Please visit this link for details and to apply. OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 37932015 Job Details | State of Florida

Position Overview and Responsibilities:

The OPS Environmental Specialist I serves as the GIS / Plant Resource Restoration Specialist for the St. Joseph State Buffer Preserve part of the Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection. The primary duties include addressing large scale map projects which include the conservation, preservation and restoration of upland and wetland natural communities. Responsible for, assist with and/or actively participates in the planning, coordinating, and implementing of activities such as GIS and field duties within resource management, maintenance, administration, protection and enhancing public appreciation. Performs other duties as required and assigned.

This diverse position oversees three focus points:

Restoration and planning
ArcGIS map creations and database management
Native and Non-native plant management

Natural Resource Management
Imperiled species management
Water quality and well monitoring

Prescribed burning
Preparation and completion
Wildfire suppression

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the terminology and principles of the physical or natural resources.
• Knowledge of the operation of field and monitoring equipment.
• Ability to generate professional ArcGIS maps.
• Ability to update, maintain and develop maps and spatial databases for projects
• Work and communicate effectively with the staff, volunteers, public and representatives of other agencies in a tactful and courteous manner both verbally and in writing.
• Work independently and efficiently while conducting land management activities and being self-motivated on work initiatives; at times this may involve extended hours in the field in sometimes adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to work various hours and weekends to assist with prescribed fires and festivals, which will go over the eight-hour scheduled day.
• Ability to be adaptable, flexible, and resourceful and to maintain a positive outlook.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds while walking over uneven terrain.
• Ability to successfully meet position-specific DRP Burn Standards for Prescribed Fire.

Minimum Qualifications:  

At least 1 year of verifiable related experience in ArcGIS. Post-secondary degrees from an accredited college or university with a major in ArcGIS may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year-for-year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.

Candidates for this position must take the moderate pack test which requires the applicant to complete a two mile walk while carrying 25 pounds in under 30 minutes or if providing proof of a prior moderate pack test, complete a one mile walk in under 16 minutes while carrying no weight. Successful completion of annual pack test per DRP Burn Standard. Candidates must be able to perform this task within 30 days of accepting the position. 

Valid Driver License is required

Position of Special Trust Requirement:

This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust in accordance with DEP Directive 422, Positions of Special Trust or Responsibility. Successful completion of background screening will be required for this position.

Pay:

The approved pay rate for this position is $19.50 per hour for 40 working hours per week. 

Our Organization and Mission:

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship - protecting our air, water and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida’s position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state’s economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies. We believe in supporting and encouraging you as you take on important and often complex projects while offering you the opportunity to gain valuable experience quickly.

Where You Will Work:

The position will reside at the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve, located in Port St. Joe, Florida, within Gulf County. The surrounding area is rural and dominated by a working waterfront. Port St. Joe is a small community reliant on tourism and the fishing industry. Our offices are positioned directly on the coast of the St. Joseph Bay. Less than 5% of a working day is required to travel to locations within the county to perform mission critical duties.