The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a skilled technician to maintain the critical infrastructure supporting the state’s environmental research. The agency has opened applications for an OPS Maintenance Mechanic – 77902206, a role centered at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) facilities in St. Petersburg.
This position serves as a backbone for the scientific community, ensuring that laboratories, field labs, and administrative buildings remain operational. The role is designed for a versatile tradesperson capable of pivoting between electrical repairs, plumbing, and carpentry to support a mission dedicated to the long-term well-being of Florida’s natural resources.
Based at 100 8th Ave SE in St. Petersburg, the role offers a pay range of $20 to $23 per hour. As an Other Personal Services (OPS) position, It’s classified as temporary employment, though it provides access to various state-level benefits for qualifying applicants.
The vacancy is currently open for applications, with a closing date set for May 9, 2026. Prospective candidates must be prepared for a role that demands physical stamina and a broad technical skill set, as the position is not eligible for telework.
Core Responsibilities and Technical Scope
The maintenance mechanic is tasked with the comprehensive upkeep of the FWRI campus. This involves a blend of preventative maintenance and reactive repairs across multiple disciplines. The scope of work extends from the precision of scientific furniture alterations to the heavy-duty requirements of hurricane preparedness and grounds maintenance.
Daily operations typically include the installation and repair of plumbing fixtures—such as valves, faucets, and water closets—as well as the maintenance of electrical components, including lighting fixtures and receptacles. Carpentry work is likewise a significant component, requiring the repair of doors, windows, and flooring to keep facilities secure and functional.
Beyond the physical labor, the role integrates modern facility management. The mechanic must utilize a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to track, prepare, and close out work orders. This ensures a transparent audit trail of facility health and allows the FWC to prioritize critical repairs across its St. Petersburg and field lab locations.
Specialized Requirements and Safety Standards
Given the nature of the work, safety is a primary directive. The successful candidate must adhere to strict guidelines set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). While an OSHA 10 certification is highly valued, the agency is willing to provide training within the first year of employment.
The position also requires a level of physical agility. Mechanics must be capable of performing attic work and landscaping tasks, including the safe operation of chainsaws and other power tools. A minimum lifting capacity of 40 pounds is required to handle the relocation of furniture and equipment between buildings.
| Detail | Requirement/Value |
|---|---|
| Hourly Wage | $20 – $23 per hour |
| Minimum Experience | 2 years in building/mechanical repair |
| Location | St. Petersburg, FL |
| Background Check | Level 1 and Level 2 Required |
| Closing Date | May 9, 2026 |
Qualifications and Candidate Expectations
To qualify for the role, candidates must demonstrate at least two years of experience in the maintenance and repair of buildings, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical equipment. Alternatively, the FWC accepts vocational or technical training in one of the building trades as a substitute for direct field experience.
While the role is generalist in nature, the commission has indicated a preference for candidates with specific HVAC experience. This expertise is particularly valuable given Florida’s climate and the sensitive temperature requirements often found in scientific research environments. Applicants are encouraged to explicitly detail this experience on their professional profile.
Administrative and legal requirements are also stringent. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of Level 1 and Level 2 background checks, provided at no cost to the applicant. A valid driver’s license is mandatory, as the role may require travel between the main campus and various field laboratories.
Integration with State Benefits and Logistics
Working for the State of Florida provides a structured benefit ecosystem. Eligible OPS positions may access comprehensive health coverage with biweekly premiums as low as $25.00 for single coverage and $90.00 for family plans. Other available perks include a low-cost $25,000 life insurance policy and the OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan.
The operational rhythm of the campus is steady, with office hours spanning from 7:00 A.M. To 5:30 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Employees are scheduled for eight-hour shifts within this window. The role also involves a degree of financial responsibility; the mechanic must complete courses to obtain a State PCard and master “Advance Accountability” to follow state purchasing policies.
This role is more than a series of repairs; it is a support system for the research scientists and administrative staff who manage the state’s wildlife. By coordinating with outside vendors and maintaining the physical integrity of the labs, the mechanic ensures that the FWC’s mission of managing fish and wildlife resources for the benefit of the public remains uninterrupted.
Interested individuals should ensure their resumes accurately reflect their technical skills and account for any employment gaps, as all qualifying responses must be verifiable during the screening process. For a full list of state benefits, candidates can visit the official Florida benefits portal.
The next critical milestone for this recruitment process is the application deadline of May 9, 2026, after which the commission will begin reviewing candidate profiles and conducting background screenings.
We invite readers to share this opportunity with qualified professionals in the St. Petersburg area. Please leave your thoughts or questions in the comments below.
