Associate Research Scientist – FWC

State of Florida

Associate Research Scientist leading spatial modeling, monitoring, and mapping for Florida’s marine conservation agency. Managing marine ecologists, grants, field validation, and emerging technologies.

Posted 8/18/2026full-timeSt. Petersburg • Florida • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $58,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in marine ecology, spatial modeling, and habitat characterization while effectively managing research teams and projects. Proficient in utilizing GIS, remote sensing, and advanced analytical techniques to support marine resource management and research initiatives.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Marine EcologySpatial ModelingAdvanced ArcGISGrant ManagementTeam Supervision

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Benthic Habitat CharacterizationSampling DesignsPredictive AccuracyComputer Coding TechniquesRelational DatabasesStatistical SoftwareField WorkMachine Learning PipelinesInteractive DashboardsAutomated Unmanned Vehicles

Soft Skills

LeadershipCommunicationProject Management

Tools & Technologies

GISRemote SensingAcousticsStatistical SoftwareWord Processing SoftwareSpreadsheet SoftwareDatabase Software

Certifications & Qualifications

AAUS Diving CertificationFAA Part 107 LicenseSmall Boat Safety Course

Industry Keywords

Marine Spatial PlanningOceanographyGeographySeascapeLandscape

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Remote Sensing

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead a coastal- and marine-focused research team as principal investigator for spatially explicit modeling, monitoring, and mapping projects
Initiate research projects aligned with individual expertise and FWC priorities
Manage marine ecologists working on diverse research projects
Obtain and manage competitive grants as principal investigator
Review and coordinate regional partner activities involving benthic habitat characterization, mapping, alteration, and restoration
Review projects, proposals, and management decisions affecting marine resources
Use GIS, remote sensing, acoustics, and emerging technologies to support FWC priorities
Articulate marine resource management and research priorities with regional partners
Conduct field work to validate model predictions, quantify map accuracy, and maintain ocean observing assets
Promote machine learning pipelines, interactive dashboards, and automated unmanned vehicles
Prepare technical and scientific reports, manuscripts, and presentations
Supervise assigned personnel and monitor annual working budgets

Requirements

What you’ll need

8 years of professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory; or qualifying degree-and-experience alternative
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical or natural sciences or mathematics plus 4 years of professional experience; or master's degree plus 3 years; or doctorate plus 1 year
Satisfactory Level 1 background check
Cover letter and resume attached to PeopleFirst application
Knowledge of landscape, seascape, marine ecology, oceanography, geography, and marine spatial planning
Knowledge of sampling designs and methods for benthic habitat characterization, spatio-temporal trends, and predictive accuracy
Knowledge of computer coding techniques and relational databases
Knowledge of advanced ArcGIS and ESRI functions
Ability to supervise 5 to 10 researchers across 5 or more grant-funded projects simultaneously
Ability to use state-issued word-processing, spreadsheet, database, and statistical software
Ability to perform strenuous physical activities under arduous field conditions
Ability to travel in and out of state
Ability to complete small boat safety course and AAUS diving certification if requested
Ability to obtain an FAA Part 107 License if requested
Ability to maintain a valid Florida driver's license

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive health coverage with low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions
FRS Pension Plan or FRS Investment Plan retirement options
State university and community college tuition waiver program
Health premiums: $25.00 single / $90.00 family biweekly
No-cost $25,000 life insurance
Nine paid state holidays
One personal holiday per year
4 hours annual leave and 4 hours sick leave accrued biweekly
On-the-job trainings
Support for family planning, including paid maternity leave and adoption benefits
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Family Supportive Work Program (FSWP)
Paid leave for family and medical responsibilities for eligible employees
Paid administrative leave for mentoring, volunteering, voting, and other reasons