OPS Biological Scientist

Requisition No: 865874

Agency:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title:

OPS Biological Scientist I -

Position Number:

Location:

Gainesville, Florida

Pay: $20 per hour

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.

Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

Our values are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

4 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required.

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences.
• Experience conducting and/or assisting field-based biological research.
• Experience with wildlife radio telemetry.

• Employment is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must be able to lift at least 40 lbs.

The selected candidate will serve as an OPS Biological Scientist I within FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Wildlife Research Section / Reptile, Amphibian, and Terrestrial Invertebrate Research Subsection. Their primary duties will be to assist staff scientists with ongoing research projects focused on rare and at-risk species, specifically at-risk dragonfly conservation. The role is predominantly field-based and requires working outdoors in various and often unpleasant conditions, including heat, cold, rain, high winds, and exposure to stinging/biting insects.

It will require frequent travel throughout north-central/northeast Florida to access study sites and sometimes require working weekends and holidays. No overnight travel is anticipated. This is a seasonal, temporary position not expected to exceed four months. Anticipated start date:
March 6, 2026.

• Collect biological, ecological, and environmental data using standardized protocols.
• Operate radio telemetry equipment to monitor wildlife populations.
• Safely operate 4WD vehicles to access study sites.
• Perform other associated tasks as needed.

• Knowledge of standard methods of data collection and management; general principles of ecology and conservation biology.
• Ability to identify, capture, and handle small animals (specifically dragonflies); collect data using standardized protocols.
• Safely operate 4WD vehicles and maintain a valid driver license.
• Safely navigate in remote areas without cellular reception.
• Work independently without direct supervision.
• Work on an irregular schedule for extended hours in various field conditions.
• Maintain positive, respectful relationships with coworkers, partners, and members of the public.

Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions.

Health Premiums: $25.00 – Single / $90.00 – Family Biweekly.

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  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.

Location:

Gainesville, FL 32601, Alachua, FL 32315.

For assistance, call the People First Service Center at  Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Eastern time.