Biological Scientist III

Role Overview

• This position combines scientific expertise with community engagement to facilitate conservation-based projects and promote stewardship for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
• The successful applicant will serve as a Volunteer Program Biologist within the Public Access Services Office in the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.
• This position is based in the Northeast Regional Office in Ocala, FL, with opportunities to support projects and make a meaningful difference regionally, statewide and across all agency divisions.
• This position offers direct coordination of volunteers for conservation projects, collaborating with a diverse group of biologists, land managers, and interested groups.
• Supporting a variety of species and habitats in the Northeast region of Florida, the Volunteer Program Biologist plays a key role in designing, planning, implementing, and monitoring conservation efforts that engage volunteers.
• Responsibilities include recruiting, training, and managing volunteers, as well as providing expert support in volunteer management and best practices to FWC’s land managers and biologists.
• Additionally, the position involves building interagency and external partnerships to carry out volunteer-driven conservation projects on both public and private lands.

Requirements

• A high school diploma and 6 years professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program is required.
• A Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field can substitute for four of the 6 years of required experience.
• Preferred social science/business management coursework and 1-3 years of volunteer management experience.
• Preferred relevant field experience in work related to wildlife ecology, conservation biology and/or natural resource management.
• Demonstrated experience in a volunteer management role.
• Broad-based working knowledge of a variety of non-game Florida species across multiple taxa.
• Knowledge of the ecosystems of Florida (or Southeastern United States), wildlife management practices, and conservation threats.
• Ability to analyze biological data and to report it in a scientific manner.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and to set and meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, both independently and as part of a team.
• Proven capacity to self ‑ direct work, proactively identify needs, and independently carry tasks from start to finish.
• Proven organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective oral and written communication skills including public speaking, preparing multi-media presentations, and handling sensitive or difficult conversations.
• Ability to effectively use computer programs to conduct work duties (including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access).
• Knowledge of database management and/or GIS software programs.
• Knowledge of social media applications.
• Ability and willingness to travel overnight and during the day for projects, meetings, and workshops.