Closing Date: 3rd March, 2026
Description:
Our Organization:The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.
Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself. The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative, and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment. Visit our website for more information: MyFWC.com
Requirements:
- Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal history check (fingerprint-based) in accordance with Chapter 435, Florida Statutes.
- Office Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (ET) Monday through Friday.
- Valid US Driver's License
- Incumbents will have financial disclosure reporting responsibility in accordance with Section 112.3145, Florida Statutes.
- *Resume, cover letter, and writing sample (no more than 5 pages) are required.
Required Experience:
- Graduation from an accredited law school, current member of the Florida Bar and at least five years of legal experience or an equivalent mix of wildlife/environmental education or experience and legal experience.
- Little to no courtroom experience required.
Overview:
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. The commission has the authority to exercise the executive and regulatory powers over wildlife, freshwater aquatic life, and marine life through Article IV, Section 9 of the Florida Constitution, as well as statutory authorities for statewide law enforcement, boating and waterways, and invasive plant management.
The Legal Office provides a wide range of legal services to the Commission and its staff. Services include but are not limited to representing FWC in litigation, providing general legal counsel to FWC, preparing legal opinions, developing and reviewing contracts, legislation, rules, and other legal instruments.
Duties and Responsibilities:
This is a senior attorney position in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Office of General Counsel providing legal advice and representation primarily to our Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.
This position is primarily a transactional position and is not litigation.
Applicants will work on matters relating to:
- Imperiled Species conservation and management of manatees, gopher tortoises, panthers, and marine turtles.
- Non-native invasive species such as pythons, iguanas, Nile monitors, and tegus.
- Habitat conservation, restoration, and management of hardwood forests; wetlands; tidal basins, fresh and saltwater habitats, and invasive plant management.
This position is also responsible for consulting with, and advising, the Executive Director and Commission staff on matters relating to the legal requirements for program development, implementation, strategic planning, and internal management activities. Additional responsibilities include assisting staff with land management and acquisitions, drafting and reviewing easements, negotiating agreements on behalf of the Commission, assisting with state procurements and contracting, assisting staff with rulemaking and licensure actions under Chapter 120 of the Florida Statutes.
Applicants with an interest and/or experience in environmental, permitting, wildlife, imperiled species, fisheries, land use, boating, or government law preferred.
This position requires the ability to travel up to 10%.
Why should I apply?
The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
State of Florida employees enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions. State employees also enjoy the option of selecting between the FRS Pension Plan and the FRS Investment Plan for retirement. As an additional benefit, state employment affords you the opportunity to take part in the tuition waiver program within the state university and community college systems.
Health Premiums $4.17 - Single / $15.00- Family Biweekly
No Cost $25,000 Life Insurance
Nine Paid State Holidays, One Personal Holiday per year
176 hours Annual Leave and 104 hours Sick Leave accrued Annually
Retirement Plan Options
State University and College Tuition Waiver Program
On the Job Trainings
Support for family planning, including paid maternity leave, adoption benefits, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Family Supportive Work Program (FSWP), and paid leave for family and medical responsibilities for eligible employees.
Paid administrative leave for mentoring, volunteering, voting, and other reasons because we understand the importance of giving back to the community.
