Other Personnel Service (OPS) Research Associates, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Office hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Not eligible for Telework.
$26 per hour, eligible for overtime (paid at time and a half)
Two Vacancies available.
Position Overview and Responsibilities:
Both positions will involve phytoplankton identification, microscopy, laboratory support, and data management. One position expects already acquired expertise in the identification of HAB taxa; the other position expects already acquired expertise in the identification of phytoplankton taxa more broadly. Each role involves independent and collaborative work across multiple program areas, with emphasis on accuracy, consistency, and adherence to established protocols. Responsibilities of the positions include the following:
Support the HAB monitoring program by working independently to identify HAB species and with other lab members of the taxonomy laboratory to prioritize daily tasks and ensure that sample analysis is conducted by specified deadlines; tasks include receiving and logging samples into databases; identifying and enumerating marine and estuarine phytoplankton species collected in live and preserved samples; entering data into databases; learning new taxa and taxonomic methodologies; and communicating data results internally and externally.
Support HAB monitoring and research by conducting in depth taxonomic identification as part of targeted research efforts; this includes assisting and/or leading method development and refinement for light and/or electron microscopy (EM) microalgae studies, fostering the learning and teaching of phytoplankton taxonomic advancements, and supporting EM efforts, including sample preparation and analysis.
Assist HAB monitoring and research by participating in research and event response efforts by analyzing and sharing scientific data internally and externally. This includes receiving/providing training on phytoplankton identification, including methods of sampling and analysis, as well as database use, technical report writing, proofing data and reports, and sharing reports with target audiences.
Assist HAB monitoring and research by collaborating on database-related tasks, assisting with directed assignments as needed, and contributing to advancing internal and external reporting strategies. Also, provide support to the volunteer program by assisting with communications in aiding strategic recruitment and retention, sharing relevant information, as well as maintaining accurate records of microscopy, training, database, and volunteer-related activities.
Update supervisor regularly on work progress and any issues. The employee will be open to the possibility of supervising assigned staff within the microscopy program, establishing and coordinating job duties.
Collaboration with other researchers and participation in other Harmful Algal Bloom Program activities, such as field work and outreach, is expected as requested.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Strong knowledge of phytoplankton morphology and taxonomy, including aspects pertaining to life cycle, physiology, toxicity, and ecology, and with a focus on species that form harmful algal blooms (HABs); diverse techniques for the identification and enumeration of phytoplankton; basic principles and procedures implemented in microscopy; data collection and analysis.
Skills to identify phytoplankton to the genus and species level, particularly Florida HABs; plan and coordinate work assignments; collect, record and analyze data; maintain records; contextualize findings about phytoplankton species composition and abundance; maintain and order laboratory equipment and supplies as needed; prepare and disseminate technical reports and peer reviewed publications; prepare reagents following established protocols; communicate effectively with staff and partners; supervise assigned staff.
Ability to work as part of a team of researchers and share laboratory space to complete tasks timely and efficiently; use microscopes for extended periods of time (4-6 hours per day); establish and maintain working relationships with others within and outside the agency; work independently; utilize problem-solving techniques; guide, oversee, and mentor junior staff; learn and/or teach new taxonomic methods and/or standard operating procedures; learn new taxa; stay current in taxonomic designations for Florida HABs and other microalgae; understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
- Posted: November 12, 2025
- Job Type: Staff
- Application deadline (expired): 11/17/2025
- Organization: Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) group at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)-Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
- Qualifications: Minimum Qualifications: Six years (6) professional experience in a closely-related biological field or laboratory program is required. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and two years of experience in one of the physical or natural sciences or mathematics; or two years of experience as a Research Assistant – FWC; or, a master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for one year of the required experience; or, a doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the educational areas listed above can substitute for the required experience. Preferred Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in: microalgae identification by light, fluorescence, and/or electron microscopy; cultivation of microalgae; molecular or imaging techniques applied to microorganism taxonomy and physiology; and/or, expertise with phytoplankton and harmful algae (and in particular, expertise in cyanobacteria, dinoflagellate, and/or other flagellate taxonomy).
- How to apply: Apply on website: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/ST-PETERSBURG-OPS-Research-Associate-77901693-FL-33701/1337793500/. The application package must include a cover letter and a resume/CV
- Location: Saint Petersburg, FL
- Web address: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/ST-PETERSBURG-OPS-Research-Associate-77901693-FL-33701/1337793500/
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