Deadline: Sun, 05/05/2024 - 12:00pm Employer: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Job Field: Wildlife Job Type: Full Time Location: Florida Location Detail: Kenansville, Florida Job Description: The Division of Habitat & Species Conservation is comprised of six Sections and two offices. This position is located in the Wildlife Habitat Management section. The Northeast Region is seeking a highly motivated candidate to serve as the Lead Area Biologist on the 65,333 acre Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Osceola County, Florida. This position is in the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section and is responsible for habitat management and restoration activities including application of prescribed fire, mechanical treatments, and exotic plant management throughout the area. The position will lead a team of 8 full-time employees as well as several seasonal positions to accomplish FWC objectives on the WMA. Upon completing a prescribed burn mentorship program, the successful candidate will lead an active prescribed burn team that burns approximately 20,000 acres per year to maintain and restore a variety of natural communities including mesic and wet flatwoods and dry and wet prairie to benefit game, non-game and imperiled wildlife and plant species. This position will coordinate with other sections within FWC and partner agencies to assist with recovery efforts of the critically endangered Florida grasshopper sparrow. This position leads active monitoring programs for threatened and locally important species including Bachman’s sparrow, northern bobwhite, bats, and red-cockaded woodpecker. Job duties will also include planning, development and maintenance of projects facilitating public recreational opportunities including public hunt management, infrastructure establishment and maintenance, and other land management tasks as needed. This position is responsible for assisting with the development and periodic revision of long-range, comprehensive management plans, annual work plans, budget proposals, project specifications, area regulations, and reports. In addition, the applicant will interact professionally with the public and partners providing accurate information concerning wildlife, area conditions, rules and regulations. Occasional travel is required to attend regional and divisional meetings and trainings. Qualifications: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Incumbent must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and leadership skills, be able to work well with team members and interact positively with stakeholders and cooperators. Other required knowledge, skills and abilities include: Knowledgeable in principles of wildlife ecology and habitat management Knowledge of the common and imperiled species of Florida Knowledge of the principles of fire ecology and experience with application of prescribed fire Knowledge and experience with chemical or mechanical control of invasive exotic vegetation Knowledge and experience in supervising multiple team members Experience conducting wildlife surveys and summarize 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 work both as part of a team and independently Ability to work outdoors under harsh weather conditions Ability to operate 4WD vehicles and ATVs Ability to plan and prioritize work assignments and multi-task Ability to work outside of normal business hours, including 10-12 hour days as necessary Miscellaneous: Will be required to obtain and maintain a current and valid Florida Driver’s license. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal history background check. Four years of direct and relevant experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree in a life/physical science. Salary: $45,000 per year Benefits: https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/ Full benefits package including health insurance and retirement. How to Apply: Must apply online at: https://jobs.myflorida.com/
