This is paraprofessional work in the management of coastal zone and other biological resources.

Employees in this class assist environmental professionals in various phases of resource restoration or regulatory programs, including beach restoration and monitoring, Biscayne Bay restoration and enhancement, artificial reef construction, wildlife protection, and coastal, wetland and tree permitting programs. Duties include assisting with beach surveys, water quality sampling, biological assessment of shoreline submerged habitats, preparation of routine permitting documents, maintenance of technical equipment and boats, recordkeeping, filing and other clerical functions. Employees exercise some knowledge of biological principles, methods and procedures, and computerization related to marine, wetland or forest environments. Supervision is received from an environmental professional who reviews work for satisfactory completion of assigned tasks.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Under supervision of professional biologists, assists in monitoring and assessment of reef and seagrass habitats, using scuba-diving techniques.

Assists in collection of data on endangered species, such as manatees or sea turtles, or other wildlife including sitings and habitats assessments.

Assists in collection of water quality samples using appropriate field meters or scientific equipment; delivers samples to laboratory; assembles and prepares supplies, meters, sample bottles.

Compiles routine monitoring and permitting data and enters into established computer data bases.

Makes on-site inspections for on-going restoration projects and routine permit applications; prepares memo-form reports on inspections.

Compiles support materials such as aerials, plat maps, surveys and records necessary for the development of restoration projects and permit applications.

Performs routine maintenance of field equipment, diving equipment, and boats.

Maintains a technical library.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge of the science of Biology in the area of assignment.

Knowledge of scuba-diving techniques and practices.

Knowledge of technical sampling equipment.

Knowledge of computer data bases applicable to biological services.

Knowledge of South Florida ecosystems and their functions and values.

Ability to assist professionals in monitoring and assessment of biological systems, data collection, and collection of field samples.

Ability to use scuba-diving equipment safely, to a depth of 100 feet.

Ability to operate technical sampling equipment.

Ability to prepare and submit accurate and complete records and reports.

Ability to carry out field and laboratory assignments in accordance with standardized procedures.

NEW 6-91