Temporary Freshwater Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Requisition No: 879431 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Biological Scientist II - 77907361

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907361 

Salary:  $20.00 per hour 

Posting Closing Date: 08/07/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Biological Scientist II - OPS Position

$20.00 per hour

601 W. Woodward Ave

Eustis, FL

Fish & Wildlife Research Institute

Freshwater Fisheries

OPS Biological Scientist II - 77907361

Eustis, FL  - $20/Hour

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:
5 years professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required

OR

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program;

OR A master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience. 

Preferred Qualifications: A degree in fisheries or other aquatic biology field

Requirements:

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

Office hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Not eligible for Telework.

Responses to qualifying questions should be verifiable by skills and/or experience stated on the profile application/resume.  Information should be provided regarding any gaps in employment.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The incumbent will be responsible for providing field-based assistance for the Long-Term Monitoring Team.  The duties include but not limited to:
Statewide sampling of freshwater fish using electrofishing, gillnets, trawl, push nets, and fyke nets. Statewide mapping of aquatic vegetation and bottom structure via boat-mounted sonar and intercept samples. Ability to troubleshoot and maintain gear, vehicles and vessels used in daily sampling. Record biological data on freshwater fish and plant samples. Collect and process fish ageing structures and interpret growth rings for fish ageing studies. Record, enter, and proof data into a database. Prepare written reports. Utilize mapping software to develop sample sites and maps. Ensure timesheets, receipts, and travel forms are submitted in a timely manner. Participate in professional meetings, continuing education workshops, seminars, publishing scientific manuscripts and public outreach events as directed. Effectively communicate with team and leadership on a regular basis about work progress, scheduling, any issues that arise, etc..  For more information about activities this position might be involved with at the Eustis Freshwater Fisheries Research Lab, please visit: Freshwater Fisheries Research - Eustis Lab Video  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:Basic understanding of the equipment and methods used for fish sampling.

Ability to operate trailer and boat.

Ability to swim.

Ability to maintain a valid drivers license.

Ability to operate basic laboratory and field equipment used to measure environmental parameters and fish populations.

Ability to follow instructions, work well in a team setting, and possess skills and personally to work well with a variety of people.

Familiarity using office automation software for data entry.

Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Ability to work and maintain a positive attitude in inclement weather conditions for extended periods of time.

Ability to work weekends, long hours, and extended overnight travel.

Why should I apply?

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.