Natural Resource Specialist I

Highlands County BCC; Sebring (FL); On-site; USD 51,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

The Highlands County Board of County Commissioners is seeking a Natural Resources Manager to support conservation and preservation programs, oversee outreach, reporting, and maintenance of uplands and limnology, and guide a natural resources team toward high‑quality project outcomes.

Responsibilities include GIS mapping with ArcGIS, data analysis, habitat restoration coordination, environmental monitoring, and public education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Natural Science or related field with 2 years of natural resource experience.
• Proficient with ArcGIS, Microsoft Office suite, and basic graphic tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a small team to plan and execute projects.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct natural resources management projects including habitat restoration and invasive species control.
• Provide GIS mapping support and maintain GIS databases.
• Coordinate with agencies to align with statewide and federal regulations.
• Conduct environmental monitoring, sampling, and data collection with proper chain-of-custody.
• Prepare technical reports, grant writing, and public presentations.
• Educate the public; train and oversee volunteers and partners.

Skills

Communication

Public speaking

Teamwork

Report writing

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Natural Science

Tools

ArcGIS

Adobe

Canva

GPS

Microsoft Office

Job description

111 - $51,329.73 - $82,127.56 ($24.68 - $39.48 hourly)

Road & Bridge

Natural Resources Manager (0981)

Until Filled

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This is a professional position responsible for support, planning, and implementation of conservation and preservation management practices, outreach, public relations, reporting, and maintenance issues relating to natural resources (uplands and limnology) in Highlands County. Serves as a technical expert and responsible for delivering high-quality projects while supporting the growth and performance of a natural resources team.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The following statements describe the principal functions of the job and its scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.

• Plans and conducts natural resources management protection and enhancement projects, including monitoring and maintaining projects, conducting biological rare species monitoring, directing and implementing problem species control programs, collecting base line survey data on plant and animal species, coordinating habitat restoration for endangered species, and maintaining preserve infrastructure. Maintains applicable state and federal permits, as required
• Provides technical geographic information system (GIS) mapping support for management. Creates and maintains GIS databases for various activities to include creating and updating mapping
• Researches, develops, and improves methods and protocols for natural resources management
• Coordinates with other agencies to improve methods and project management for development and enforcement of statewide and federal regulations
• Conducts environmental collection, monitoring, sampling, testing and basic evaluation at various locations. Completes Chain-of-Custody forms and labels samples, strictly following regulatory handling and preservation protocols for various sample media
• Perform field identification, surveys, and reports of flora, fauna, and wildlife including endangered and threatened species. Monitors grounds and maintain optimum invasive, exotic species control via natural, mechanicals, and chemical treatments
• Manages, compiles, analyzes and presents field data in the form of public presentations, technical written reports, special materials, annual reports, protocols, and grant writing
• Conducts education and outreach to the public. Provide information on natural resources protection, preserves, and maintenance. Disseminates information to landowners, managers, and other public agencies that uses the preserves and parks as research sites
• Train, coordinate, and monitor volunteers for various environmental projects and initiatives. Cultivate relationships with community partners and stakeholders to enhance volunteer engagement
• Support staff with engaging on Board committees and provide comments on Planning and Zoning and Board of Adjustment items

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of County procedures and functions
• Good knowledge of natural resources and conservation techniques as related to the County
• Ability to work effectively in a small team environment to develop strategies, set goals, resolve problems, and implement plans
• Ability to perform with a high degree of efficiency computer-based programs such as ArcGIS, Adobe, Canva, and GPS
• Originates spreadsheets and databases
• Proficient in the use of all Microsoft like PowerPoint, Excel, and Word
• Ability to meet deadlines and work effectively to manage work schedules and projects
• Write reports and interact with other county and state agencies, staff, and the public
• Ability to make public presentations and educate citizens
• Skill in communicating clearly and concisely in both writing and orally
• Proficiency in safely operating equipment and tools, including chainsaws, mowers, tractors, hand tools, and common forestry tools

PHYSICAL SKILLS:

The individual in this position: Must be able to remain in a stationary position for 50% of the time. The individual in this position frequently communicates with the public, volunteers, and co-workers. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations. Rarely moves materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs. Consistently works in indoor and outdoor environments. Occasionally works in inclement outdoor weather conditions. In close proximity to bodies of water. Frequently operates motor vehicle for up to (4) hours continuously or intermittently.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Natural Science or related field plus two (2) years of experience in a natural resource field.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver License.

OTHER JOB-RELATED REQUIREMENTS:

Disaster Essential. Ability to swim.

THE HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Does not Discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment