F & W Biological Scientist III - 77070316

Science Technology Engineering And Mathematics; Tallahassee (FL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in Tallahassee seeks a Biological Scientist III to review permit applications and develop biological opinions protecting Florida manatees and marine turtles. The role involves environmental permitting, regulatory oversight, and expert witness duties in hearings.

The position requires a BS in a relevant field or a strong mix of experience, with strong analytical, administrative, and communication skills, plus travel across the state as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field with substantial scientific experience.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting of biological information.
• Strong administrative, communication, and computer skills including common MS tools.

Responsibilities

• Review permit applications and develop biological opinions to minimize impacts on protected species.
• Provide technical assistance to other agencies and participate in environmental permitting processes.
• Implement manatee protection plans and contribute to regulatory activities and hearings.

Skills

Biological research principles

Data collection methods

Administrative skills

ArcPro

MS Office

Education

Bachelor of Science in biological field

High school diploma + 6 years experience

Tools

ArcPro

MS Office

MS SharePoint

Job description

This Biological Scientist III position, based in Tallahassee, supports the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Imperiled Species Management Section. The role focuses on reviewing permit applications and developing biological opinions to minimize impacts to protected species, particularly Florida manatees and marine turtles, through environmental resource permitting and regulatory authorization processes. The position includes technical assistance to other agencies, implementation of manatee protection plans, meeting management, and expert witness duties in administrative hearings.

Key qualifications:

• High school diploma and 6 years professional experience in a closely related biological field, or Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field (substitutes 4 years of experience)
• Knowledge of biological research principles, data collection methods, and conservation biology
• Strong administrative, communication, and computer skills (ArcPro, MS Office, MS SharePoint preferred)
• Ability to perform quantitative analysis of scientific data and write technical reports
• Valid driver's license and ability to participate in limited statewide travel
• Previous experience with State of Florida permitting programs and/or Florida manatee or marine turtle management programs highly desired