Coastal Environmental Lead: Habitat & Parks Oversight

RiseMe; Nokomis (FL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life Insurance

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

Flexible Spending Accounts

Florida Retirement System (FRS)

11 paid holidays

3 personal days

16 paid vacation days in first year

Job summary

Sarasota County Government seeks an Environmental Specialist III to lead environmental resource management in coastal areas and supervise landscape contractors, ensuring safe, clean, and visually appealing park spaces.

You will manage land and waterway projects, coordinate with agencies, and support vegetation control and education efforts, contributing to community resilience and conservation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a related field and 3 years of professional experience.
• Master’s degree may substitute for one year of professional experience.
• State of Florida pesticide applicator license with Natural Areas endorsement or ability to obtain within 6 months after hire.
• Pre-employment substance screening required.

Responsibilities

• Lead habitat improvement projects, invasive species control, ecological surveys, park improvements, derelict vessel removal, and artificial reef initiatives.
• Serve as liaison with internal departments and external agencies regarding derelict vessels, waterway access, and navigation issues and improvements.
• Maintain field equipment (boats, GPS, small equipment) and assist in prescribed fire operations as needed.
• Develop and distribute environmental education materials and provide public outreach and technical assistance.
• Inspect landscape maintenance work performed by contractors at Siesta Beach Park for quality, safety, and contract compliance.
• Submit or verify work orders, review payment justifications, and assist in landscape-related project planning.

Skills

Environmental science experience

Field survey & habitat management

Contract oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or related field

Master’s degree may substitute for one year of experience

Tools

Florida pesticide license (Natural Areas endorsement)

Coast Guard boater safety certifications

Lawn and Ornamental applicator endorsement

Wildland fire S-130/S-190 certifications

Scuba diving certification

Job description

Sarasota County Government seeks an Environmental Specialist III to lead environmental resource management in coastal areas and supervise landscape contractors, ensuring safe, clean, and visually appealing park spaces.

You will manage land and waterway projects, coordinate with agencies, and support vegetation control and education efforts, contributing to community resilience and conservation.