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Requisition No: 879851 

Agency: Environmental Protection

Working Title: ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 37020844

 Pay Plan: Career Service

Position Number: 37020844 

Salary:  $3,602.50 monthly 

Posting Closing Date: 07/31/2026 

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Environmental Specialist I - 37020844

State of Florida

Department of Environmental Protection

This position is located in Tallahassee, FL

Anticipated Position

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The entry level Environmental Specialist I in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration's Biology Program, Toxicology Laboratory in Tallahassee and will be responsible for conducting and analyzing aquatic toxicity bioassays. This work provides the department and other resource agencies with the highest quality laboratory services available.

In carrying out the duties of this position, the incumbent ls expected at all times to be aware of and abide by the Department's Standards of Conduct, as well as any and all departmental and/or work unit rules, directives, policies, procedures, and/or general orders applicable to performing the duties of this position as it pertains to the environmental impact on the State of Florida.

Performs aquatic toxicity tests using algae, invertebrate, and vertebrate test organisms in the Aquatic Toxicity Workgroup to access the hazards and pollutants that adversely affect the environment, property, and health of the population. Assist Senior Biologist in studies/special projects using toxicity testing and bioassay procedures. Participates in the design, evaluation, and operation of testing of dischargers for compliance with state and federal regulations using aquatic toxicity tests. Assist with training analysts in bioassay techniques. Performs routine laboratory QA/QC and ensures that laboratory supplies are maintained for operational efficiency. Initiates resolution of laboratory issues including but not limited to instrument repair, culture problems, and test conflicts. Collect and transports samples from commercial carriers to the laboratory, including picking up samples on weekends. Maintains bioassay logbooks. Attend meetings and represent the Toxicity workgroup as needed. Performs Algal Growth Potential (AGP) tests. Reviews and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance. Retrieves and interprets analytical data, performs statistical analysis of results, and assists with bioassay report writing.

Performs other work as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and techniques used in biological research, analysis, or testing.
2. Knowledge of the procedures, techniques, QA/QC, and equipment used in aquatic toxicity testing.
3. Skill in the use of scientific laboratory and field equipment.
4. Skill in the use of computers, including Microsoft Office software, internet resources, and other computer programs.
5. Ability to collect, record, and analyze scientific data relating to the biological sciences.
6. Ability to understand and follow verbal and written technical instructions for laboratory analysis, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and QA/QC procedures.
7. Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments.
8. Ability to calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment.
9. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
10. Ability to use laboratory personal protective equipment and work with acids, acetone, and other chemicals.
11. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
12. Ability to work independently and to work well in a group.
13. Ability to lift 50 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least four (4) years of verifiable related experience in biological sciences, environmental science, natural sciences, or physical sciences. Post-secondary degrees from an accredited college or university with a major in biological, environmental, natural, 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.

Other job requirements:

• Occasional day travel.
• Regular weekend and holiday work.
• Valid Driver's License.

Pay:

$3,602.50 / Month

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, 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 total compensation package for employees features a highly competitive set of employee benefits including:

• Annual and Sick Leave benefits;
• Nine paid holidays and one Personal Holiday each year;
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options;
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions (For more information, please click www.myfrs.com);
• Tuition waivers;
• Total Compensation Estimator Tool
• And more!

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

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.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE.  Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans' Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply.  Certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements.  Candidates claiming Veterans' Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code.  Veterans' Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here.  All documentation is due by the close of the vacancy announcement.