The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is seeking individuals interested in becoming temporary field supervisors for the 2018 survey season to assist in the prevention and monitoring of gypsy moth throughout Washington State.

These are nonpermanent positions and will not lead to permanent employment with the state.

Duration
The pest survey field supervisor positions are temporary positions that are expected to last up to six months and begin May 1. Field supervisors typically work full time Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a one hour break for lunch

There will be a mandatory two day orientation for supervisors on May 1-2 and an additional two day orientation for trappers in late May-early June depending on geographical location. Field supervisors are required to be active participants in both sessions. Employees will be issued a state vehicle, and receive training and supplies at orientation.

Location
Western Washington: Grays Harbor, Mason, Jefferson, Clallam, Kitsap, Pierce, King, Thurston, Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom counties.

Job Description
Field supervisors will be responsible for managing a team of up to 6 insect pest trappers: hiring, training, and managing day to day activities. Each trapper will be responsible for assembling, placing, monitoring, and removing up to 1,000 insect traps within a designated area; field supervisors will be monitoring the placement and corresponding data for each trap placed by their team of trappers. A state vehicle is provided for survey duties. Field supervisors will be responsible for the safe and legal operation of their vehicles, effective placement and servicing of all traps in their area of responsibility, and maintaining good public relations. Some positions may require occasional overnight travel with travel expenses (lodging and meals) being reimbursed.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to transport up to 20 pounds by hand.
• The ability to drive for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to drive on all kinds of roads up to 300 miles per day.
• The ability to get in and out of a vehicle up to 100 times per day.
• Ability to quickly and efficiently navigate to and move to survey sites (50­100 per day) within a designated route to set, monitor, and remove traps under various weather conditions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• One year experience in research, detection, survey, control, or eradication of invasive species; or one year experience in environmental biology or natural resource management.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
• Ability to set goals and meet deadlines. Possess good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to use assigned technical equipment and programs (iOS devices, iForm, Collector for ArcGIS, Maps.Me) – training provided.
• Have a valid Washington State driver’s license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Desirable Qualifications:

• A Bachelor of Science degree involving major study in a biological science or closely related field.
• Supervisory or team lead experience.

Contact
If you have questions about the positions, contact Tiffany Pahs at tpahs@agr.wa.gov or the Pest Program hotline at (800) 443­6684.

To learn more about WSDA and Gypsy Moth Program, visit our website at
http://agr.wa.gov/gypsymoth

How do I apply?

In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:

• Letter of interest describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position

The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified and documentation may be required.

To take advantage of Veteran’s preference please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22.Please black out your social security number prior to attaching.

Applications with comments such as “see attachments” or “N/A” in the supplemental question responses will be considered incomplete.

If you are unable to apply on-line, please contact Lyndsey Beaupre, Recruiter, at (360) 902-2020 or lbeaupre@agr.wa.gov. Please include your last name and the position title in the subject line of your email.

If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855)524-5627 or email support@neogov.com.

Supplemental Information:
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.

The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.

The State of Washington actively supports diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants who need assistance in the application process or who need this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2020 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf at 800-833-6388