Program Assistant - Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site Program (OPS)

Work Location: 1501 Dam Road, Bradenton, Florida 34212

Work Hours: 29 hours per week; offices are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm


Expected Starting Hourly Range: $17.36 - $21.70

Provides administrative, technical, operations, and outreach assistance for the Environmental Protection, Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site Program.

Employment screenings, as outlined in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual, will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal and Florida Laws. 

Working Conditions

The work environment may include exposure to high noise levels while performing certain essential job functions. The position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds independently and up to 50 pounds with assistance, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work may involve strenuous physical activity under varying climatic conditions and in both indoor and outdoor environments.  Position requires visual acuity and depth perception, as well as ability to hear and identify sounds. Regularly required to drive County vehicles as part of the duties of the job, occasionally pulling trailers. Periodically required to work other than normal business hours, including nights and weekends.  

Note: This is a part-time temporary OPS position. Not eligible for Health Benefits. Maximum six months assignment, with max of 29 hours worked per week.

Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. "The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position. Assists staff in the administration and promotion of assigned program. 

Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site Program
One or more years of work experience related to environmental science, biology or similar industry desired. Work hours: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.  Assists with the intake and release of gopher tortoises. Performs field work in remote locations in hot, humid conditions. Drives a County SUV while towing a trailer and drives an offroad UTV.  Helps with enclosure fence repair and equipment maintenance.

Provides educational information, data gathering and research support to program participants, volunteers, and the general public regarding assigned program. Assists with development and preparation of teaching aids, fact sheets, charts, etc. 

Strictly adheres to safety procedures to protect self, co-workers, volunteers, and the general public. Attends job-specific training classes as assigned by supervisor.  

Maintains records and documents regarding assigned program.  

May assist in compiling program reports for management use.

Represents assigned program at outreach events.  

Staffs program booth/table at events. 

Sets up and tears down displays and exhibits.  

Makes presentations; distributes educational and promotional materials.  

Acts as liaison between program participants, volunteers, community groups, and other relevant parties.  

May assist with administration of volunteer programs.  

Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee’s qualifications, essential job functions, and appliable federal and Florida law. 

High school diploma or equivalent. 

Valid driver license required with valid Florida driver license required within 30 days of hire.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions.  

Organizes own work and completes tasks within assigned timeframes. 

Able to resolve routine situations and problems.  

General knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties.  

General knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties. 

Depending on area of assignment, this may include social media platforms, online meeting platforms, Adobe Acrobat, ARC GIS, and/or QuickBooks.  

Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills to be able to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, volunteers, the general public, and other stakeholders.  

Able to communicate routine information.  

Capable of working under moderate supervision. 

Salary : $17 - $26