Deadline: Sat, 12/31/2022 - 12:00pm Employer: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission Job Field: Wildlife Job Type: Full Time Location: Florida Location Detail: Gainesville Job Description: The Bear Research Program is seeking a biologist to serve as the program’s Assistant Coordinator who will assist in all aspects of black bear research activities throughout Florida. The majority of the duties involve assisting with designing research plans, conducting or coordinating data collection, managing and analyzing data, and writing reports and publications. Current projects include bear survival and demographics using GPS and VHF collars and estimating abundance/density from genotyped hair. The candidate will train and supervise field technicians but will also be expected to assist with conducting field research when needed, such as erecting barbed wire hair corrals and capturing, radio-collaring, and collecting data from adult and neonatal bears. Additionally, the candidate may be required to assist with bear management activities, research other carnivores, provide expertise in carnivore ecology to Commission staff, serve on Commission teams, and represent the Bear Research Program to stakeholder groups as needed. Required to maintain a valid driver’s license and obtain/maintain a valid DEA Controlled Substance Registration Certificate. Qualifications: Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and two years of experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics; or two years of experience as a Research Assistant - FWC. A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for one year of the required experience. A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for the required experience. Preferred Experience: A master's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in a life or physical science, preferably in the wildlife biology, wildlife ecology, or zoology. Skilled in estimating survival of marked individuals and population abundance, density, and growth using spatially explicit mark-recapture methods, preferably using Program R or program MARK. Skilled in creating and managing web-accessed databases, such as Survey123. Skilled in the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) to manipulate and analyze animal movement data. Experienced in training and supervising seasonal technicians. Experience trapping, chemically immobilizing, and radiocollaring mammalian carnivores or large mammals, preferably bears. Experienced using GPS and VHF telemetry, including triangulating animal locations from bearings, and managing/analyzing resulting data. Miscellaneous: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of wildlife ecology principles and techniques, specifically as related to the life history and management of black bears. Ability to collect and analyze scientific data, create workflows that keep multiple administrative files and biological datasets organized, and to prioritize tasks among multiple projects. Experience with MS Excel or other data management software and with statistical and mapping programs, such as R and GIS. Ability to analyze qualitative and quantitative biological data using current and appropriate scientific standards. Ability to write and speak clearly and properly when communicating with fellow employees or the public. Ability to present research results to colleagues at technical conferences and the public at festivals, schools, or other events. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff from FWC and other agencies as well as private citizens. Ability to train and supervise technicians and coordinate their field or lab activities Ability to work a variable schedule to complete tasks and responsibilities as required Ability to capture, chemical immobilize, handle, and collar black bears or able to learn those skills.. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a research team. Skills in safe and proper use of field equipment, including 4X4 and off-road vehicles, towing utility trailers; must possess valid driver’s license. Ability to work independently in extreme field conditions and navigate to isolated field sites using GPS, map, or compass. Salary: $20.00 - $22.44 per hour, Depending on Experience Benefits: WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory Workers’ Compensation - mandatory Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements. Consult with People First or the servicing Human Resource Office for details.) 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 How to Apply: Applicants are required to apply through agency job portal called "People First" by the closing date listed, url is https://jobs.myflorida.com/Florida%20Fish%20and%20Wildlife/job/GAINESVILLE-OPS-Research-Associate-77907426-FL-32601/962142300/. In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First, applicants are required to also upload a current resume and cover letter highlighting their qualifications and interest in this position.
