Wildlife Assistance Biologist (OPS BIO III)

The Wildlife Impact Management Section is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to serve as a Wildlife Assistance Biologist. The incumbent serves as the primary point of contact for human-wildlife conflict issues and provides information or methods to prevent or mitigate conflicts with wildlife. Assistance provided to the public or agency staff may be provided over the phone, in person, or in writing. Some fieldwork may occur but is not a regular component of this position. The successful candidate will occasionally represent the Wildlife Assistance Program at outreach events by conducting presentations to citizen groups. The candidate may also conduct site visits and provide technical assistance, conflict mitigation strategies and loan equipment, as necessary. The Wildlife Assistance Biologist works across multiple Divisions and Sections within FWC to: 

• Coordinate management of human-wildlife conflict situations including those involving bears, coyotes, birds, and other wildlife species.
• Network to establish clear communication across the agency about emerging wildlife issues.
• Assist with the implementation of response protocols for human-wildlife conflict situations in coordination with other FWC programs including the Division of Law Enforcement.

 Responsibilities include, but are not necessarily limited to the following:

• Provide technical assistance to the public and other agencies on means to address human-wildlife conflicts and to promote strategies to coexist with wildlife.
• Maintain familiarity with prevalent conflict wildlife issues and continually identify and share best technical assistance practices and protocols as required.
• Provide coverage for other regional Wildlife Assistance Biologists as needed.
• Maintain an accurate and thorough daily log of public correspondence via the Wildlife Impact Management System database.
• Participate in public outreach efforts as directed to increase appreciation for wildlife and address conflict wildlife abatement or other wildlife-related issues.
• Assist the regional FWC Public Information Director with media and stakeholder information requests.
• Respond to requests via the AskFWC program, to answer questions about wildlife or wildlife conflict resolution.
• Occasionally support the FWC’s Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program’s management efforts through response activities.
• Remain up to date on Commission rules and regulations regarding protected wildlife, the take of wildlife, conflict wildlife abatement, and related issues.

Knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position: 

• Knowledge of the biological sciences and scientific principles of wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation.
• Exemplary customer service skills and an ability to interface effectively with the public over the phone on a daily basis regarding sensitive topics.
• Ability to develop and effectively present educational outreach material to adult audiences
• Skilled in the use of computers for word processing, information management, communications, data management, and mapping.
• Knowledge of and experience with wildlife damage control techniques.
• Ability to identify native and non-native wildlife.
• Knowledge of wildlife issues in Florida.
• Ability to work well both independently and in a team-setting in a fast-paced work environment, accurately record data, and meet deadlines with minimal, remote supervision.
• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to effectively communicate and work with the public, stakeholder representatives and coworkers.
• Ability to safely operate a vehicle.
• Ability to travel overnight less than 25% of the time.
• Licensure, Certifications or registration requirements: Valid Florida driver’s license.

WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan – mandatory
• Workers’ Compensation – mandatory
• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) – mandatory
• Potential to participate in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements)
• Deferred Compensation – voluntary
• Employee Assistance Program – voluntary

WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?

• Any form of paid leave
• Paid holidays
• Participation in the Florida Retirement System
• Reinstatement rights or retention rights

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.

Location:  

LAKELAND, FL, US, 33801