OPS Research Associate

Requisition No: 845805

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Research Associate - 77907614

Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907614

Salary: $23.50 to $24.00 (depending on qualifications & experience)

Posting Closing Date: 02/27/2025

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FWC-Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

OPS Research Associate

$23.50 to $24.00 per hour (depending on qualifications)

2796 Overseas Hwy, Suite 119

Marathon, FL 33050

FWC-Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Research Associate - OPS 77907614

Marathon, FL 33050

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:

5 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 and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; or A master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience.

SCUBA certification.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference may be given to candidates who possess a master’s degree or doctorate with a major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above.

Requirements:

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

Responses to qualifying questions should be verifiable by skills and/or experience stated on the profile application/resume.

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

This position supports the projects of FWC-FWRI’s Restoration Ecology Program. These research projects range in scope and scale, but as a member of the Restoration Ecology Program, the appointee conducts biological research related to coral reef ecosystems and their associated species (e.g., queen conch, urchins, sponges). The position requires extensive field work that involves SCUBA diving, trailering and operating research vessels, collecting scientific data as dictated by the experimental design of the Program’s various research and monitoring projects, and database management.

Duties include but may not be limited to:

Participation in on-water field trips to collect data associated with the Restoration Ecology Program’s ongoing research and monitoring projects.

Operating FWC vehicles and research vessels less than 26’.

Participation in field and lab safety protocol training.

Maintaining proficiency as an FWRI scientific diver, including basic SCUBA and AAUS certifications.

Aiding in the execution and data collection of the Program’s lab-based research activities.

Maintenance of datasheets and entering data into electronic databases consistent with the Program’s QA/QC protocols.

Using analytical software to perform statistical analyses and to generate figures from data collected by the Restoration Ecology Program as directed.

Assisting with the preparation of technical reports, manuscripts suitable for peer review, and presentations as directed.

Aiding in the development of new projects in coordination with supervisor.

Assisting other research and monitoring projects of the South Florida Regional Laboratory as directed.

Assisting in the maintenance of dive, field, laboratory, and safety equipment.

Promotion and participation in FWC-FWRI public outreach efforts as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in marine, ecological, or environmental science or closely related subject matter.

Familiarity with the basic principles of experimental design and techniques used in the collection of biological data and samples.

Knowledge of field and laboratory methodologies utilized in marine biology.

Ability to follow all policies and procedures in order to collect scientific data using approved methods in a safe manner.

Possess knowledge and skill in the use of personal computers and software including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Familiarity with statistical software such as SAS, R, or SPSS is desired.

Ability to analyze and synthesize data and prepare technical reports and manuscripts and communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Possess a SCUBA certification and ability to maintain an AAUS diver certification.

Possess a valid driver’s license and be able to safely trailer and operate vessels less than 26’ in length.

Possess the ability to perform strenuous field duties in sometimes difficult conditions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and to deal effectively with the public and other stakeholders to meet the objectives and goals of the FWC.

Ability to work more than 40 hours per week as needed.

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.

Biweekly Health Premiums $25.00 - Single / $90.00 - Family

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.