FWC seeking bear response contractors

The FWC is seeking independent contractors to assist the agency’s Bear Management Program.

Individuals will be trained to assist with various activities, including but not limited to helping residents and businesses avoid conflicts with bears, collecting information from and disposing of dead bears, and setting and monitoring bear traps. The FWC is looking for multiple contractors to help respond to human-bear conflicts in Bay, Escambia, Franklin, Gulf, Highlands, Okaloosa, Orange, Santa Rosa, Seminole, Volusia, and Walton counties.

Bear Response Contractors only assist the FWC on an ‘as needed’ basis which can vary by season, area and year. Contractors are paid per activity rather than hourly. Income from contract activities would therefore only supplement existing income sources.

Interested individuals must be willing to work flexible hours, use their own vehicle, have the ability to haul a small trailer, and secure their own general liability insurance, which may cost $300 to $1,000 per year.

People interested in becoming a contractor should send their resume, contact information, counties of interest, and three professional references to BearManagement@MyFWC.com  or FWC, Bear Management Program, 620 S Meridian St 6B, Tallahassee, FL 32399.