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September 6, 2008

FWC/Fish and Wildlife Research Institute OPS Biological Scientist I

posted as a courtesy. Please do not contact me about this position-Dida

40 Hours/Week + overtime

Position Description:

Participate as a team member in the coral reef monitoring and evaluation project (CREMP) in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) and Dry Tortugas. Participate in field data collection using underwater photography, videography, and other sampling equipment. Make in situ species identifications of selected marine benthic taxa and stony corals. Assist the CREMP team in the mobilization and demobilization for all field operations. Perform other duties as needed to meet the project objectives of the coral reef research group and the Ecosystem Assessment and Restoration Section.

Maintain proficiency as Institute diver, including advanced SCUBA and NITROX capabilities according to AAUS standards. Assist in the safe operation of Institute research vessels and operation of portable SCUBA compressor. With training, operate cascade air fill station to refill diving cylinders. Assist in maintenance of diving, field, safety and laboratory equipment. Participate in training for additional field studies and participate in other coral research projects as directed.

Serve as the primary team member responsible for post-processing of video images and creating data files using coral image analysis programs. With training, responsible for incorporating QA/QC procedures as specified in frame grabbing of underwater video and creation of coral image analysis files. Assist with data entry, creation of summary tables, and digital graphics products. Identify stony coral species and octocoral, sponge and other selected taxa from CDROM images and assist in preparation of reports and manuscripts.

NOTE: This position requires extended travel in the field. Travel often requires 2 week stays in the field and requires working on weekends; workweeks in the field are often 60 hours. Overtime is paid for work over 40 hours in one workweek. Travel expenses will be reimbursed. This position is based in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Education & Experience:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences. Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated proficiency in computer programming.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of marine biology and/or ecology
Knowledge of principles of SCUBA diving, diving safety
Knowledge of and ability to safely operate boats, trailers and related equipment
Knowledge of basic mechanics/equipment maintenance demonstrated ability to apply that knowledge
Knowledge of use and maintenance of underwater camera/video equipment
Knowledge of PC computer software (Word, Excel, Windows, Access, PRIMER, Raven view)
Skill in using computer software programs
Skill in basic use of marine navigation and electronics equipment
Demonstrated skill in seamanship
Skill in SCUBA diving and underwater navigation
Demonstrated organizational and communication skills and ability to complete assigned tasks in a timely manner
Ability to work as a team member to accomplish project goals
Ability to participate in heavy physical exertion while swimming or diving
Ability to meet the American Academy of Underwater Sciences scientific diver standards
Ability to obtain mixed gas (NITROX) certification
Ability to lift heavy equipment up to 50 lbs
Ability to endure long work hours and extensive periods of time in the field
Ability to learn advanced computer software applications, marine benthic taxonomy and in situ species identifications

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
Valid driver's license and open water SCUBA certification required. Class D drivers license, advanced diving certification (NITROX) and current CPR and First Aid certifications required post-employment.

TO APPLY:
All applicants must submit an electronic application through People First (https://peoplefirst.myflorida.com/ ) before the closing deadline (9/18/08). In addition, applicants are required to submit an electronic copy of their resume, cover letter, and names of three references by the closing date to Mr. Jim Kozlowski. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

For more information contact Jim Kozlowski at:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute
100 8th Avenue SE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727-896-8626 x 3202

A link to this job announcement is available at http://jobs.myflorida.com/viewjob.html?refnode=1115559

Closing deadline: 9/19/08

FWC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/American Disability Act Employer. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, as defined by the ADA, please contact the hiring authority in advance. Federal law requires that we hire only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized aliens who can provide proof of their identity and employment eligibility.

Thank you,

Rob Ruzicka
Coral Program
FL Fish & Wildlife Research Institute
100 8th Ave SE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727-896-8626 x 1134
Email
Posted by Dida at September 6, 2008 11:12 AM

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