Ocean Career: Biological Scientist at Florida Fish & Wildlife

Ocean Career: Biological Scientist at Florida Fish & Wildlife
ECO Posted On September 7, 2021

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is seeking an OPS Biological Scientist I to conduct directed field research and monitoring of commercial fisheries from Florida's Gulf of Mexico waters by collecting detailed biostatistical data, including but not limited to: species composition, sex ratio, fish weight, and size of fish and shellfish from commercial catches.

Interview fishermen to gather additional data on catch rates, effort, gear, and area fished. This position will also collect samples from marine fish for stock assessments and genetic analysis. Compile and enter data into databases as necessary. Data must be prepared and delivered in a timely manner. Evaluate collection procedures and suggest modifications. Participate in the development of methodologies for collecting appropriate biostatistical data on new and emerging fisheries. Maintain field sampling equipment. Additional duties may include data analysis, production of tables and figures for publication, participation in technical or scientific reports, and occasional sampling of recreational fisheries. The qualified applicant would be based at the St. Petersburg Field Lab in St. Petersburg, FL. The position requires frequent day-time travel throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco Counties, and opportunities to travel to other regions of Florida as needed. Perform other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by section supervisor. May participate in public outreach efforts, as appropriate.

This is an OPS (Other Personal Service) position. It offers no benefits or moving expenses. Occasional overtime hours may occur. Hours worked over 40 per week, Friday to Thursday, are considered overtime and are paid @ 1.5 times the regular wage.)
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences. Major in marine sciences preferred.
Preferred Experience

• Experience removing otoliths through the gills
• Gulf of Mexico fish ID
• Scientific data collection

Knowledge, Skill(s), and Abilities
Knowledge of and ability to: Identify marine fish and invertebrates from Florida's Gulf of Mexico waters; apply scientific sampling methodology and statistical techniques for analyzing fisheries data. Ability to: conduct field sampling of commercial and recreational catches of fish and interview fishers to obtain characteristics of their fishing trips; operate computers including tablets; submit travel electronically; use MS Office and other appropriate computer software; establish and maintain effective working relationships with FWC and other agency staff, and with commercial fishers and dealers; communicate effectively with the public and maintain field sampling equipment.

WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) employment is a temporary employer/employee relationship used solely for accomplishing short term or intermittent tasks. OPS employees do not fill established positions and may not be assigned the duties of any vacant authorized position. OPS employees are at-will employees and are subject to actions such as pay changes, changes to work assignment, and terminations at the pleasure of the agency head or designee.

WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - 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 to determine eligibility.)
• 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.

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