OPS Fish and Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - 77902314

This is a rewarding and challenging opportunity to contribute to landscape-level conservation objectives and benefit a wide variety of rare and imperiled species and their habitats across the State of Florida. This position serves as a biologist in the Land Use Planning (LUP) Program in the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation’s Office of Conservation Planning Services (CPS). Biologists in the LUP Program gain in-depth knowledge of Florida's environmental regulations and their practical applications, serve the public, and develop an enhanced understanding of listed species habitats and life histories while helping to shape a sustainable future in Florida. LUP biologists work as part of a talented and diverse team and coordinate with wildlife experts throughout the Agency.

CPS provides technical assistance to a wide array of private and public sector landowners and local, state, and federal governmental entities on conservation-related issues. The LUP Program coordinates collaborative consultations for large land use planning efforts that have the potential to impact fish and wildlife resources, particularly those that anticipate going through a regulatory process (Environmental Resource Permits, Section 404, Siting Coordination, County Comprehensive Plan amendments, major watershed initiatives, etc.). This position will provide technical assistance to stakeholders and partner agencies for land use planning activities and is responsible for tracking, reviewing, and commenting on a variety of complex applications related to changes in land use and environmental permitting. This position will also focus on partnerships and planning, including reducing impacts to Florida’s imperiled species, reducing habitat fragmentation, and reducing the potential for human-wildlife conflict, including identification of project mitigation that contributes to landscape level conservation objectives.

To excel in this role, the successful candidate must have an understanding of fish and wildlife ecology and management needs, as well as a practical knowledge of native habitat management and recovery techniques suited to various Florida landscapes. Proficiency in technical writing and the use of GIS software is essential, and candidates will be expected to demonstrate these skills during the interview process. Ideal candidates will have mastered these knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Much of the work in this position will be conducted from an office during regular business hours, and biologists in the LUP Program enjoy a relatively predictable work schedule with the flexibility to attend site visits or assist other FWC staff in the field when appropriate. Additionally, there may be an opportunity to telework up to two days per week within the first year. Occasional long days and overnight travel are expected. Agency supported and individual-specific training will be made available to the person in this position as needed.

The position is responsible for timely and accurate processing and or approval, as appropriate, of vendor invoices and warrants for payment of goods received or services rendered to avoid automatic interest penalty payments to said vendors. It is responsible for adhering to the provisions and requirements of Section 215.422, F.S., related to State Comptroller’s rules, as well as Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures. Responsibilities may include legislative interactions. The position is expected to courteously assist Commission constituents to resolve questions or problems they may have in matters relating to the Commission, its programs or fish and wildlife conservation, generally. It is expected to actively garner public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida’s citizens in a positive and proactive manner.