine exhaust, shoreline wading); to handle and process fish; to collect and summarize fisheries data; to prepare technical reports and communicate effectively verbally and in writing; to establish and maintain effective working relationships; to work both independently and on a team; work hours in excess of 40 per week; maintain a valid driver's license; and complete a boater safety course.
This position requires the candidate to have successful completion of a level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate prior to hire.
WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?
- State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory
- Workers' Compensation - mandatory
- Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory
- Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements. Consult with People First or the servicing Human Resource Office for details.)
- Deferred Compensation - voluntary
- Employee Assistance Program - voluntary
WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?
- Any form of paid leave
- Paid holidays
- Participation in the Florida Retirement System
- Reinstatement rights or retention rights
The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.
Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.
The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.
