Job Description

Planner IV - Land Conservation

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a Land Conservation Planner (Planner IV). This position is located in Tallahassee, FL and works within the Land Conservation and Planning program of the Wildlife Habitat Management Section of the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A high school diploma and six years experience in a biological or planning field. A bachelor's degree can substitute for four of the six years of experience.
• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is preferred, along with two years of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work OR a master's degree in one of the biological sciences, urban planning, or a related field, along with one year of professional experience in planning, evaluation, research analysis, business, government, social services, health or rehabilitative services, or fiscal work.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects under tight deadlines, while ensuring compliance with Florida Statutes and the Florida Administrative Code.
• Strong public speaking and facilitation skills for conducting public meetings and presenting at public hearings related to the development of land management plans for state-owned conservation lands.
• Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS); formal GIS training and experience are preferred.
• Skilled in organizing, coordinating, and leading meetings with internal staff, external stakeholders, and representatives from other agencies.
• Ability to travel throughout Florida for up to five consecutive days, on occasion, for site visits, public meetings, and support of planning efforts.
• Possession of a valid Florida driver's license and ability to operate a state-owned vehicle is required.

Position Description:

The Land Conservation and Planning program of the Wildlife and Habitat Management Section is responsible for the implementation and administration of the FWC's land acquisition and management planning efforts. The program supports the protection and restoration of Florida's wildlife habitats and natural resources through comprehensive planning, public engagement, and inter-agency coordination. This position serves as a Land Conservation Planner (Planner IV) and will play a key role in managing land conservation planning projects, facilitating public meetings, conducting GIS analysis, coordinating with the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) and other state and regional partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate the development and updates of management plans for Wildlife Management Areas and Wildlife Environmental Areas, in collaboration with municipalities, stakeholders, FWC staff, and partner agencies such as the Florida Forest Service, Water Management Districts, and the Department of Environmental Protection.
• Assist in maintaining and updating GIS data layers related to FWC-managed lands, Florida Forever conservation projects, and potential acquisition areas.
• Plan and facilitate public stakeholder meetings and hearings required for the development of management plans, including logistical coordination, communication with internal and external partners, and preparation of meeting materials.
• Represent FWC at ARC meetings, presenting management plans and engaging in inter-agency coordination.
• Review management plans and amendments submitted by other agencies to ensure compliance with applicable statutes and policies.
• Participate in Land Management Reviews for FWC-managed areas.
• Support other program functions and special projects, such as acquisition project evaluations, Florida Forever prioritization efforts, procurement, and vehicle coordination.

Application packets must be submitted through the State of Florida's official employment site and must include a cover letter and resume in addition to the state application. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act. VETERANS' PREFERENCE. Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans' Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements. Candidates claiming Veterans' Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. Veterans' Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here.

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