Planner IV – 77001173

Agency information

Our organization: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (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.

The Division of Habitat & Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two Offices. This position works within the Land Conservation and Planning (LCP) program of the Wildlife Habitat Management Section of the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A high school diploma and six years experience in a biological or planning field. A bachelor’s degree can substitute for four of the six years of experience.
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is preferred, along with two years of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work OR a master’s degree in one of the biological sciences, urban planning, or a related field, along with one year of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work.

Answers to qualifying questions must be validated in application, resume, and cover letter.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: 

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects under tight deadlines, while ensuring compliance with Florida Statutes and the Florida Administrative Code.
• Strong public speaking and facilitation skills for conducting public meetings and presenting at public hearings related to the development of land management plans for state-owned conservation lands. Experience in this area is preferred.
• Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS); formal GIS training and experience are preferred.
• Skilled in organizing, coordinating, and leading meetings with internal staff, external stakeholders, and representatives from other agencies.
• Ability to travel throughout Florida for up to five consecutive days, on occasion, for site visits, public meetings, and support of planning efforts.
• Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license and ability to operate a state-owned vehicle is required.

Position Description:

The Land Conservation and Planning (LCP) program of the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section is responsible for the implementation and administration of the FWC’s land acquisition and management planning efforts. The program supports the protection and restoration of Florida’s wildlife habitats and natural resources through comprehensive planning, public engagement, and inter-agency coordination.

This position serves as a Land Conservation Planner (Planner IV) and will play a key role in managing land conservation planning projects, facilitating public meetings, conducting GIS analysis, coordinating with the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) and other state and regional partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate the development and updates of management plans for Wildlife Management Areas and Wildlife Environmental Areas, in collaboration with municipalities, stakeholders, FWC staff, and partner agencies such as the Florida Forest Service, Water Management Districts, and the Department of Environmental Protection.
• Assist in maintaining and updating GIS data layers related to FWC-managed lands, Florida Forever conservation projects, and potential acquisition areas.
• Plan and facilitate public stakeholder meetings and hearings required for the development of management plans, including logistical coordination, communication with internal and external partners, and preparation of meeting materials.
• Represent FWC at ARC meetings, presenting management plans and engaging in inter-agency coordination.
• Review management plans and amendments submitted by other agencies to ensure compliance with applicable statutes and policies.
• Participate in Land Management Reviews for FWC-managed areas.
• Support other program functions and special projects, such as acquisition project evaluations, Florida Forever prioritization efforts, procurement, and vehicle coordination.