Biologist II - Public Works

General Description

Provides intermediate to principle work for the Public Works Environmental Division in biological services, natural systems assessment, and specialized environmental work.

Essential Job Functions

• Knowledge and understanding of Florida ecosystems as to their components, functions, key characteristics, and management principles along with associated County, State, and Federal regulations
• Possess the ability to identify upland and wetland biota
• Be familiar with state and federal listed species protections, water quality sampling protocols, and ecological systems
• May provide lead work on special projects that focus specifically on biological services
• Projects may require long-term project management, sensitive deadlines, contract negotiations, task orders, purchasing, invoicing, and coordination with other departments and/or agencies
• Develops and implements natural systems and water quality surveys on various projects
• Maintain data resulting from surveys, and produce documentation as needed
• Assists in the development, coordination and implementation of natural systems management, habitat, and restoration plans
• Environmental management work to include performing manual tasks with hand and power tools, boats, scuba, and application of mechanical and chemical invasive plant treatments
• Obtains relevant certifications including state issued herbicide applicator certification
• Assists in collecting, tracking, and maintaining natural resources data to be utilized in geographic information systems (GIS)
• Analyze, manipulate, and confirm GIS data to produce data sets, maps, reports and other documentation
• Produces timely, professional and concise memorandums, reports and other job-related documentation and correspondence
• Develops and supervises Environmental staff in the management of ENV program such as Pond & Lake Management and natural systems surveys
• Provides technical support to Environmental Division manager, management plans and survey/study design plans
• Ensures all grant and mitigation projects are in compliance with local, state and federal government regulations
• Provides technical support for current and future capital projects
• Oversight of biological and natural systems aspects of capital projects
• Oversight of contractor work in the field
• Production of comprehensive site narratives
• Coordination with State and Federal agencies on environmental projects

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and understanding of Florida habitats as to their components, functions, identification parameters, and management principles
• Knowledge of various environmental regulations of State, and Federal agencies with similar, or related authority
• Ability to identify upland and wetland biota with special emphasis on sensitive or invasive plant and animal species
• Ability to identify, plan and implement restoration and management principles
• Able to work proficiently in GIS
• Ability to read for comprehension
• Ability to use GPS
• Ability to operate a County vehicle both on and off road
• Ability to tow and operate boats of various sizes
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and also push or pull heavy objects

Minimum Requirements

Physical Skills: May have to carry various field equipment for extended periods. Requires working outdoors in natural environments for extended periods and in varying weather conditions. Requires walking, stooping, and bending. Ability to communicate effectively using verbal, written and visual communication.

Education, Training and Experience: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science or related field and four (4) years of experience in a position related to natural resource management OR a Master's Degree and two (2) years of experience.

Licenses, Certifications or Registrations: Must possess a valid Florida driver's license. Must obtain a Natural Areas Applicator License within one (1) year from date of hire. Must obtain a SCUBA certification within one (1) year from date of hire.