Job Description

Pest surveyors will be responsible for setting insect traps and collecting plant samples.    Each trapper will be responsible for assembling, placing, monitoring, and

removing up to 1,000 insect traps within a designated area; and collecting plant samples to be submitted to the Plant Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory for disease testing.   A state vehicle is provided for survey duties. Surveyors 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. Positions require significant overnight travel with travel expenses (lodging and meals) being reimbursed.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to transport up to 40 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 survey traps /sample sites (50-100 per day) within a designated route to set, monitor, and remove traps under various weather conditions.
• Ability to twist, stoop, and bend, walk and hike up to a full shift on uneven or steep 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 cold call/visit private property owners to obtain permission to place traps and take plant samples.
• Ability to properly identify plant by common and/or botanical names with reference materials.
• 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.

Contact

If you have questions about the positions, contact Tiffany Pahs at tpahs@agr.wa.gov

or Jennifer Falacy at jfalacy@agr.wa.gov or the Pest Program hotline at (800) 443-6684.

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 HR@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.

Agricultural Technologist – Pest Survey – Gypsy Moth/Field Plant Disease Surveyor Supplemental Questionnaire