Fisheries and Wildlife Biologist III (includes housing); Lake Placid, FL

Our organization:

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.

Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself.  The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Description of duties: 

The Division of Habitat and Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices. An exciting opportunity exists for a Fish and Wildlife Biologist to join a team of employees within the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section in managing the Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) in Highlands County. FWC’s Southwest Region is seeking a motivated applicant that is willing and able to work outdoors in a variety of conditions throughout the year in fulfillment of their job responsibilities. Primary responsibilities include direct involvement in the development and implementation of management programs for the Lake Wales Ridge WEA. This position will be responsible for leading the prescribed burn program on the WEA, which includes managing the area’s prescribed burn team. Job duties will further include biological data collection, wildlife surveys, non-native invasive plant control, mechanical treatments, infrastructure establishment and maintenance, public hunt and check station management, and other various land management tasks as needed. 

This position is also responsible for the development and periodic revision of long-range, comprehensive management plans, annual work plans, budget proposals, area regulations, and reports. Incumbent will also work with other staff to enhance wildlife habitat and promote compatible recreational use for the general public. Incumbent will participate in team meetings, seminars, workshops, public outreach events and/or other training opportunities. 

Persons applying for this position should have strong team leadership skills, be comfortable working independently in the field, and have experience in prescribed burning, plant identification, and non-native invasive plant control. The ability to operate ATVs and field equipment is preferred.