Biological Scientist IV – Manatee Rules Biologist

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Imperiled Species Management Section – Manatee Management Program
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Full-time | Career Service
Salary: $1,945.56 biweekly + benefits
Application Deadline: September 8, 2026

Help Shape the Future of Manatee Conservation in Florida

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Imperiled Species Management Section is seeking an experienced biologist to join the Manatee Management Program in Tallahassee.

This position offers an opportunity to apply biological science, data analysis, regulatory expertise, and stakeholder coordination to some of Florida's most important manatee conservation challenges. The position will have a primary focus on Florida manatee protection-zone rules, including rule development, scientific analysis, mapping, permitting, and coordination with local governments and stakeholders.

The position will also provide subject-matter expertise and administrative support for rule-related activities involving marine turtles, Florida panthers, and Florida black bears.

What You'll Do

Responsibilities include:

• Develop, monitor, and coordinate Florida manatee protection-zone rules, including preparation of legal descriptions, technical reports, maps, and supporting materials.
• Conduct detailed scientific data analyses to inform manatee management and regulatory decisions.
• Collect, evaluate, interpret, and defend biological data used to support management recommendations.
• Review and coordinate requests related to manatee protection zones, permits, and variances, maintaining complete and accurate records.
• Participate in the development and revision of county Manatee Protection Plans.
• Provide technical assistance to FWC staff, law enforcement, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, local governments, and stakeholder organizations on issues related to manatee conservation and habitat protection.
• Serve as an FWC representative at government and public meetings, administrative hearings, and FWC meetings.
• Coordinate with internal and external partners and serve as a principal investigator, contract manager, or liaison for assigned projects.
• Monitor proposed legislation during the Florida Legislative Session and identify bills that may affect imperiled species programs.
• Provide rule-related guidance and support to FWC programs responsible for marine turtles, Florida panthers, and Florida black bears.
• Serve in a leadership capacity for the Section's stranding and salvage carcass recovery program.
• Participate in site visits, field data collection, and other statewide assignments as needed.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for a science-minded, highly organized professional who is comfortable working at the intersection of biology, policy, regulation, and stakeholder engagement.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience with Florida manatee management or research.
• Experience with state or federal environmental regulatory programs and/or policy development.
• Knowledge of biological research methods and scientific data analysis.
• Experience collecting and interpreting biological data, particularly data involving imperiled or listed species.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare technical documents and communicate scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple complex assignments and deadlines.
• The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, local governments, stakeholders, and members of the public.
• The ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience with ArcGIS, ArcGIS Pro or ArcGIS Online, Google Earth Pro, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and SharePoint.

Why This Position Matters

Manatee Protection Zones are an important tool for reducing human-related threats to Florida's manatee population. This position provides the opportunity to help evaluate the science, develop regulatory recommendations, work with local communities, and ultimately shape how Florida protects manatees and their habitat.

The successful candidate will work with a diverse group of partners—including local governments, law enforcement, federal agencies, researchers, conservation organizations, and members of the public—on complex conservation and management issues affecting Florida's imperiled species.

Minimum Qualifications

A high school diploma and seven years of professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program are required. A relevant bachelor's degree may substitute for four years of the required experience.

Previous experience with Florida manatee management or research and/or state or federal environmental regulatory programs, including policy development, is highly preferred. A valid driver's license and the ability to participate in periodic statewide travel are required. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Position Details

Location: 1875 E. Orange Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32311
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Salary: $1,945.56 biweekly + benefits
Supervisory responsibility: 0–3 staff
Residency: Tallahassee
Application deadline: September 8, 2026