Deadline: Wed, 06/14/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Job Field: Wildlife Job Type: Full Time Location: Florida Location Detail: Fellsmere, FL Job Description: An exciting and challenging opportunity exists to manage one of Florida’s premier waterfowl management areas and to lead a team of fish and wildlife technicians at the T.M. Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area (WMA) in Brevard County, FL. This position serves as the Lead Area Biologist managing over 6,400 acres of impoundments and freshwater reservoirs for waterfowl, wading birds, and other wetland dependent species. The successful candidate must have a background and strong interest in waterfowl ecology and wetland habitat management. The Lead Area Biologist is responsible for coordinating and implementing all aspects of management of the WMA including water level manipulation, conducting mechanical and chemical vegetation control (mowing, herbicide, etc.), and application of prescribed fire to manage habitats and promote favorable conditions for beneficial wetland/moist-soil vegetation. Water level management is achieved through a combination of riser-board culverts, gravity fed canals and pumps to provide optimal habitat conditions for wintering waterfowl and other wetland dependent species. This position is responsible for all aspects of running the WMA including project, infrastructure, and public hunt management; reporting; purchasing and budget management; GIS; and data entry. The incumbent will interact professionally with the public and partners, including other state and federal agencies as well as non-governmental organizations to provide information concerning wildlife, area management, and rules and regulations. The successful candidate will oversee the operation of the hunter check station to collect biological data of hunter harvested game. Qualifications: • Knowledgeable in principles of wildlife ecology and habitat management. • Knowledge of moist-soil management practices. • Knowledge of hydrologic control structures including riser-board and flap gate culverts, and pumps is preferred. • Knowledge of the principles of fire ecology and the application of prescribed fire. • Knowledge in chemical and mechanical control of undesirable vegetation. • Knowledge and experience in supervising multiple team members. • Knowledge in conducting wildlife surveys and summarizing biological data. • Knowledge of outdoor recreational activities including hunting and fishing. • Proficient with Windows and Microsoft Office applications. • Knowledge of ArcGIS and GPS and its application to land management and surveys. • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. • Able to communicate effectively with team members, agency partners, and the public. • Ability to work both as part of a team and independently. • Ability to organize, prioritize, and plan work assignments and multi-task. • Ability to identify common and imperiled wildlife species, including migratory game birds. • Ability to operate outdoors under harsh weather conditions. • Ability to operate vehicles, ATVs, trailers, and boats, including airboats. Miscellaneous: Will be required to obtain and maintain a current and valid Florida Driver’s license. 2 years of supervisory experience and experience with wetland/moist-soil management is preferred. Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal history check. The criminal history check must be completed prior to or within the first three days of employment. Salary: $1,515.01 biweekly Benefits: Annual and Sick Leave benefits Nine paid holidays and one Personal holiday each year State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision and other supplemental insurance options; Retirement plan options, including employer contributions (For more information, please visit www.myfrs.com;) Flexible Spending Accounts Tuition waivers How to Apply: Must apply online at https://jobs.myflorida.com
