Ocean Career: FWC Biological Scientist

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (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. Position Overview and Responsibilities: Join the team developing and implementing ground-breaking management strategies for Florida’s most popular inshore fisheries: snook, redfish, and seatrout. This team works to expand FWC’s holistic fisheries management approach for snook, redfish, and seatrout, species central to Florida’s coastal economy and culture. The person in this position will also serve as the DMFM representative in Florida’s western Panhandle for inshore fisheries and will be responsible for advising the Northwest Regional Director, developing and strengthening partnerships with other state and federal agencies, and building a network of fisheries stakeholder relationships. We are looking for a candidate with a strong fisheries management or ecology background who is eager to work on these important species. The successful candidate will be responsible for reviewing and synthesizing fisheries data to guide statewide management strategies for these species. In addition, we seek someone outgoing and able to develop and maintain effective professional relationships with stakeholders, agency partners, and the public. The successful candidate should be passionate about fisheries management issues and conserving vital habitats that support redfish, snook, and spotted seatrout. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Management and Rulemaking for redfish, snook, and spotted seatrout. Review and synthesize data to inform rulemaking and management strategies for fisheries. Develop technical reports and presentations on fisheries and habitat-related topics. Assist in the creation and revision of fisheries regulations and management policies. Conduct public workshops to address marine fisheries issues. Coordinate research projects that impact fisheries management decisions. Collaboration and Partnerships Represent FWC in partnerships with stakeholders, agencies, NGOs, local government staff, and the public. Work closely with other FWC divisions and external organizations to address fisheries and habitat issues. Build and maintain effective relationships with diverse stakeholders, ensuring alignment with FWC goals. Outreach and Education Develop strategic outreach plans to promote sustainable fishing practices and habitat conservation. Engage with recreational and commercial fishers to gather feedback and disseminate fisheries management information. Respond to inquiries about marine fisheries and habitat concerns. General Duties Provide support to leadership on special assignments. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: In-depth knowledge of general biological principles, marine fisheries management, marine fisheries issues and habitat conservation. Skilled in applying critical thinking to inform recommendations for fishery regulations. Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing, including synthesizing complex information for various audiences. Knowledge and ability to analyze fisheries data, stock assessment results, and habitat assessments. Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage a workload including multiple projects with potentially short deadlines. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams. Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint (experience with R programming and ArcGIS is a plus). Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain productive relationships with stakeholders and team members. Ability and willingness to travel and work overtime hours, including some weekends, weeknights, and holidays. Minimum Qualifications Six years of professional experience directly related to fisheries, marine biology, natural resources management, or a closely related field. A post-secondary degree(s) in a field related to fisheries, marine biology, or a closely related field may substitute for professional experience as follows: two years for an associate degree, four years for a bachelor’s degree, and six years for a master’s degree. Preferred Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with: An advanced degree from an accredited college or university with a major course of study in fisheries, marine biology, or closely related field. Experience with R, SAS, and ArcGIS. Salary range : $50,584.67 Annually/$1,945.56 Biweekly #J-18808-Ljbffr ECO Magazine