2026 Sea Turtle Habitat Conservation Plan Associate

Volusia County Environmental Management is seeking an associate to assist in the daily operations of the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) program for the 2026 sea turtle nesting season. This is an hourly position needed up to 40 hours a week to start in late April and work through the end of September or October (nesting season runs from May 1 – October 31).

Position Duties:

• Enter HCP-related and sea turtle nesting data using Microsoft Excel, Access, and Survey123. Assist with other program-related data entry as needed. Data entry and verification is the primary duty of this position.
• Assist the HCP Field Manager with volunteer programs including Adopt-A-Beach and Washback Watchers; aid in the planning of and participating in the International Coastal Cleanup along with other educational outreach and stewardship opportunities as needed.
• Conduct early morning sea turtle nesting surveys with volunteers under the supervision of a field biologist. This work includes monitoring, marking, and excavating sea turtle nests, while recording all necessary data. *One day per week with the potential for additional days based on program needs. *
• Assist with field work including site checks on coastal construction projects, HCP asset inventories, installation and distribution of educational signs and other materials, gathering GPS points of sea turtle nests, etc.
• Create online content such as social media posts, Turtle Journal updates, and the Adopt-A-Beach newsletter.
• Operate and maintain field equipment including four-wheel drive vehicles, iPads, GPS units, etc.
• Additional opportunities may include monitoring other coastal wildlife including shorebirds, responding to marine mammal and sea turtle strandings, and more as opportunities arise. Other duties as assigned.

The successful candidate must be 21 years or older, pass a background check, and have or be able to obtain a Florida driver’s license. The selected applicant must be able to handle the physical demands of the job and be able to work in various field conditions which may include heat, inclement weather, and biting insects.

The ideal candidate will have or be in pursuit of a degree in marine biology, coastal ecology, or a related field with some relevant experience.

*Applicants who have attended or who are available to attend an FWC Nesting Beach Survey Workshop will be given preference. Workshop dates TBD. *

This is an hourly, seasonal contract position. The rate of pay is $15/hour, up to 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Housing and benefits are NOT provided.