Requisition No: 805470
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS Biological Scientist I – 77907712
Position Number: 77907712
Salary: $18 per hour
Posting Closing Date: 08/15/2023
Job Duties & Responsibilities
Candidate will be part of a team responsible for collecting data in the field to initiate long-term monitoring of a population of the Eastern Indigo Snakes in northern peninsular Florida. Results of the study will inform management and conservation strategies for this rare and federally threatened species. Fieldwork will involve searching for snakes when they are aboveground while walking and driving, and by checking gopher tortoise burrows for snake occupancy using burrow scopes and trail cameras. Snakes will be captured by hand and fitted with external radio-transmitters then tracked daily in an effort to locate additional snakes as they interact with the marked individuals. This work will consist primarily of fieldwork but will also include data entry and maintenance of supplies and equipment, safe use and maintenance of vehicles, and other related duties as required.
This is a seasonal, grant funded position. The position dates are from mid-October through mid-March.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of the terminology, principles and techniques used in biological research, analysis or testing; methods of data collection; flora and fauna of Florida. Ability to collect, record, and analyze scientific data relating to the biological sciences; work outside searching for snakes in natural habitats, plan organize and coordinate work assignments; communicate effectively, establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; keep accurate research records; to utilize problem-solving techniques; to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to the biological sciences; use computer applications (email, data processing, spreadsheet, database, word processing); use GPS equipment to record and save data, safely drive 4WD vehicles, safely handle reptiles including snakes.
Minimum Qualificiations
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences.
This position requires the candidate to have successful completion of a level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate prior to hire.
WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?
- State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan – mandatory
- Workers’ Compensation – mandatory
- Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) – mandatory
- Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements. Consult with People First or the servicing Human Resource Office for details.)
- Deferred Compensation – voluntary
- Employee Assistance Program – voluntary
WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?
- Any form of paid leave
- Paid holidays
- Participation in the Florida Retirement System
- Reinstatement rights or retention rights
The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.
Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.
The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.