F&W Biological Scientist III

Hourly rate of pay: $21.63. This is a full-time (40 hrs/week, 8 am–5 pm, Monday–Friday) position based at Russell Park, Tallahassee, FL, with occasional overnight travel. Residency in the Leon County area is required.

About the Agency

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and where natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy. FWC’s mission is managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. The agency values science-informed, efficient, ethical, and collaborative decision-making committed to the vitality of the state and its environment. This position is in the Imperiled Species Management Section within the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma and six years of professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program.
• A Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the six years of experience.
• A Graduate Degree in a relevant field can substitute for two of the six years of experience.

Preferred qualifications include previous experience with sea turtle lighting, sea turtle management, or State of Florida permitting/regulatory programs; a Bachelor of Science degree in a life or physical science; and experience with ArcGIS/Pro, MS Office, and MS SharePoint.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of terminology, principles, and techniques used in biological research, analysis, or testing.
• Knowledge of the scientific method and conservation biology principles.
• Knowledge of data collection methods, particularly for imperiled or endangered species.
• Knowledge of wildlife conservation and management principles, strategies, and regulations.
• Ability to learn, understand, and apply highly detailed technical information.
• Ability to perform quantitative analysis of scientific data and utilize problem-solving techniques.
• Strong administrative, communication, and computer skills, including proficiency with creating and conducting presentations.
• Skill in the use of scientific laboratory and field equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with a variety of audiences.
• Ability to write technical reports and agency correspondence clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work independently and on teams.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, the public, and stakeholders.
• Ability to speak publicly and conduct outreach to various audiences.
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work assignments to meet deadlines with minimal oversight.
• Ability to initiate, manage, and lead meetings.

Additional Requirements

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to participate in limited statewide travel are required.

Responsibilities

• Review, evaluate, and approve lighting plans for coastal construction for state authorizations; participate in pre-construction meetings, pre- and post-construction inspections, and meetings with agency and property/project representatives.
• Develop and improve the agency's light management recommendations; create and present educational and training workshops for internal and external audiences.
• Research and evaluate existing and emerging lighting technologies to maintain expertise in wildlife lighting issues.
• Provide technical assistance to other FWC Sections, as well as to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Army Corps of Engineers, Port Authorities, and county/city governments.
• Participate in all aspects of the Wildlife Lighting Certification Program, including wildlife lighting certification program fixture testing, coordination with lighting manufacturers, and maintenance of certification webpages and databases.
• Initiate, manage, or attend meetings, workshops, and create/deliver presentations.
• Assist with management of the Agency's Project Tracking System.
• Draft biological opinions for permits and other regulatory or planning authorizations such as Environmental Resource Permitting (ERP), Coastal Construction Control Line permits (CCCL), Sovereign Submerged Lands Leases (SSL), Joint Coastal Permits (JCP), various management plans, comprehensive plan amendments, and State Clearinghouse under Coastal Zone Management Program (CZMP).
• Assist with Section information and outreach projects.
• Assist with field activities (e.g., marine turtle stranding, ground truthing, hatch success evaluations, nourishment research).
• Perform other duties as directed.