FISHERIES & WILDLIFE BIO SCIENTIST III - 77073282

State of Florida; Christmas (FL); Remote; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits at a forward-thinking agency dedicated to wildlife conservation. As the Lead Area Biologist, you'll manage over 1,650 acres of vital habitats, ensuring the well-being of non-game and imperiled species. This role involves coordinating habitat restoration, applying prescribed fire, and engaging with various stakeholders, including state and federal agencies. If you're passionate about ecology and wildlife management, this position offers a platform to make a significant impact on Florida's natural resources while enjoying a supportive work environment that values your contributions.

Benefits

Group health insurance

Participation in Florida Retirement System (FRS)

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent experience in relevant field.
• 4 years of relevant experience may substitute for degree.

Responsibilities

• Lead habitat management for 1,650 acres in Florida.
• Coordinate prescribed fire and manage invasive species.
• Interact with public and partners professionally.

Skills

Verbal and written communication skills

Ecology and wildlife management principles

Knowledge of Florida's species

Prescribed fire and fire ecology

Wildlife and land management practices

Supervisory experience

Wildlife surveys and biological data summarization

ArcGIS proficiency

GPS proficiency

Heavy equipment operation

Education

Bachelor of Science in a life or physical science

Tools

ArcGIS

GPS devices

ATVs

Heavy equipment

Job description

FISHERIES & WILDLIFE BIO SCIENTIST III - 77073282

Date: Jan 23, 2025

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: Fisheries and Wildlife Biological Scientist III

Position Number: 77073282

Address: 3365 Taylor Creek Road, Christmas, FL 32709

Phone: [phone]

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

FWC Mission Statement: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

Description of Duties:

The FWC’s Northeast Region is seeking a highly motivated candidate for an exciting and challenging opportunity to lead management on the Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) in Orange and Osceola Counties, Florida. This position serves as the Lead Area Biologist responsible for habitat management on over 1,650 acres of natural communities to benefit non-game and imperiled wildlife and plant species. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and implementing habitat management and restoration activities including the application of prescribed fire on approximately 450 acres per year, conducting various mechanical and chemical treatments, and managing invasive species. The incumbent will also assist with management on various other WMAs in the NE region.

Incumbent is responsible for all aspects of running the WEA including assisting with periodic revision of the management plan; infrastructure management; wildlife monitoring and data entry; managing public access; reporting; purchasing; budget management; and GIS. The incumbent will interact professionally with the public and partners, including other state and federal agencies and non-governmental organizations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge of principles of ecology and wildlife management
• Knowledge of the common and imperiled species of Florida
• Experience with prescribed fire and fire ecology
• Knowledge of wildlife and land management practices
• Experience in supervising team members
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience conducting wildlife surveys and summarizing biological data
• Proficient in ArcGIS and GPS
• Ability to operate vehicles, ATVs, trailers, and heavy equipment

Minimum Qualifications: Preferred Bachelor of Science degree in a life or physical science. Four years of direct, relevant experience may substitute for the Bachelor of Science degree.

Other Requirements: This position is designated as a home-is-office position. Incumbent will be required to complete prescribed burning training to obtain and maintain a FL certified prescribed burn manager certificate within 18 months of hire date. Must obtain and maintain a current and valid Florida Driver’s license.

Benefits: Participate in Group health insurance and included in the Florida Retirement System (FRS).

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.