Requisition No: 875222
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS Assistant Research Scientist - 77907455
Pay Plan: Temp
Position Number: 77907455
Salary: $26.50 per hour
Posting Closing Date: 05/26/2026
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FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute – Harmful Algal Blooms
Assistant Research Scientist – OPS Position
$26.50 per hour
100 8th Ave SE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute – Harmful Algal Blooms
Assistant Research Scientist - OPS 77907455
St. Petersburg, Florida - $26.50 per 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.
The Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) group of the FWC-Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) in St. Petersburg, FL, invites applications for an OPS Assistant Research Scientist to coordinate and participate in the culturing of and experimentation with Karenia and other HAB species as part of the FWC Center for Red Tide Research. This position involves maintaining a culture collection and planning and executing independent and collaborative systematic, life history, ecological, physiological, and applied research on harmful algae. The successful candidate will implement strong laboratory, field, and communication approaches to provide critical operational support to statewide HAB monitoring and research efforts. Other responsibilities include oral and written communications on the state of HAB research and events to varied audiences.
Minimum Qualifications:
7 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 major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and three years of professional experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics; or
A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and two years of professional experience as described above; or
A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics can substitute for the required experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
Preference may be given to candidates with a degree in marine ecology or oceanography; experience culturing harmful algae in a laboratory setting; experience designing and conducting experiments for phytoplankton physiology; and experience with flow cytometry and PAM fluorometry.
Requirements:
Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate.
To be considered for this position a Cover Letter and Resume MUST be attached to your PeopleFirst Application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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.
and Responsibilities:
The employee will be responsible for activities in support of ongoing monitoring and research for the Harmful Algal Blooms subsection at FWC/FWRI. Specific duties include:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
A strong working knowledge of: algal culturing techniques and isolation; algal systematics, ecology and physiology; experimental design for physiological research; nutrient stoichiometry; microscopy and fluorometry ( e.g. PAM fluorometry and flow cytometry); standard sampling practices for phytoplankton ecology; standard laboratory equipment and safety protocols for sterile techniques, preparation of chemical solutions; Microsoft Office Suite, data management and statistical data analysis software.
Skills to: formulate and prepare algal growth media and primary stock solutions; use aseptic/sterile techniques for cell isolation and cultivation; maintain instruments and equipment; learn, validate, implement, and document laboratory and field phytoplankton techniques and technologies to enhance the culture collection and culture-based experiments; collect, record, manage, and analyze data; conduct checks for quality assurance and control of data, establish tractable practices, guidelines, and timelines for multiple projects and present to supervisor and HAB leaders, participating in HAB monitoring and event response activities as needed; maintain detailed records; prepare technical reports and contribute to scientific manuscripts
Ability to: synthesize interdisciplinary concepts; manage time effectively for both routine maintenance of cultures and dedicated experiments; work independently and as part of a team, effectively coordinate with team members; utilize problem-solving techniques; provide regular updates on progress and setbacks; understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
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.
Join Florida’s talented workforce to fulfill your professional goals and achieve a meaningful career. Our talented public servants work hard to serve more than 19 million residents across Florida, and you, too, can realize success in the Sunshine State.
Working in Florida’s state government means being responsive to the issues impacting the taxpayers of our state. Florida’s state government boasts both fast-paced work environments in which critical thinking and creative problem-solving are a must as well as steady employment opportunities that prize consistent service to our state’s residents. In some positions, state employment means being able to influence policy decisions and help implement change. In others, state employment means being the reliable resource that our taxpayers have come to expect from Florida’s public servants. All positions offer the ability to gain valuable experience quickly, improving your overall skillset. The State of Florida is seeking individuals with leadership skills, creativity and dedication to their fellow Floridians and individuals who recognize the professional development opportunities and achievements possible through state service.
Florida boasts the third largest population in the country and is richly diverse in both population and landscape. With an award-winning park system, warm weather and beautiful bodies of water, Florida is the perfect environment for recreational activities and outdoor enthusiasts. Our favorable tax climate means your income goes further and our business-friendly policies foster private sector growth. Joining Florida’s talented, diverse workforce provides the opportunity to achieve your professional goals while living in a state that values quality of life, culture and recreation. For employment opportunities with the State of Florida, visit https://jobs.myflorida.com.
