OPS Fisheries and Wildlife Technician (Lake Placid, FL)

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is hiring an OPS Fisheries and Wildlife Technician in Lake Placid, FL, with a starting salary of $18.23 per hour. The role involves habitat management, invasive species control, and ecological monitoring in a biodiverse region. Candidates need a high school diploma and at least one year of relevant experience. The position requires outdoor work and some public engagement, with a full-time schedule.
Position Overview

Salary/Compensation: Starting at $18.23 per hour
Application Deadline: 05/18/2025
Starting Date: After 05/18/2025
Hours per Week: 40
Education Required: High School Diploma
Experience Required: At least 1 year

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) seeks an enthusiastic technician to support habitat and wildlife management activities within the Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area. Based in Highlands County, this OPS (Other Personnel Services) role focuses on invasive plant control, ecological monitoring, and conservation support in one of Central Florida’s most biodiverse regions.

Description

As part of FWC’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation, this technician position plays a vital role in restoring and managing sensitive ecosystems. Working closely with biologists, the technician contributes to both game and non-game species conservation, invasive species control, and fire ecology programs. This field-based role supports broader public education efforts by engaging with partners and visitors, reinforcing stewardship and conservation goals across Southwest Florida.

Responsibilities
• Assist with chemical and mechanical vegetation control
• Conduct wildlife surveys and data collection
• Support prescribed fire operations and check station management
• Maintain detailed reports on herbicide application and daily activities
• Communicate area rules, wildlife insights, and ecological updates to the public
• Operate 4WD vehicles, ATVs, UTVs, and trailers
• Assist with equipment upkeep and remote field troubleshooting

Minimum Requirements
• High school diploma or equivalent
• At least 1 year of relevant field experience
• Valid Florida driver’s license
• Ability to identify invasive plant species or willingness to learn
• Able to lift 50 lbs and work outdoors in rugged terrain
• Proficient with ArcGIS and GPS tools
• Comfortable working independently and in teams
• Ability to meet residency requirement within 25 miles of the field office

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with invasive species treatment
• Familiarity with native Central Florida vegetation
• Background in prescribed fire practices
• Demonstrated public engagement or environmental communication

Additional Notes
• OPS role (non-career service) with a maximum of 1,920 hours/year
• Participation in group health insurance offered
• Must pass background check and occasional overnight travel required
• Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM schedule

How to Apply

Apply online at: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/LAKE-PLACID-OPS-Fish-&-Wildlife-tech-77901618-FL-33852/1288416000/
Contact:
Ethan Noel
Ethan.Noel@MyFWC.com (preferred contact method)