OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST II - 42903048

State of Florida • Gainesville, FL

2d • $21

About The Position

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES

FLORIDA FOREST SERVICE

OPEN COMPETITIVE OPPORTUNITY--
THIS IS A FULL-TIME OTHER PERSONAL SERVICES (OPS) POSITION

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree (4 years) from an accredited college or university with a major in biological, physical, natural, or agricultural sciences and one (1) year of related professional experience; or
• A master’s degree (6 years) from an accredited college or university as described above.
• Certain positions within this class require individuals to meet specific federal or state regulations as identified by the employing agency.
• Requires possession of a valid driver license.
• Knowledge of the terminology, principles and techniques used in biological research, analysis or testing.
• Knowledge of the methods of data collection.
• Skill in the use of scientific field equipment.
• Ability to collect, record and analyze scientific data relating to the biological sciences.
• Ability to conduct biological research, studies or analysis using scientific methods and techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to utilize problem-solving techniques.
• Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures relating to the biological sciences.

Responsibilities

• This is a professional position responsible to the Forestry Resource Administrator for planning, development and coordination of forest management practices that enhance and protect unique habitats and plant and animal species in their natural forest environment onseven state forests of the Waccasassa Forestry Center.The state forests included in the Waccasassa Forestry Center are Carl Duval Moore, Etoniah Creek, Welaka, Newnans Lake, Indian Lake, Ross Prairie, and Goethe State Forests.
• Assist staff with the chemical and mechanical control of invasive plants.
• Provides periodic instruction to district staff, such as exotic species control. Willingly performs other duties as assigned including the proper maintenance of all assigned equipment and vehicles.
• Develops and implements ecologically-sound forest managment prescriptions that promote native habitat integrity and protect rare, threatened and endangered species of plants and animals occurring on Waccasassa Forestry Center state forests. Reviews silvicultural plans to ensure compliance with overall ecological managment goals for the forest, as well as for compliance with DHR concerning historical resources. Coordinates ecosystem managment practices with federal, state and other local agencies and appropriate private organizations to ensure a well balanced managment program for these species. Surveys, inventories, and monitors rare, threatened and endangered species of flora and fauna and maintains a permananet record of esstential information for future management purposes.
• Conducts periodic and routine field inspections to inventory and monitor conditions of forest stands, habitats and wildlife populations. Coordinates with volunteers to assist with monitoring activities. Assists other state agencies with the preparation and update of the natural areas inventory. Makes recommendations for lands involved with wildlife or ecological mitigation. Coordinates with county governments and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission in the relocation of threatened or endangered species.
• Coordinates with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and other agencies in the development of wildlife management plans on Waccasassa Forestry Center state forests.

Benefits

• Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements);
• Participation in the Florida Deferred Compensation Plan (457b). For additional details and online enrollment visit MyFloridaDeferredComp.com;
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax deferred Retirement Savings Plan). For more information visit Social Security Alternative Plan (aigrs.com) and read OPS Social Security Alternative Plan (Does not apply to previous FRS Retirees);
• Flexible Spending Accounts;
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level