Opportunity

Ocean Career: SFWMD Scientist Lead

The Applied Sciences Bureau of the South Florida Water Management District seeks a scientist that will assist with the development of water resource protection criteria for water bodies whose ecosystems are at risk of ecological degradation.

Water is protected by Florida Administrative Code Rule through Minimum Flows and Minimum Water Levels (MFL), Water Reservations, and Restricted Allocation Areas. Before criteria can be considered for adoption by Rule, the incumbent will work with ASB colleagues, attorneys, and regulatory staff to publish the technical criteria that provides the rationale for the protection. The incumbent will submit the work to a scientific peer review panel and participate in public meetings with stakeholders and staff from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the US Army Corps of Engineers. The incumbent will be responsible for annual reporting of priority water bodies in various formats. Periodic reevaluation of existing MFLs is also a responsibility of this position. The water resource protection team in ASB consists of this position and a lead scientist, both of whom report to the Bureau Chief. This position will receive guidance and direction from the lead scientist and bureau chief. Individuals whose experience focuses on linking surface water and groundwater hydrology to ecosystem processes, habitat responses, and external drivers of water flows and levels are especially urged to apply. Knowledge of relevant Florida statutes and rules is desired.

Monitoring, research, and modeling provides the scientific basis for management of water resources and the establishment of water protection criteria in South Florida. The candidate for this position should have demonstrable abilities in technical, oral, and written communication and in leading interdisciplinary teams in the application of science to develop appropriate water resource protection criteria. The ability to interact tactfully with the public, and clearly communicate water resource science to multiple audiences including stakeholders, agency personnel and the District's management team and governing board is required. Experience interpreting and analyzing model results and statistical analyses to understand the influence of water inflow on ecosystem function and biotic responses in surface waters is preferred, as is the use of ArcMap GIS software and statistical software such as SAS or R. Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is desired. Additional duties include coordination with stakeholders on rulemaking activities, arranging public workshops for presentation of draft rules and supporting technical information. The incumbent will author portions of the District’s annual South Florida Environmental Report and will contribute to District water supply plans as necessary meetings.

This position may be filled at the Senior Scientist level.

Employment Guidelines: (May be filled as a Senior Scientist)

Lead Scientist- Master’s degree in aquatic ecology, biology or a related discipline and at least eight years of qualifying experience that demonstrates measurable career progression within a science discipline that can be applied to support the District's strategic goals and objectives.

Senior Scientist- Master’s degree in aquatic ecology, biology or a related discipline and at least six years of qualifying experience that demonstrates measurable career progression within a science discipline that can be applied to support the District's strategic goals and objectives.

Licenses

A valid State of Florida Driver's License is required.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment

  • The incumbent will be mostly working in an office environment operating a personal computer. Some travel will be required to conduct business in the field or at remote locations.
  • 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.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment

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.

Composition of office and field work (percentage dependent upon position requirements), with regular exposure to a hot and humid environment in remote and heavy vegetative areas.

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

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