Ops Environmental Specialist Ii

Position Overview

OPS Environmental Specialist II, , located in Tallahassee, FL. The role is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Biology Program, Toxicology Laboratory. Responsibilities include conducting and analyzing aquatic toxicity bioassays and Algae Growth Potential (AGP) tests to provide high‑quality laboratory services to the Environmental Protection Department and other agencies.

• Conduct aquatic toxicity tests using invertebrate and vertebrate organisms and participate in the design, evaluation, and operation of testing for dischargers.

• Assist analysts with all aspects of lab work under the guidance of the Environmental Manager, including training in bioassay techniques, AGP, quality control procedures, and lab maintenance.

• Maintain organism and algal cultures, ensure adequate supplies, and support monthly standard reference toxicity tests.

• Resolve laboratory issues such as culture problems, material repairs, and test conflicts; cross‑train in other biology lab groups for backup support.

• Provide weekend and holiday operational support for toxicity tests and culture maintenance; collect and transport samples from the commercial carrier on rotating Saturdays.

• Retrieve and interpret analytical data, perform statistical analysis, and assist in report preparation. Review bench sheets and logbooks for accuracy and relevance.

• Review, modify, and create laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Maintain proficiency in and conduct AGP analyses. Ensure quality assurance requirements for certification are met.

• Assist in maintaining microbiological and biochemical oxygen demand laboratory overflow services, including electronic data deliverables, final reports, invoices, and LIMS uploads. Act as the FDEP Laboratory’s point of contact for microbiology overflow services as assigned.

• Knowledge of terminology, principles, and techniques used in biological research, analysis, or testing.
• Knowledge of procedures, techniques, QA/QC, and equipment used in aquatic toxicity testing.
• Skill in using scientific laboratory and field equipment.
• Skill in using computers, including Microsoft Office, internet resources, and other computer programs.
• Ability to collect, record, and analyze scientific data related to the biological sciences.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written technical instructions, including SOPs and QA/QC procedures.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments.
• Ability to calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to use laboratory personal protective equipment (PPE) and work with acids, acetone, and other chemicals.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and in a group.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.

• At least five (5) years of verifiable related experience in biological sciences, environmental science, natural sciences, or physical sciences. Post‑secondary degrees may substitute experience on a year‑for‑year basis. Foreign degrees must be evaluated by an approved agency.
• Regular weekend and holiday work is required.
• Occasional day travel.

• Valid driver license.

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, environmental science, aquatic sciences, microbiology, ecology, natural sciences, or physical sciences.
• Experience in aquatic toxicology, environmental laboratory analysis, water quality testing, bioassays, laboratory QA/QC procedures, SOPs, statistical analysis, and/or laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

$26.00 per hour.

• Participation in state group insurance (eligibility requirements apply).
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.

For a complete list of benefits, visit .

DEP encourages veterans and persons with disabilities to apply. Qualified individuals with disabilities may perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Request accommodations by contacting the DEP Human Resources Office at (850) 245‑2511 or by emailing .

Applicants seeking reasonable accommodation for the IAAct may contact the hiring authority or the People First Service Center at 1‑866‑663‑4735. The State of Florida supports a drug‑free workplace; all employees may be subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug‑Free Workplace Act.