Requisition No: 873461
Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Working Title: OPS F&W BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST I - 77907126
Pay Plan: Temp
Position Number: 77907126
Salary: $19.50/hour
Posting Closing Date: 04/29/2026
Total Compensation Estimator Tool
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)
Section: Marine Fisheries Research
Biological Scientist I- OPS Position
$19.50 per hour
585 Prineville St
Port Charlotte, FL 33954
Anticipated Vacancy
Fisheries Dependent Monitoring
Biological Scientist I – OPS 77907126
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.
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.
Conduct directed field research and monitoring of commercial 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 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, participation in technical or scientific reports, and occasional sampling of recreational fisheries. The qualified applicant would be based at the Port Charlotte Field Lab in Port Charlotte, FL. The position requires frequent day-time travel in Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties, occasional overnight travel to St. Petersburg, and opportunities to 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 fishers and dealers; communicate effectively with the public and maintain field sampling equipment.
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.
