Biological Scientist IV

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management (DMFM) is seeking an individual to join the Analysis and Rulemaking team, which is responsible for developing recommendations for the Commission, as well as implementing fisheries management policy and integrating habitat considerations into fisheries management for state-managed saltwater fisheries.

The selected candidate will be involved in the management and conservation of oysters throughout Florida. This position is based in Tallahassee. However, there will be routine travel and office days in Franklin County.

As a DMFM representative, the selected candidate will be required to interact with stakeholders with diverse perspectives, work with researchers, coordinate with local FWC law enforcement, analyze fisheries data, play an integral role in restoration activities, support the Regional Director, and assist with other tasks related to marine fisheries management as needed. The person selected should be adaptable, willing to learn, and excited to take on new challenges.

This position is a great opportunity to grow your career by developing relationships with other professionals both inside and outside of FWC. You will have a variety of duties in this role, some of which are listed below:

• Represents DMFM in the Apalachicola region, including as a member of internal and external teams in the region and at regional events.
• Works closely with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, the Division of Law Enforcement, the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation, and other relevant FWC Divisions and Offices to identify and address oyster issues.
• As a member of DMFM, works with management and research staff and the public to develop oyster management recommendations for Commission consideration.
• Reviews, synthesizes, and interprets relevant oyster fisheries information (e.g., habitat mapping and monitoring data, shell budget analysis, life history information, regulation history, stakeholder feedback, scientific literature) to inform management recommendations and Commission rulemaking.
• Develops technical papers and presentations and participates in rulemaking process to help the Commission build a record in support of their decisions.
• Assists in developing or revising rules, management plans, and other policy documents related to oyster management.
• Conducts public workshops on issues relating to Florida’s oyster fishery.
• Coordinates with commercial and recreational fishers and other stakeholders to collect information about oyster fishery management.
• Coordinates with researchers, restoration practitioners, and stakeholders to develop and implement oyster restoration and cultching projects.
• Serves as liaison with state and federal agencies on issues affecting Florida’s oyster fishery.
• Works with stakeholders, agencies, and NGOs on issues relevant to Florida’s oyster fishery.
• Provides support to supervisor, Section Leader, Division Director, and Regional Director on special assignments as assigned.
• Responds to public inquiries regarding Florida’s oyster issues, including but not limited to life history, license requirements, as well as rules and regulations in a timely manner.
• Performs other marine fisheries and FWC-related work as required.