SCIENTIST 4

The Coastal Ecosystem Section (CES) at the South Florida Water Management District seeks an Estuarine Systems Scientist with experience using multivariate statistical analyses and modeling tools to understand the influence of freshwater inflow on the ecosystem function and biotic responses of estuaries and coastal systems. Candidates with research experience focused on estuarine communities and with demonstrable abilities in linking ecosystem processes, habitat responses, and external drivers in estuaries are especially urged to apply. Knowledge of and experience working in South Florida estuarine systems including the St. Lucie, Caloosahatchee, and Loxahatchee River estuaries is desirable.

Key Responsibilities:

• Compiling large datasets in Microsoft Excel and summarizing current estuarine ecological conditions in reports and presentations weekly
• Authoring technical reports, including CES portions of the South Florida Environmental Report annually, and providing technical writing support for CES staff
• Co-authoring data SOPs for CES projects
• Serving as the section data manager and conducting data QAQC and file organization
• Conducting statistical analyses of data and graphing scientific data
• Participating in section field sampling efforts and administrative duties with section staff
• Contributing to programs focused on District priorities which include Lake Okeechobee operational protocols, Minimum Flows and Minimum Water Levels, the Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program, and the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Program.

Preferred Qualifications:
Excellent technical, oral, and written communication skills with the ability to communicate complex scientific topics to stakeholders, water managers, agency personnel, the District’s management team, and the governing board

• Extensive experience using Microsoft suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) is required
• Strong organizational skills with experience in data management
• Proficient in creating maps and data visualizations using ArcGIS Pro
• Experience in coding (using Python, Visual Basic, or R) is desired
• Experience in ecological modeling (such as habitat suitability index models) is desired

This position may be filled as a Scientist 3 based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Education/Experience Guidelines:
Scientist 4: Bachelor's Degree in Natural or Physical Sciences and 4 years of qualifying experience that demonstrates measurable career progression within a scientific discipline that can be applied to support District goals and objectives. Master’s Degree preferred.

Scientist 3: Bachelor's Degree in Natural or Physical Sciences and 2 years of qualifying experience that demonstrates measurable career progression within a scientific discipline that can be applied to support District goals and objectives. Master’s Degree preferred.

Licenses
A valid State of Florida Driver’s License is required.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment
Ability to work in estuarine environments in South Florida. The candidate must be able to swim and snorkel in coastal and estuarine environments. Ability to trailer and captain a small watercraft is preferred, but not required.

Due to the District’s response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position may at times, be required to provide support before, during and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes or other declared emergencies, depending on assigned emergency response role.

Veterans' Preference
Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment for vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Candidates claiming Veterans’ Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. All documentation is due by the close of the job posting.

Americans with Disabilities Act
The South Florida Water Management District is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Bureau at HR_Solutions@sfwmd.gov

$62,524.80

$89,502.40

WR4304323 NORTH SCIENCE UNIT

$116,480.00