Requisition No: 812630
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS F&W Biological Scientist II – 77907663
Position Number: 77907663
Salary: $18.50/Hour
Posting Closing Date: 10/08/2023
Open Competitive Opportunity
DIVISION: Fish and Wildlfire Research Institute (FWRI)
SECTION: Marine Fisheries Research/Marine Finfish Biology
SUPERVISOR: Alexis Trotter
This position is funded by a grant which ends of 6/30/2025.
DUTIES AND RESPOSIBILITIES:
Conduct fisheries sampling including hook-and-line fishing, diving, electrofishing, and collection of biological specimens.
Tasks will include collecting data following defined procedures; coordinating with recreational anglers to obtain data and biological samples; planning and conducting electrofishing and hook-and-line field trips, with associated biological sampling; extensive laboratory duties including removal and processing of otoliths and tissues for histological and genetic analysis, staging of reproductive phase, determination of age from young-of-the-year otoliths, and other duties as related to the age, growth, mortality, and reproductive biology of fishes; tagging various fish with both internal acoustic and external dart tags and maintenance of acoustic arrays; safe operation and maintenance of boats, trailers, and field equipment; entering, proofing, correcting, and archiving data using database software; analyzing data and preparing reports, data summaries, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.
This position may require travel, training, and an extended field sampling schedule that includes working in potentially extreme field conditions with exposure to sun and heat, insects, and dangerous wildlife. This position may include collaboration with various FWRI research groups and projects and participation in public outreach events. Must be able to work well independently and as part of a team.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; or a master’s degree from an accredited college or university 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 expeience as described above are also required.
Valid driver’s license
Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results from a Level 1 Background Check prior to hire at no cost to the candidate.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of the terminology, principles and techniques used in biological field and laboratory research. Experience in fisheries sampling methods and data collection procedures. Ability to: identify fresh and saltwater fish occurring in the Gulf of Mexico coast of Florida; trailer and operate small boats, up to 21′; sustain a high level of organization and attention to detail in a scientific field and laboratory setting; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships; perform biological sampling activities under various field conditions, including heavy lifting; maintain a valid driver’s license. Skill in the use of personal computers, electronics and technology, including the Microsoft Office suite. Preference may be given to applicants with scientific diving experience.
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 – voluntary (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.