Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Florida

Requisition No: 881631 

Agency: Environmental Protection

Working Title: OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 37940198

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 37940198 

Salary:  23.38 hourly 

Posting Closing Date: 08/18/2026 

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OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I

State of Florida

Department of Environmental Protection

This position is located in Tallahassee, FL

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The OPS Environmental Specialist I (37940198), is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration's Biology Program, Molecular Biology section in Tallahassee and will be responsible for preparing environmental samples for qPCR analysis and performing laboratory maintenance activities. This work provides the department and other resource agencies with the highest quality laboratory services available. This entry level position will:

• Perform sample filtration and extraction for quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses.
• Prepare reagents, standards, and media for sample analysis.
• Perform quality control and pipette calibrations in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Perform equipment cleaning, maintenance, and calibration.
• Use LIMS to record reagent and sample information. 
• Participate in glassware cleaning.  Ensure laboratory cleanliness.
• Participate in field sampling and cross training activities as needed.
• Other work as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience preparing reagents and standards.
• Experience with DNA extraction methods.

• Knowledge of general microbiology and molecular biology.
• Knowledge of biological and laboratory QA/QC principals and methods.
• Skill in the use of scientific laboratory equipment such as balance, autoclave, centrifuge, vortexes etc.
• Skill in collecting, recording, and interpreting scientific data.
• Skill in determining workload priorities and ensuring proper completion of work assignments.
• Skill in the use of computers, including Microsoft Office software and internet resources.
• Ability to use laboratory personal protective equipment and work with acids, acetone, and other chemicals.
• Ability to understand and follow technical instructions for laboratory analysis, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Ability to work at counter height for long stretches of time with periods of frequent movement about the laboratory.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. 
• Ability to think and work independently.
• Ability to participate in sampling for special studies.
• Ability to maintain a valid Driver License and travel.

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least four years of verifiable related experience in biological, natural, environmental, or physical sciences. Post-secondary degrees from an accredited college or university with a major in biological, natural, environmental, or physical sciences may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year-for-year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees. 
• An official transcript is required of the selected candidate to confirm qualifications for the position. 
• Valid Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree
• Experience with DNA extraction methods

Pay:

 $23.38 Hourly.

Our Organization and Mission:

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state's lead agency for environmental management and stewardship - protecting our air, water and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida's position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state's economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies. We believe in supporting and encouraging you as you take on important and often complex projects while offering you the opportunity to gain valuable experience quickly.

Where You Will Work:

Tallahassee - Tallahassee, Florida's Capital City, lined with rolling hills, oak trees, and canopied roads combine old world charm with a modern pace of life. Home to two major universities as well as state government, Tallahassee is a mid-sized city in the heart of Florida's Big Bend. Tallahassee is a highly desirable location for both those seeking their first job or those ready to enter the next exciting chapter in their career.

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:

Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. The State's benefits package for eligible OPS employees includes:

• Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements*).  
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax deferred Retirement Savings Plan, for more information, please visit Corebridge Financial).
• Flexible Spending Accounts;
• And more!

For a complete list of benefits, visit www.mybenefits.myflorida.com.

*Seasonal and part-time OPS employees (less than 30 hours average per week) refer to the links above for detailed eligibility requirements.

Special Notes:

DEP is committed to successfully recruiting and onboarding talented and skilled individuals into its workforce. We recognize the extensive training, experience, and transferable skills that veterans and individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to contact our recruiter for guidance and answers to questions through the following email addresses:

HR_VeteransPreference@dep.state.fl.us

HR_Recruitment@FloridaDEP.gov

An individual with a disability is qualified if he or she satisfies the skills, experience, and other job-related requirements for a position and can perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must contact the DEP Human Resources (HR) Office at (850) 245-2511. DEP requests applicants notify HR in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.