FISH AND WILDLIFE SEASONAL TECHNICIANS (3 positions)

Fish and wildlife seasonal technicians needed to assist the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) with a statewide survey for beach-nesting birds (Least Tern, Black Skimmer, Gull-billed Tern, and American Oystercatcher) nesting on flat roofs in coastal Florida. Three positions are available and will be primarily based in Southeast Florida, Pinellas County, and Volusia County; however, the actual location may be dependent on the applicants hired.  The ideal candidate would be available to start working April 27^th and continue through August 2^nd, 2018. The incumbent’s primary duties will involve surveying for nests, monitoring nesting pairs, identifying bird species nesting on tar and gravel roofs, and entering data. Other duties include conducting outreach to building managers and owners, and contacting stakeholders and partners to find new roof colonies. Incumbents will be expected to communicate regularly with project staff regarding the status of roofs surveyed and will be responsible for planning and tracking survey visits using mapping software and spreadsheets. Incumbents will be expected to safely perform fieldwork and maintain professional work ethics. Candidates should have the ability to work independently; be organized; be able to travel out of town; be willing to work flexible hours (including early mornings and late afternoons) and have a valid driver's license. Salary for this position is $15.00 per hour with a 40-hour work week. Housing is not provided. Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until Feb. 9^th, 2018.

Desired knowledge, skills and abilities:

1. Background in wildlife biology and/or ecology (ornithology preferred)
2. Experience with wildlife monitoring and surveying methods and techniques (shorebirds and seabirds preferred)
3. Ability to climb fixed as well as unattached ladders inside or outside multi-story building and to walk on large flat roofs without a fear of heights.
4. Proficiency navigating with maps and a handheld global positioning system
5. Excellent communication skills and demonstrated person to person and public speaking ability
6. Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
7. Experience using word processing and spreadsheets
8. Possession of a valid driver’s license and a safe driving record

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidates should be working towards or have received a Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology/management or closely related field. A completed degree is preferred. Prior field experience with bird species is preferred.

To apply: Email a cover letter detailing your bird identification knowledge/ability/experience, resume, and three references as a single document (PDF or Word) to Ariam Jimenez (Ariam.Jimenez@MyFWC.com).