One (1) Biological Scientist I position is available in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Northwest region with work occurring primarily in Bay and Gulf Counties.

Wildlife Surveys:  Independently perform surveys of nesting and roosting seabird, shorebird, and wading bird populations through adult, nest, egg, and chick counts at areas near Critical Wildlife Areas in primarily in Bay County. Enter nesting and roosting data according to protocols outlined on the Florida Shorebird Database.  

Management Practices:  Work independently in posting sites near Critical Wildlife Areas and maintaining posted areas around nests throughout the nesting season, especially immediately after storm events or other disturbance events. Record GPS locations for posted areas and transfer the georeferenced data to spatial software such as Google Earth or ArcGIS.

Public and Partner Coordination: Communicate regularly with partners and the public on conservation activities. Respond professionally and effectively to questions and concerns. Work closely with existing partners, including Tyndall Air Force Base and Audubon Florida staff, to improve appreciation and support for Critical Wildlife Areas.

Surveillance and Stewardship:  Responsible for overseeing and maintaining closure of posted areas and educating the public, especially during times of high beach usage, and immediately following storm or other disturbance events.

Written reports: Provide detailed and real-time written reports regarding nesting species population status, management needs, and other relevant information to supervisor.

This is a part-time seasonal, field position beginning mid-April and will last throughout the nesting season (approximately mid-August). Work hours are up to 20 hours a week, depending on workload. Work will mostly be conducted on foot or ATV. Some surveys will be conducted by boat with other staff. No office space or housing will be provided. Candidate must be able to work on some weekends and Memorial Day and Fourth of July holidays.

The ideal candidate will have strong seabird and shorebird identification skills. Experience with ATVs is preferred. Candidate should have a highly flexible work schedule and can work with little direct supervision, in remote locations, and under hot and humid weather conditions. Strong interpersonal skills for communicating with the public and partners preferred. Applicants must possess a valid Driver’s License.