Requisition No: 803304
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS Research Associate-FWC – 77900792
Position Number: 77900792
Salary: $17.00 Per Hour
Posting Closing Date: 06/12/2023
The Marine Fisheries Research Section of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), is seeking qualified applicants for an OPS Research Associate position in its Marine Fisheries Biology research program at the Tequesta Field Laboratory. We are seeking highly qualified applicants with knowledge and research experience in fisheries biology.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Conduct biological research on aspects of Florida’s marine resources. Participate in field and laboratory research involving both inshore and offshore aquatic habitat systems to evaluate age and growth, movement patterns, and reproductive biology of the species under investigation. Research includes both above water and underwater sampling procedures (requires participation in SCUBA diving). Organize and maintain scientific collection records including preparation of field sheets for processing, data entry, and proofing. Assist in the management of project databases and help principal investigators conduct analysis of data. Assist in the preparation of reports to grant agencies, fishery managers, other scientists, and stakeholders. Promote marine conservation interests of Florida through collaborative research efforts, stakeholder coordination, and outreach events at the local and state level as appropriate. Perform other work as required.
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
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Valid Driver’s License
Successful completion of FWC trailer towing course, boating safety course (from a recognized training agency), and First Aid, CPR (with AED) and O2 Administration (from a recognized training agency).
Successful completion of American Academy of Underwater Science (AAUS) dive certification.
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. Valid Driver’s License.
** Preference may be given to candidates that have Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in marine fisheries or closely related field, or have demonstrated mastery of the scientific method through field operations management, co-authorships in the peer-reviewed literature and presentations at scientific conferences. Candidates with experience as a scientific diver and are currently SCUBA certified (through a recognized training agency) may be given preference as well.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of: Florida’s fisheries (particularly gamefishes) including life history, ecology and stakeholder involvement; principles and techniques used in scientific research; fish identification; methods and gears used for the collection of fisheries samples; Field research preparation; use of personal computers and database, statistical analysis and geospatial software; safety protocol, and emergency response procedures.
Skilled in: the use and maintenance of scientific laboratory, acoustic monitoring, and field equipment; SCUBA diving and underwater research techniques; how to properly handle various fish species; and data management.
Ability to: work independently or as part of a team; perform strenuous field duties in adverse conditions including heavy lifting, acquire and maintain scientific diver credentials (AAUS), assist in the preparation of technical reports and scientific manuscripts, effectively communicate both verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; deal effectively with the public; maintain a valid driver’s license; safely trailer, operate and maintain research vessels less than 28′ in length; and work hours in excess of 40 per week.
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.