OPS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Manatee Photo-identification Research Staff

Section:  Wildlife Research

Sub-section:  Marine Mammals

Location:  Saint Petersburg, Florida (Pinellas County)

Rate of Pay:  $11.00-$12.00 per hour, dependent on experience.  No paid benefits.  Full-time (40 hours/week)

Closing Date:  Sunday, August 23, 2009

Brief Description of Job Duties:

Assist in all aspects of the manatee photo-identification project.  Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: photographing manatees, independently operating and trailering vessels up to 24’ in length, collecting environmental and behavioral data, collecting genetic samples from free ranging manatees, matching images to known animals, drawing composite scar sketches of manatees, data entry and verification, equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, management of volunteers/interns, and public outreach.  Travel and working on weekends will be required periodically. 

Desired Qualifications:

A bachelor's degree with a major in one of the biological sciences.  The successful candidate must have strong computer skills, preferably including experience with Microsoft Office applications (particularly Microsoft Access) and photo-editing/management software.  Previous experience in photo-identification, in the operation of digital SLR cameras, and in boat handling and trailering is strongly desired.  Patience, organizational skills, attention to detail, strong oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work successfully with a number of different cooperators are essential qualifications for this position.  Qualified applicants will also need to be adept at independent problem-solving and time management to succeed in this position.  

Applicants should apply through the PeopleFirst website at https://peoplefirst.myflorida.com (enter 77900917 in the keyword search field).  In addition, in order to be considered for the position, qualified applicants must submit by the closing date a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references via email to Kari.Rood@MyFWC.com.