Requisition No: 798891

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: Research Associate - 77072896

Position Number: 77072896

Salary: $42,263 Annually

Posting Closing Date: 04/13/2023

Research Associate (Pending Reclassification)

The Marine Fisheries Research Section of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), is seeking qualified applicants for two Research Associate positions in its Marine Fisheries Biology research program at the Tequesta Field Laboratory. We are seeking highly qualified applicants with knowledge and research experience in marine fisheries biology.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Coordinate and conduct biological research on aspects of Florida’s marine fisheries resources. Lead and participate in field and laboratory research activities involving both inshore and offshore aquatic habitat systems to evaluate age and growth, movement patterns, and reproductive biology of the species under investigation. Research includes both above water and underwater sampling procedures (requires participation in SCUBA diving), as well as an understanding of acoustic telemetry, fisheries independent monitoring procedures, and underwater survey methodology. Organize and maintain scientific collection records including preparation of field sheets for processing, data entry, and proofing (QAQC). Assist in the management of project databases and help principal investigators conduct analysis of data. Assist in the preparation of scientific manuscripts and reports to grant agencies, fishery managers, other scientists, and stakeholders. Participate in the recruitment and training of new staff members. Supervise staff as assigned. Assist with the management of various budgets, as well as purchasing procedures and protocols. Maintain research equipment and ensure that vehicles and vessels are in good working order. Cross office and divisional lines in support of the Marine Fisheries Research and the Marine Fish Biology program. Promote marine conservation interests of Florida through collaborative research efforts, stakeholder coordination and outreach events at the local and state level as appropriate. Perform other work as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Valid Driver’s License

SCUBA Diving Certification (through a recognized training agency)

Within four months of employment, successful completion of FWC trailer towing course, boating safety course (from a recognized training agency) and First Aid, CPR (with AED) and O2 Administration.

Within six months of employment, successful completion of an American Academy of Underwater Science (AAUS) dive certification.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and two years of professional experience in a biological field or laboratory program; or a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program.

Preference may be given to candidates that possess a master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in marine fisheries or closely related field or have demonstrated mastery of the scientific method through field operations management, co-authorships in the peer-reviewed literature and presentations at scientific conferences. Additional consideration may be given to candidates that currently possess a scientific (AAUS) dive certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Knowledge of: Florida’s fisheries (particularly gamefishes) including life history, ecology, and stakeholder involvement; principles and techniques used in scientific research; fish identification; methods and gears used for the collection of fisheries samples; field research preparation; use of personal computers and database, statistical analysis, and geospatial software; safety protocol, and emergency response procedures; agency budgeting and purchasing procedures.

Skill in: the use and maintenance of scientific laboratory, acoustic monitoring and field equipment; SCUBA diving and underwater research techniques; fisheries independent monitoring procedures: how to properly handle various fish species; and data management.

Ability to: work independently or as part of a team; perform strenuous field duties in adverse conditions including heavy lifting, acquire (completion of dive standards, pass physical screening and demonstrate in water proficiency) and maintain scientific diver credentials (AAUS), dive and work at depths of 130 feet or less. Assist in the preparation of technical reports and scientific manuscripts, effectively communicate both verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; deal effectively with the public; maintain a valid driver’s license; safely trailer, operate, and maintain research vessels less than 28' in length; and work hours more than 40 per week.

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.

VETERANS’ PREFERENCE. Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Candidates claiming Veterans’ Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. Veterans’ Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here. All documentation is due by the close of the vacancy announcement

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.

VETERANS’ PREFERENCE. Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements. Candidates claiming Veterans’ Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. Veterans’ Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here. All documentation is due by the close of the vacancy announcement.