Land Management Specialist

Job Summary This is professional work assisting in the development, implementation, and management of SJRWMD's land management program. Job duties include Participates in DistrictFire Management Program activities by drafting burn prescriptions, fire management plans, and scheduling burns; locating and contracting the construction of fire lines; coordinating activities with other regions, divisions, and agencies; conducting burns; assists with wildfire suppression and resource allocation and monitoring the short and long-range effects of the burn program. Act as project manager for contracted fire surrogate/wildland fuels management projects. Monitors natural communities for management needs and effects of management activities by conducting condition assessments of natural communities based on their reference communities; assists in the development and implementation of regional Land Management Plans by providing first‑hand knowledge of properties and conducting ground investigations; ensures proper implementation of various land management activities performed by other District employees, volunteers, and contractors. Participates in various land management activities such as restoration, reforestation, timber marking, timber harvesting, contract management, fence and gate repair, road improvements, and invasive plant removal. Collects and updates data for Geographic Information System database management. Creates work orders for property maintenance as needed. Participates in supervising volunteers, interns, or contractors. Assists in the coordination of the land management program with other divisions, agencies, and lessees by assisting in the formulation of agreements and licenses; ensuring compliance with agreements and licenses; assist in monitoring life estate or other conservation easements when needed; and maintaining contacts with cooperators and lessees. Coordinates feral hog management special use authorizations for the region. Protects District lands and facilities by assisting in the development of security plans, observing and reporting activities such as vandalism, poaching and wildfires, and maintaining good relations with local law enforcement personnel. Encourages public support for the land management program by assisting in the design, installation, and management of the District’s natural resource‑based recreation program including assisting in maintaining public access points, facilities, and trails; responding to public inquiries; conducting tours; making presentations; and attending meetings. Ability to Work in extreme conditions, communicate well with a variety of people in all situations; read and understand leases, contracts, and maps; give presentations both in‑house, to the public and other agencies. Handle various tasks with minimal supervision. Skilled In Identification of native and invasive plant species, development of site‑specific restoration and land management plans, computer operation (Geographic Information System (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS), word processing programs such as Microsoft Word, database management, spreadsheet management programs such as Microsoft Excel, etc.); power hand tool operation; chainsaw operation; map reading, record keeping and filing, and development and management of contracts, management agreements, leases, and special use authorizations. Physical Requirements/Working Environment Endure harsh outdoor environments in uncomfortable/extreme temperatures, inclement weather, rough terrain, venomous animals, rain, and other potential hazards. Participate in prescribed fire and wildfire management activities; drive trucks, ATVs, tractors, (other equipment), trailering of equipment, operate or learn to operate airboats, participates with invasive plant management activities as needed. Occasional overnight travel required. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university with a major in forestry, ecology, natural resources, wildlife management, natural science, or related field; or an associate degree from an accredited college in biology, environmental science, forest technology or related natural resource field and two years of progressively responsible natural resource management experience. Progressively responsible experience in natural resource management can substitute on a year‑for‑year basis for the required education. SJRWMD has determined this to be a mandatory‑testing position as described in Section 440.102, Florida Statutes. Any offer of employment for a mandatory testing position will be contingent upon successfully passing a drug screening paid by SJRWMD. Licenses Valid State of Florida Driver’s License. Starting Salary Range $46,800.00 - $58,489.60. Starting salary is based on qualifications and experience. Benefits Florida Retirement System, health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, long‑term disability, paid leave and holidays, professional development, wellness program, and eligible for public service student loan forgiveness program. Equal Employment Opportunity/Veterans’ Preference/Drug-Free and Tobacco-Free Workplace #J-18808-Ljbffr