OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - F - 77900857

State of Florida; Daytona Beach (FL); Remote; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A state conservation agency is seeking an OPS Biological Scientist I to assist in fisheries data collection and marine research in East Central Florida. This role involves gathering data from recreational fisheries and conducting public outreach. Candidates should have relevant biological field experience or a degree in biological science, along with strong communication and analytical skills. Flexible scheduling and travel are required for this position.

Benefits

Comprehensive health coverage

Low deductibles

Flexible scheduling

Qualifications

• 4 years of experience in a biological field or a bachelor's degree in a biological science.
• Valid Florida driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to lift at least 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct dockside interviews with anglers to gather data.
• Sample fish for measurements and biological samples.
• Process field and laboratory samples.

Skills

Fish morphology

Statistical survey sampling methods

Data collection

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological science

Tools

Tablets

Database software

Job description

Overview

Requisition No: 861924
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Working Title: OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - F - 77900857
Posting Closing Date: 10/14/2025
Salary: $19 per hour
Location: Flagler, Volusia, or North Brevard Counties (Titusville, Scottsmoor, Mims, or Port St. John ONLY), FL. Home-based; travel required within Volusia, Brevard, St. Johns, and Flagler counties, with potential travel to other regions of Florida.

Organization: FWC FWRI- Fisheries Dependent Monitoring. Biological Scientist I – OPS Position. $19 per hour.

Our organization values science-informed, ethical, collaborative work to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well‑being and the benefit of people.

Position Overview and Responsibilities

• Fisheries Dependent Monitoring (FDM) works with anglers to collect fisheries data across the state. The position supports directed research and monitoring of recreational fisheries in East Central Florida by assisting with new and ongoing marine recreational fishing surveys.
• Conduct dockside interviews with recreational anglers to gather data on catch rates, effort, gear, and area fished.
• Sample fish dockside to collect accurate length and weight measurements and biological samples for age, growth, and reproduction.
• Maintain accurate fishing site information, including pressure, modes, and location.
• Process field and laboratory samples following standardized protocols.
• Gather detailed information on fish caught and released by recreational anglers.
• Call captains for the For-Hire Telephone Survey and collect trip information.
• Enter data using tablets, personal computers, and database software.
• Troubleshoot equipment and review data for quality assurance.
• Participate in public outreach as appropriate; perform other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by the section supervisor.
• Work a flexible schedule of 30-40 hours per week (variable by week), including weekends (Friday–Sunday) and holidays.
• Operate independently and as part of a team, representing the Agency in a courteous and professional manner.
• This position is home-based in the specified counties with frequent daytime travel required; own vehicle and travel reimbursements available (44.5 cents/mile).

Minimum Qualifications

• 4 years of professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program, or
• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science with substitution for required experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological/marine sciences; direct knowledge of fisheries; experience identifying finfish to species; experience in marine fisheries monitoring programs; relevant marine-related experience preferred.

Requirements

• Employment contingent upon satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to candidate.
• Valid minimum Class E State of Florida driver’s license; reliable transportation; ability to lift at least 40 lbs.
• Responses to qualifying questions must be verifiable by skills/experience stated on profile application/resume; include any gaps in employment; cover letters encouraged.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge: Fish morphology and identification of marine fishes to species; statistical survey sampling methods and data collection.
• Ability: Communicate effectively with the public; gather, maintain and analyze data; maintain field sampling equipment; establish working relationships; operate tablets/computers and related software; track hours and mileage; work independently and as part of a team; problem-solve; multi-task and meet deadlines; adapt to changing priorities; work under adverse conditions; weekends/holidays as needed.

Benefits and Equal Opportunity

• State benefits for eligible OPS positions include comprehensive health coverage, low deductibles, and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions.
• Health premiums: Single $25.00, Family $90.00 biweekly; Life insurance options; OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan; On-the-Job Trainings; FMLA; more at myFlorida benefits portal.
• The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer. Accommodation requests should be directed to the agency hiring authority or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735).
• Drug-Free workplace; all employees subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing per Florida law.

For more information on related projects, visit the following pages (note: URLs are provided for reference): http://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/fishstats/recreational-fisheries/landings/ and https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/state-reef-fish-survey/

Why should I apply?

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy landscapes, and where natural resources are valued and enjoyed responsibly. The agency emphasizes dynamic, science-informed decision making, efficiency, ethics, collaboration, and commitment to the state’s vitality.

Accommodation and Notices

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer. Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities are available upon request. A drug-free workplace policy is in effect.