Requisition No: 804421
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I -FWC – 77907503
Position Number: 77907503
Salary: $17 per hour
Posting Closing Date: 07/01/2023
JOA for FWRI position: 77907503
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)
Section/Subsection: Marine Fisheries Research/Fisheries-Independent Monitoring
Location: Charlotte Harbor Field Lab, Port Charlotte, FL
Position(s) grant funded through December 31, 2024. Continued funding is contingent on future grant awards.
Job Description
Conduct all aspects of the Fisheries-Independent Monitoring (FIM) program with emphasis on directing and executing statistically valid research experiments and surveys in marine waters to evaluate relative stock abundance and condition of fish populations. Coordinate and conduct fisheries-independent sampling efforts following strict protocol; entering, proofing, and correcting associated data; maintaining and repairing needed field equipment. Complete fish and invertebrate identifications following strict QA/QC protocols using a microscope and/or video cameras. Deploy sampling gear inshore and offshore, including nets, cameras, side scan, and hooked gear. Process and manage collected data following defined procedures. Perform routine summaries of data generated from above studies and assist in preparing technical and scientific reports, oral presentations, and/or manuscripts based on fisheries independent monitoring results/analysis. Perform and participate in public outreach efforts, as appropriate. Perform other related work as required. This position requires field work on inshore research boats (<26 ft.) taking daily trips within the estuary and on offshore research vessels (36-100 ft.) requiring multiple days at sea and the ability to move heavy and cumbersome gear around the deck of the vessel. Minimum Requirements
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences. A valid driver’s license.
Preferred Experience
Applicants with the following experience may be given preference: Inshore and offshore fisheries sampling experience. Experience identifying fish using microscopes and underwater cameras. Experience mapping bottom habitats using side scan or multibeam sonars.
Knowledge, Skill(s), and Abilities
Knowledge of Florida juvenile and adult fish and invertebrate identification using dichotomous keys; of methods and gear used for collection of fisheries samples; of personal computers; of database software; of electronics and technology; of bottom habitats along the west Florida shelf; Skill to safely operate and trailer vessels up to 26′ in length; Ability to perform strenuous field duties in adverse conditions (e.g., inclement weather, rough water, boat engine exhaust, shoreline wading); to participate in frequent multi-day research cruises (up to 12 consecutive days); 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.