The University of Florida, Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Davie, Florida (the Croc Docs) is seeking enthusiastic individuals who will work with scientists from the University of Florida as well as scientists and managers from state and federal agencies. The alligator and crocodile biologist will assist with research and monitoring projects in the Florida Everglades, Jamaica, and Belize. Available positions require a minimum one-year commitment that may be extended depending on performance and funding. Candidate will be expected to work 40 hours a week, including nights and occasional weekends. We are currently advertising to fill positions at three possible levels: Biologist, Senior Biologist, and Supervisory Biologist. Review of applications will begin January 2019 and continue until a suitable candidate is found.
Applicants are encouraged to visit the lab’s website or Facebook page for more information (http://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu) or (https://www.facebook.com/TheCrocDocs).
Required Qualifications
Possess degree in ecology, biology, wildlife, environmental science, or related field
Knowledge of aquatic ecosystems
Excellent communication skills and accurate data recording
Possession or ability to obtain a valid Florida driver’s license
Experience navigating off-trail and over water with aid of GPS and compass
Experience operating vehicles with 4WD
Experience driving boats or airboats
Maintain work quality and positive attitude in challenging, muddy, rocky, remote settings in hot and humid weather with lightning, biting insects, large reptiles, venomous snakes, and poisonous plants
Biologist
Primary duties include spotlight surveys and captures of American alligators and American crocodiles in the Florida Everglades, radio telemetry, boat and vehicle maintenance, and data management. Previous work with crocodilians preferred. May be required to assist with other active projects.
Senior Biologist
Primary duties and qualifications listed at the biologist level as well as developing surveys, leading field crews and training others to perform field or office duties, assisting with report analyses and drafting, possession of a MSc or equivalent experience (3 years). Interest in developing quantitative skills, experience in statistical analyses, Program R, GIS, and database management preferred.
Supervisory Biologist
Primary duties and qualifications listed at the Senior Biologist level as well as project oversight and report preparation, coordination and collaboration with partner agencies, manage staff of 3-5 biologists per project, prepare project deliverables on-time, possess strong communication and writing skills for the creation of proposals, reports and peer-reviewed publications, and graduate degree (MSc, PhD) or equivalent experience (5 years). Knowledge of crocodilian capture techniques preferred. Experience in statistical analyses, Program R, GIS, and databases, and at least one year of experience managing wildlife research projects required.
Start date: As soon as ideal candidate(s) are identified and available.
Salary: Commensurate with experience and level of position.
To Apply: Please email letter of interest, resume or CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Frank Mazzotti at thecrocdocs@gmail.com and indicate the level for which you are applying in the subject heading: “Alligator & Crocodile Biologist”, “Alligator & Crocodile Senior Biologist”, or “Alligator & Crocodile Supervisory Biologist.”