OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I

Requisition No: 845845

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - 77901686

Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77901686

Salary: $18.75 per hour

Posting Closing Date: 02/21/2025

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Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Section: FWC Florida Bass Conservation Center

Working Title: Biological Scientist I OPS

Position Number: 77901686

Hourly Wage: $18.75 per hour

Location: 3583 County Road 788

Webster, FL 33597

Florida Bass Conservation Center

Biological Scientist I - OPS

Webster, Florida

Our organization:

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.

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

Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself. The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

At least a 2-year degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and 2 years professional experience in a closely related biological field or aquaculture program is required. Or four years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference may be given to candidates with an associate’s degree or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences. Preference also may be given to candidates demonstrating direct knowledge of fisheries and aquaculture.

Requirements:

Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate.

Office hours are from 7:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Wednesday through Sunday. Not eligible for Telework. Position based at the Bass Conservation Center in Webster, Fl.

Weekend work in mandatory.

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The Florida Bass Conservation Center (FBCC) is seeking qualified applicants for an OPS Fish and Wildlife Biologist I position. The FBCC is the major freshwater gamefish production hatchery in the state of Florida, supplying fish such as Florida Bass, Black Crappie, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Triploid Grass Carp, and Striped Bass hybrids. The FBCC also conducts research on various culture techniques and species-specific production methodologies. The incumbent will assist with intensive fish culture operations and should be highly motivated, detailed oriented, and have an ability to complete tasks unsupervised during hatchery off hours. Examples of routine tasks include, assisting in egg and fry incubation for various freshwater game species, tank cleaning and setup, fish feeding, basic data collection and entry, performing water quality tests, oversight of mechanical operations, and management of the visitor’s center aquarium. Assist with visiting tour groups, outreach, and purchases as needed. Conduct basic repairs to equipment such as pumps, motors, fish hauling trailers, etc. Assist in design and implementation of specific scientific studies conducted at the hatchery related to diet evaluation and growth performance of game species, fish health chemicals and therapeutics, loading densities, etc. Assist in extensive pond management, pond feeding, culture and harvest as directed.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of basic scientific terminology and principles

Knowledge of fish biology

Knowledge of water chemistry

Knowledge of proper fish culture techniques in spawning, egg handling, fry rearing, fish stocking and broodstock management

Skill in the use of MS Office Software

Ability to generate, analyze and communicate biological data

Ability to problem-solve and handle conflict with professionalism

Ability to effectively communicate written and orally with the scientific community and with public stakeholders

Ability to work in teams and independently to complete tasks in a timely and organized manner

Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays

Ability to lift 50 pounds

Ability to work to stand for long periods of time and work in outdoor conditions

Why should I apply?

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
*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

Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance

OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan

On the Job Trainings

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

For a more complete list of benefits, visit https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/.

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.