Deadline: Sun, 10/01/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Job Field: Wildlife Job Type: Full Time Location: Florida Location Detail: Ft. Walton Beach (Walton County), or Panama City Beach (Bay County), Florida Job Description: The Wildlife Diversity Conservation Section has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Biologist to become part of a close-knit and diverse conservation group. The Lead Biologist directs and implements beach mouse monitoring activities as a key member of a unique, multi-agency team that is working to restore the coastal dune ecosystem in the Florida Panhandle. The individual selected for this position will be able to significantly affect conservation outcomes for highly imperiled beach mouse populations, which are dependent upon this dynamic ecosystem. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Panhandle Dune Ecosystem Project carries out targeted, local scale restoration activities to restore a healthy, functioning, coastal dune ecosystem that benefits important wildlife populations across the panhandle. We actively engage with a broad range of public and private partners to accomplish these objectives. This 6-year, grant-funded project provides a great opportunity to work creatively with diverse partners and stakeholders to address unique conservation challenges. The Lead Biologist designs and conducts field surveys to accurately assess changes in the distribution and abundance of beach mice before and after dune restoration. Provides technical expertise and information to FWC staff, partners, and the public regarding beach mice and the dune restoration project. Compiles and analyzes data collected during the project to assess the status of small mammal populations. Writes technical reports and peer-reviewed documents describing significant project results. Ensures the mammal monitoring work proceeds on schedule and in coordination with other aspects of the dune restoration project. Complies with regulatory requirements. Uses GIS to track and analyze project activities as necessary. Coordinates effectively with external partners and contractors working on other facets of the project. This is a full-time, partial telework position. The work schedule is flexible and will vary based on project needs but will average 40 hours per week. The position entails office work as well as field work. Some travel for field work and partner meetings is likely. Qualifications: Education: Prefer a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences, preferably a degree in wildlife science, natural resource management, ecology, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in one of the listed fields is strongly preferred. Knowledge: Knowledge of population biology and wildlife ecology. Knowledge of conservation biology preferred. Knowledge of current, accepted methods to conduct surveys and monitor the distribution and abundance of mammal populations. Demonstrated experience conducting surveys for small mammals, preferred. Knowledge of Florida’s wildlife, particularly mammals, and applicable federal and state conservation laws and policies. Knowledge of coastal dune systems, preferred. Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Well-developed problem solving skills. Excellent all-around computer skills and proficiency with the suite of Microsoft programs and ArcGIS software. Demonstrated skills and experience using R for the analysis of wildlife data, preferred. Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communications skills. Abilities to express thoughts clearly and concisely in writing and when speaking with partners and the public. Excellent skills in time management and data management. Abilities: Enthusiastic and self-motivated to complete quality work on time. Strong ability to work independently with minimal supervision when appropriate, while also serving as an effective team player. Able to work effectively in a collaborative team environment with other agency staff members, partners, and stakeholders. Able to effectively and efficiently organize information and details while managing multiple tasks with varying deadlines. Able to conduct wildlife management and monitoring activities outdoors, to safely operate vehicles, and to work in sometimes difficult field conditions, including at night. Miscellaneous: Working hours: 8am-5pm, 40 hours per week, work hours may vary. A valid Driver’s License is required. Salary: $20.51 - $22.56, pay commensurate with experience, full time, 1920 hours per year Benefits: This is an OPS (Other Personnel Services) position. Employees in OPS positions have the option to receive health insurance benefits. OPS employees are paid for the number of hours they work, do not receive any paid leave, paid holidays, or participation in the Florida Retirement System. How to Apply: To apply: Submit an application for Position Number 77902412 through the State’s People First system (https://jobs.myflorida.com/). In addition, please attach a resume and a cover letter. This letter should explain your interest in this specific position and describe your most relevant qualifications for the position. The closing date is Oct. 1, 2023. For any questions, contact Terry Doonan (terry.doonan@myfwc.com)
