Field Research Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Requisition No: 880728 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Biological Scientist I - 77907437

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907437 

Salary:  $20 per hour 

Posting Closing Date: 08/17/2026 

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Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)

Section: Marine Fisheries Research

Biological Scientist I- OPS 77907437

$20 per hour

100 8th Ave SE

St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Fisheries Dependent Monitoring

Biological Scientist I - OPS 77907437

St. Petersburg, 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.

Minimum Qualifications

4 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

Experience removing otoliths through the gills

Florida Gulf Coast fish ID

Scientific data collection

Requirements:

Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate. 

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

This is an OPS (Other Personal Service) position.  It offers no benefits or moving expenses. Occasional overtime hours may occur. Hours worked over 40 per week, Friday to Thursday, are considered overtime and are paid @ 1.5 times the regular wage.  A personal vehicle is required, with reimbursement of $.76 per mile.

Conduct directed field research and monitoring of commercial and headboat fisheries from Florida's Gulf Coast waters by collecting detailed biostatistical data, including but not limited to: species composition, sex ratio, fish weight, and size of fish and shellfish from commercial and headboat catches. Interview fishermen to gather additional data on catch rates, effort, gear, and area fished. This position will also collect samples from marine fish for stock assessments and genetic analysis. Compile and enter data into databases as necessary. Data must be prepared and delivered in a timely manner. Evaluate collection procedures and suggest modifications. Participate in the development of methodologies for collecting appropriate biostatistical data on new and emerging fisheries. Maintain field sampling equipment. Additional duties may include data analysis, production of tables and figures for publication, and participation in technical or scientific reports. The qualified applicant would be based at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in St. Petersburg, FL. The position requires frequent day-time travel in Manatee, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Hernando counties, with occasional travel to other regions of Florida as needed. Perform other duties related to program and facility functions as requested by section supervisor. May participate in public outreach efforts, as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of and ability to: Identify marine fish and invertebrates from Florida's Gulf Coast waters; apply scientific sampling methodology and statistical techniques for analyzing fisheries data. Ability to: conduct field sampling of commercial and recreational catches of fish and interview fishers to obtain characteristics of their fishing trips; operate computers including tablets; submit travel electronically; use MS Office and other appropriate computer software; establish and maintain effective working relationships with FWC and other agency staff, and with commercial and headboat fishers and dealers; communicate effectively with the public and maintain field sampling equipment; maintain a valid driver's license.

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
*Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions. .

Health Premiums $25.00- Single / $90.00- Family Biweekly

Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance

OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan

On the Job Trainings

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

For a more complete list of benefits, visit https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/

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.