Description DEADLINE EXTENDED, FIRST REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS WILL BE ON APRIL 3, 2024 I Under supervision, to learn methods and procedures, make inspections, and enforce laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules, laws, and regulations; to learn and perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments; to learn methods and procedures and inspect and test weighing and measuring devices; to verify consumer transactions and product quality; and to do related work as required. II Under general direction, to make inspections and enforce laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules, laws, and regulations; to perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments; to inspect and test weighing and measuring devices; to verify consumer transactions and product quality; and to do related work as required. III Under general direction, to coordinate, oversee, and perform inspections and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules, laws, and regulations; to coordinate and perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments; to coordinate and perform inspection and testing of weighing and measuring devices and verification of consumer transactions and product quality; and to do related work as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS I This is the entry and basic working level in the Agricultural and Standards Inspector class series. Incumbents work under relatively close supervision until they gain experience and obtain the requisite State licenses to work as an experienced Agricultural Biologist/Inspector. This class is distinguished from Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II by the fact that incumbents in the Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II class perform a broader range of assignments under less guidance and supervision. II This is the first experienced working level in the Agricultural Biologist/Inspector class series. Incumbents are expected to be licensed and work in at least five of the eight fields requiring State licensing for the performance of agricultural and weights and measures inspection and enforcement work. III This is the lead and/or advanced journey level in the Agricultural Biologist/Inspector class series. Incumbents are expected to perform the complete range of the more inspection and enforcement work. They may also be responsible for an assigned area of Department programs. This class is distinguished from Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II by the performance of a wider range work and the requirement that an incumbent possess all of the inspection certificates. REPORTS TO Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer or Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED I/II This is not a supervisory class. III Provides lead direction and work coordination for Agricultural Biologist/Inspector I, II, Agricultural Aide, and Produce Inspector, as assigned. TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; ability to walk in uneven terrain and on slippery surfaces; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; ability to crawl through various areas requiring movement on hands and knees; ability to climb, stoop, crouch, and kneel; lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX. TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS Work is performed in office, outdoor, and driving environments; some assignments performed alone in remote locations; work is performed in varying temperatures; exposure to dust, pesticides, chemicals, and gases; continuous contact with staff and the public. Example of Duties (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.) I Learns methods, procedures, and policies and performs the following assignments: inspects fruits, nuts, vegetables, honey, eggs, or other agricultural commodities in markets, packing houses, and storage areas for compliance with regulations related to standards and grades Issues certificates of inspection; may order reconditioning or destruction of produce deemed to be below minimum standards Inspects nurseries for plant pests and diseases Inspects incoming plant shipments for evidence of disease, pests, or noxious weed seeds inspects transported agricultural commodities to insure that they are free from injurious insects or plant disease may inspect and insure proper pesticide application to crops; inspects apiaries examines fields, orchards, roadways, and cultivated areas to determine the location and extent of rodent, weed, bird, insect, predator, and plant disease infestations. Controls and eradicates plants, weeds, and pests; may certify or specify the treatment of agricultural products for movement or shipment Inspects seeds and seed shipments for noxious weed seeds Inspects, tests, and seals commercial weighing and measuring devices Inspects and insures proper weight, measures, counts, and labeling of packaged commodities Inspects and investigates weighmaster licenses Collects petroleum product samples for testing Investigates complaints related to consumer transactions Prepares records and reports of inspections and tests Takes appropriate enforcement actions Performs needed maintenance on equipment Provides information to growers and home-ownerS Gathers information for annual crop reports Represents the Agriculture Department in contacts with the public and other government agencies. II Inspects fruits, nuts, vegetables, honey, eggs, or other agricultural commodities in markets, packing houses, and storage areas for compliance with regulations related to standards and grades; issues certificates of inspection; may order reconditioning or destruction of produce deemed to be below minimum standards; inspects nurseries for plant pests and diseases; inspects incoming plant shipments for evidence of disease, pests, or noxious weed seeds; inspects transported agricultural commodities to insure that they are free from injurious insects or plant disease; issues pesticide permits and may inspect pesticide application to crops; inspects apiaries; examines fields, orchards, roadways, and cultivated areas to determine the location and extent of rodent, weed, bird, insect, predator, and plant disease infestations; controls and eradicates plants, weeds, rodents, birds, and other pests; may certify or specify the treatment of agricultural products as a condition of movement or shipment; inspects seeds and seed shipments for noxious weed seeds; inspects, tests, and seals commercial weighing and measuring devices; weighs, measures, and counts the contents of packaged commodities to verify the accuracy of labels; inspects and investigates weighmaster licenses; collects petroleum product samples for testing to insure stated qualities; investigates complaints related to consumer transactions; prepares records and reports of inspections and tests conducted; takes appropriate enforcement actions; performs needed maintenance on equipment; provides information to growers and home-owners regarding pest problems; gathers information for annual crop reports; represents the Agriculture Department in contacts with the public and other government agencies. III Plans and coordinates a variety of inspection, enforcement, and control work, including quarantine inspection, pesticide use enforcement, rodent, weed, and bird control, nursery and apiary inspection, and weights and measures enforcement and inspection; may coordinate assigned areas of responsibility with other County departments and government agencies; assists with the development and implementation of Agriculture Department goals, objectives, policies, and priorities; priorities; may provide training and guidance for other Department staff; performs the full scope of agricultural and weights and measures inspection and enforcement duties; prepares a variety of inspection reports in compliance with Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and standards; investigates a variety of complaints, including those related to packaging and labeling fraud; enforces pesticide use regulations; may conduct hearings and examinations as delegated by Department management; assists the public with pest control problems and issues restricted materials permits; gathers data and prepares a variety of reports; inspects, tests, and seals commercial weighing and measuring devices, including liquid measurement equipment; verifies the weight, measurement, contents, and labeling of packaged items; reviews and verifies weighmaster certificates and records of weight certificates; tests electric meters; collects commodity samples for testing; files formal complaints; represents the Department with the public, community organizations, and other agencies. Minimum Qualifications Any combination of training and experience which would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: I Completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics in accordance with State of California licensing requirements. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of at least two valid licenses issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, one of which must be either: 1. Pesticide Regulation 2. Pest Prevention and Plant Regulation 3. Weight Verification An incumbent may be appointed without the required licenses, but the appointment will be on a provisional basis, pending acquisition of the required licenses. Failure to obtain one of the licenses within twelve months of appointment may result in termination. II At least two years of inspection and enforcement experience comparable to that of an Agricultural Biologist/Inspector I with San Benito County. Completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics in accordance with State of California licensing requirements. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of at least five valid licenses issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, three which must be: 1. Pesticide Regulation 2. Pest Prevention and Plant Regulation 3. Weight Verification The two remaining licenses may be any combination of the following: 1. Investigation and Environmental Monitoring 2. Integrated Pest Management 3. Commodity Regulation 4. Measurement Verification 5. Transaction and Product Verification III At least two years of inspection and enforcement experience comparable to that of an Agricultural Biologist Inspector II with San Benito County. Completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics in accordance with State of California licensing requirements. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of all eight valid licenses related agricultural, weights, measures, and commodity inspections issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Knowledge Of/Ability To Knowledge of: I Basic knowledge of the functions and responsibilities of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Basic knowledge of agricultural practices and crops pertinent to the County of San Benito. Basic knowledge of pest and noxious weed control methods. II Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations related to the functions of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Enforcement powers, procedures, and policies of the Agriculture Department. Proper inspection methods and procedures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Agricultural practices and crops pertinent to the County of San Benito. Pest and noxious weed control methods. III Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations related to the functions of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Enforcement powers, procedures, and policies of the Agriculture Department. Proper inspection methods and procedures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Agricultural practices and crops pertinent to the County of San Benito. Pest and noxious weed control methods. Principles of program development, implementation, and coordination. Ability to: I Learn and perform agricultural and weights and measures inspection and enforcement work. Learn, use, and apply a variety of inspection methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply Federal, State, and local rules and regulations, relating to agricultural and weights and measures standards. Gather and maintain information related to County crops. Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the functions and policies of the County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer in a courteous and professional manner. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. II Perform a wide range of agricultural and weights and measures enforcement and inspection assignments. Use and apply a variety of inspection methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply Federal, State, and local rules and regulations, relating to agricultural and weights and measures standards. Gather and maintain information related to County crops. Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Provide advice on acceptable agricultural and weights and measures practices. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the functions and policies of the County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer in a courteous and professional manner. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. III Plan, develop, coordinate and be responsible for assigned inspection and enforcement areas in the Agriculture Department. Perform a wide range of complex agricultural and weights and measures enforcement and inspection work, using a variety of methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply Federal, State, and local rules and regulations, relating to agricultural and weights and measures standards. Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Provide advice on acceptable agricultural and weights and measures practices. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Gather a variety of information and prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the functions and policies of the County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer in a courteous and professional manner. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all County of San Benito employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath. SAN BENITO COUNTY BENEFITS Employees in regular, full-time positions will be eligible to participate in the following employee benefits: Pay Day: Employees are paid bi-weekly. Insurance Deductions: The insurance and benefits deductions will take place bi-monthly, normally the first two pay periods of the month. Bank/Credit union and 457 Retirement Deferrals deductions will take place bi-weekly. Vacation: Based on continued years of service. Maximum accruals may apply depending on the bargaining unit. 5 to 9 years of service = 15 days per year 10 to 14 years of service = 18 days per year 15 + years of service = 20 days per year Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating) for most employees. Sick Leave: 15 days per year. Maximum accruals apply. Health Plan: Comprehensive medical and dental plans available for full-time employees. Employees appointed to a regular position at a time base of 50% or higher are also eligible to participate. Vision Plan: MES Vision Plan offered which offers exams, frames and lenses on a 12-24-24 basis. The County pays for employee coverage and the employee can pay for dependent coverage. This benefit is available to FULL-TIME employees only. Employee Assistance Program: The County provides confidential short-term counseling services to employees and dependents. Any regular employee is eligible for up to a total of three (3) hours of counseling sessions within any six (6) month period per County employee. Up to a maximum of six (6) sessions per calendar year are allowed per family Life Insurance/AD&D: County pays for a $20,000 BASIC life insurance policy for each employee. Two other VOLUNTARY life insurance plans available, including AD&D. Disability Insurance: General, Confidential and Management groups participate in the State Disability Insurance. Credit Union: Membership to the Santa Clara Federal Credit Union is available to San Benito County employees. Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in tax-deferred retirement savings. Three 457 plans are available. Employees may rollover funds from prior 401k or 457 accounts. IRS limits apply. Retirement: Regular employees will be enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system in accordance with the Public Employees' Retirement Law. Employee contributions vary according to bargaining unit. All New Miscellaneous (non-Safety) employees enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system participate in the full formula of 2% at 62. Miscellaneous employees participate in Social Security in addition to CalPERS. New Safety employees are covered by the safety full formula 2.7% at 57. Safety employees contribute 9% of the employee contribution. Safety employees do not participate in Social Security. Supplemental Insurance: Employees may participate in various AFLAC plans such as accident, disability, and cancer insurances. Additionaly, employees can enroll into a pre-tax cafeteria plan and flexible spending accounts including Unreimbursed Medical ($2500) and Dependent Care ($5000). Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Retirement Formula Local MISC 2% @ 62 for New PERS Members Social Security (non-safety) Vacation Based on Continued Years of Service Sick Leave 15 Days Annually Floating Holiday 457 Deferred Compensation Credit Union Flexible Spending Account Employee Assistance Program Group Life Insurance Additional Optional Life Insurances & AD&D Tuition Reimbursement 01 Please be sure to answer the supplemental questions thoroughly and accurately. Applicants are responsible for clearly, completely, and accurately identifying their qualifications. Your responses to the questions must be supported by both the work experience listed on your application as well as your resume. The rating of the supplemental questions may determine your application status and/or rank on the eligible list. I have read and understand the statement above concerning submission of supplemental questionnaire responses. Yes No 02 Please indicate which licenses you are currently in possession of below. (Note that they must be valid and issued by the California Department of Agriculture.) Pesticide Regulation Pest Prevention & Plant Regulation Weight Verification Investigation & Environmental Monitoring Integrated Pest Management Commodity Regulation Measurement Verification Transaction & Product Verification None of the Above All of the Above 03 Have you completed advanced educational training in biological and/or agricultural sciences? Yes No 04 How many years of experience do you have in inspection and enforcement comparable to that of an Agricultural Biologist/Inspector with San Benito County? Under 2 years 2 to 4 years 5 or more years None 05 Do you have previous experience working in a county agricultural department? Yes No 06 How much experience have you had preparing concise reports in your previous roles? A good deal of experience Very little experience No experience 07 How much experience do you have outdoors conducting field work? A good deal of experience Very little experience No experience Required Question Closing Date/Time: 5/3/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Mar 21, 2024
Full Time
Description DEADLINE EXTENDED, FIRST REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS WILL BE ON APRIL 3, 2024 I Under supervision, to learn methods and procedures, make inspections, and enforce laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules, laws, and regulations; to learn and perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments; to learn methods and procedures and inspect and test weighing and measuring devices; to verify consumer transactions and product quality; and to do related work as required. II Under general direction, to make inspections and enforce laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules, laws, and regulations; to perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments; to inspect and test weighing and measuring devices; to verify consumer transactions and product quality; and to do related work as required. III Under general direction, to coordinate, oversee, and perform inspections and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules, laws, and regulations; to coordinate and perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments; to coordinate and perform inspection and testing of weighing and measuring devices and verification of consumer transactions and product quality; and to do related work as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS I This is the entry and basic working level in the Agricultural and Standards Inspector class series. Incumbents work under relatively close supervision until they gain experience and obtain the requisite State licenses to work as an experienced Agricultural Biologist/Inspector. This class is distinguished from Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II by the fact that incumbents in the Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II class perform a broader range of assignments under less guidance and supervision. II This is the first experienced working level in the Agricultural Biologist/Inspector class series. Incumbents are expected to be licensed and work in at least five of the eight fields requiring State licensing for the performance of agricultural and weights and measures inspection and enforcement work. III This is the lead and/or advanced journey level in the Agricultural Biologist/Inspector class series. Incumbents are expected to perform the complete range of the more inspection and enforcement work. They may also be responsible for an assigned area of Department programs. This class is distinguished from Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II by the performance of a wider range work and the requirement that an incumbent possess all of the inspection certificates. REPORTS TO Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer or Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED I/II This is not a supervisory class. III Provides lead direction and work coordination for Agricultural Biologist/Inspector I, II, Agricultural Aide, and Produce Inspector, as assigned. TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; ability to walk in uneven terrain and on slippery surfaces; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; ability to crawl through various areas requiring movement on hands and knees; ability to climb, stoop, crouch, and kneel; lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX. TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS Work is performed in office, outdoor, and driving environments; some assignments performed alone in remote locations; work is performed in varying temperatures; exposure to dust, pesticides, chemicals, and gases; continuous contact with staff and the public. Example of Duties (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.) I Learns methods, procedures, and policies and performs the following assignments: inspects fruits, nuts, vegetables, honey, eggs, or other agricultural commodities in markets, packing houses, and storage areas for compliance with regulations related to standards and grades Issues certificates of inspection; may order reconditioning or destruction of produce deemed to be below minimum standards Inspects nurseries for plant pests and diseases Inspects incoming plant shipments for evidence of disease, pests, or noxious weed seeds inspects transported agricultural commodities to insure that they are free from injurious insects or plant disease may inspect and insure proper pesticide application to crops; inspects apiaries examines fields, orchards, roadways, and cultivated areas to determine the location and extent of rodent, weed, bird, insect, predator, and plant disease infestations. Controls and eradicates plants, weeds, and pests; may certify or specify the treatment of agricultural products for movement or shipment Inspects seeds and seed shipments for noxious weed seeds Inspects, tests, and seals commercial weighing and measuring devices Inspects and insures proper weight, measures, counts, and labeling of packaged commodities Inspects and investigates weighmaster licenses Collects petroleum product samples for testing Investigates complaints related to consumer transactions Prepares records and reports of inspections and tests Takes appropriate enforcement actions Performs needed maintenance on equipment Provides information to growers and home-ownerS Gathers information for annual crop reports Represents the Agriculture Department in contacts with the public and other government agencies. II Inspects fruits, nuts, vegetables, honey, eggs, or other agricultural commodities in markets, packing houses, and storage areas for compliance with regulations related to standards and grades; issues certificates of inspection; may order reconditioning or destruction of produce deemed to be below minimum standards; inspects nurseries for plant pests and diseases; inspects incoming plant shipments for evidence of disease, pests, or noxious weed seeds; inspects transported agricultural commodities to insure that they are free from injurious insects or plant disease; issues pesticide permits and may inspect pesticide application to crops; inspects apiaries; examines fields, orchards, roadways, and cultivated areas to determine the location and extent of rodent, weed, bird, insect, predator, and plant disease infestations; controls and eradicates plants, weeds, rodents, birds, and other pests; may certify or specify the treatment of agricultural products as a condition of movement or shipment; inspects seeds and seed shipments for noxious weed seeds; inspects, tests, and seals commercial weighing and measuring devices; weighs, measures, and counts the contents of packaged commodities to verify the accuracy of labels; inspects and investigates weighmaster licenses; collects petroleum product samples for testing to insure stated qualities; investigates complaints related to consumer transactions; prepares records and reports of inspections and tests conducted; takes appropriate enforcement actions; performs needed maintenance on equipment; provides information to growers and home-owners regarding pest problems; gathers information for annual crop reports; represents the Agriculture Department in contacts with the public and other government agencies. III Plans and coordinates a variety of inspection, enforcement, and control work, including quarantine inspection, pesticide use enforcement, rodent, weed, and bird control, nursery and apiary inspection, and weights and measures enforcement and inspection; may coordinate assigned areas of responsibility with other County departments and government agencies; assists with the development and implementation of Agriculture Department goals, objectives, policies, and priorities; priorities; may provide training and guidance for other Department staff; performs the full scope of agricultural and weights and measures inspection and enforcement duties; prepares a variety of inspection reports in compliance with Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and standards; investigates a variety of complaints, including those related to packaging and labeling fraud; enforces pesticide use regulations; may conduct hearings and examinations as delegated by Department management; assists the public with pest control problems and issues restricted materials permits; gathers data and prepares a variety of reports; inspects, tests, and seals commercial weighing and measuring devices, including liquid measurement equipment; verifies the weight, measurement, contents, and labeling of packaged items; reviews and verifies weighmaster certificates and records of weight certificates; tests electric meters; collects commodity samples for testing; files formal complaints; represents the Department with the public, community organizations, and other agencies. Minimum Qualifications Any combination of training and experience which would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: I Completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics in accordance with State of California licensing requirements. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of at least two valid licenses issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, one of which must be either: 1. Pesticide Regulation 2. Pest Prevention and Plant Regulation 3. Weight Verification An incumbent may be appointed without the required licenses, but the appointment will be on a provisional basis, pending acquisition of the required licenses. Failure to obtain one of the licenses within twelve months of appointment may result in termination. II At least two years of inspection and enforcement experience comparable to that of an Agricultural Biologist/Inspector I with San Benito County. Completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics in accordance with State of California licensing requirements. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of at least five valid licenses issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, three which must be: 1. Pesticide Regulation 2. Pest Prevention and Plant Regulation 3. Weight Verification The two remaining licenses may be any combination of the following: 1. Investigation and Environmental Monitoring 2. Integrated Pest Management 3. Commodity Regulation 4. Measurement Verification 5. Transaction and Product Verification III At least two years of inspection and enforcement experience comparable to that of an Agricultural Biologist Inspector II with San Benito County. Completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics in accordance with State of California licensing requirements. Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of all eight valid licenses related agricultural, weights, measures, and commodity inspections issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Knowledge Of/Ability To Knowledge of: I Basic knowledge of the functions and responsibilities of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Basic knowledge of agricultural practices and crops pertinent to the County of San Benito. Basic knowledge of pest and noxious weed control methods. II Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations related to the functions of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Enforcement powers, procedures, and policies of the Agriculture Department. Proper inspection methods and procedures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Agricultural practices and crops pertinent to the County of San Benito. Pest and noxious weed control methods. III Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations related to the functions of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Enforcement powers, procedures, and policies of the Agriculture Department. Proper inspection methods and procedures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Agricultural practices and crops pertinent to the County of San Benito. Pest and noxious weed control methods. Principles of program development, implementation, and coordination. Ability to: I Learn and perform agricultural and weights and measures inspection and enforcement work. Learn, use, and apply a variety of inspection methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply Federal, State, and local rules and regulations, relating to agricultural and weights and measures standards. Gather and maintain information related to County crops. Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the functions and policies of the County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer in a courteous and professional manner. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. II Perform a wide range of agricultural and weights and measures enforcement and inspection assignments. Use and apply a variety of inspection methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply Federal, State, and local rules and regulations, relating to agricultural and weights and measures standards. Gather and maintain information related to County crops. Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Provide advice on acceptable agricultural and weights and measures practices. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the functions and policies of the County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer in a courteous and professional manner. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. III Plan, develop, coordinate and be responsible for assigned inspection and enforcement areas in the Agriculture Department. Perform a wide range of complex agricultural and weights and measures enforcement and inspection work, using a variety of methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply Federal, State, and local rules and regulations, relating to agricultural and weights and measures standards. Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Provide advice on acceptable agricultural and weights and measures practices. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Gather a variety of information and prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the functions and policies of the County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer in a courteous and professional manner. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all County of San Benito employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath. SAN BENITO COUNTY BENEFITS Employees in regular, full-time positions will be eligible to participate in the following employee benefits: Pay Day: Employees are paid bi-weekly. Insurance Deductions: The insurance and benefits deductions will take place bi-monthly, normally the first two pay periods of the month. Bank/Credit union and 457 Retirement Deferrals deductions will take place bi-weekly. Vacation: Based on continued years of service. Maximum accruals may apply depending on the bargaining unit. 5 to 9 years of service = 15 days per year 10 to 14 years of service = 18 days per year 15 + years of service = 20 days per year Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating) for most employees. Sick Leave: 15 days per year. Maximum accruals apply. Health Plan: Comprehensive medical and dental plans available for full-time employees. Employees appointed to a regular position at a time base of 50% or higher are also eligible to participate. Vision Plan: MES Vision Plan offered which offers exams, frames and lenses on a 12-24-24 basis. The County pays for employee coverage and the employee can pay for dependent coverage. This benefit is available to FULL-TIME employees only. Employee Assistance Program: The County provides confidential short-term counseling services to employees and dependents. Any regular employee is eligible for up to a total of three (3) hours of counseling sessions within any six (6) month period per County employee. Up to a maximum of six (6) sessions per calendar year are allowed per family Life Insurance/AD&D: County pays for a $20,000 BASIC life insurance policy for each employee. Two other VOLUNTARY life insurance plans available, including AD&D. Disability Insurance: General, Confidential and Management groups participate in the State Disability Insurance. Credit Union: Membership to the Santa Clara Federal Credit Union is available to San Benito County employees. Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in tax-deferred retirement savings. Three 457 plans are available. Employees may rollover funds from prior 401k or 457 accounts. IRS limits apply. Retirement: Regular employees will be enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system in accordance with the Public Employees' Retirement Law. Employee contributions vary according to bargaining unit. All New Miscellaneous (non-Safety) employees enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system participate in the full formula of 2% at 62. Miscellaneous employees participate in Social Security in addition to CalPERS. New Safety employees are covered by the safety full formula 2.7% at 57. Safety employees contribute 9% of the employee contribution. Safety employees do not participate in Social Security. Supplemental Insurance: Employees may participate in various AFLAC plans such as accident, disability, and cancer insurances. Additionaly, employees can enroll into a pre-tax cafeteria plan and flexible spending accounts including Unreimbursed Medical ($2500) and Dependent Care ($5000). Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Retirement Formula Local MISC 2% @ 62 for New PERS Members Social Security (non-safety) Vacation Based on Continued Years of Service Sick Leave 15 Days Annually Floating Holiday 457 Deferred Compensation Credit Union Flexible Spending Account Employee Assistance Program Group Life Insurance Additional Optional Life Insurances & AD&D Tuition Reimbursement 01 Please be sure to answer the supplemental questions thoroughly and accurately. Applicants are responsible for clearly, completely, and accurately identifying their qualifications. Your responses to the questions must be supported by both the work experience listed on your application as well as your resume. The rating of the supplemental questions may determine your application status and/or rank on the eligible list. I have read and understand the statement above concerning submission of supplemental questionnaire responses. Yes No 02 Please indicate which licenses you are currently in possession of below. (Note that they must be valid and issued by the California Department of Agriculture.) Pesticide Regulation Pest Prevention & Plant Regulation Weight Verification Investigation & Environmental Monitoring Integrated Pest Management Commodity Regulation Measurement Verification Transaction & Product Verification None of the Above All of the Above 03 Have you completed advanced educational training in biological and/or agricultural sciences? Yes No 04 How many years of experience do you have in inspection and enforcement comparable to that of an Agricultural Biologist/Inspector with San Benito County? Under 2 years 2 to 4 years 5 or more years None 05 Do you have previous experience working in a county agricultural department? Yes No 06 How much experience have you had preparing concise reports in your previous roles? A good deal of experience Very little experience No experience 07 How much experience do you have outdoors conducting field work? A good deal of experience Very little experience No experience Required Question Closing Date/Time: 5/3/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Sacramento County, CA
Sacramento, California, United States
The Position Come join one of Forbes Magazine's Best Employers! This is a limited continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 3/20/2024, 4/10/2024 (Final) Positions in this class perform a variety of biological, toxicological, and bacteriological laboratory tests associated with water quality and wastewater treatment plant systems, and acts as staff specialist regarding water quality and water pollution investigations. Examples of Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of Principles of biological, toxicological, physical, and chemical techniques relating to biological testing. Principals of water quality biological and its application to environmental problems. Classification, physical and physiological characteristics, ecology, development, and habits of plants and organisms associated with wastewater and aquatic habitats. Statistical methods and their application to water quality research problems. Environmental laboratory methods and procedures. Use and care of laboratory equipment. Sampling and testing procedures. General operation and use of computers, automated equipment and application software used for laboratory work. Acceptable safety standards in laboratory work and safe work practices. Basic biological, toxicological, bacteriological, and bio-chemical analysis research techniques and methods. Purpose, use and operation of standard laboratory equipment. Ability to Perform biological, bacteriological, and bio-chemical analyses and make recommendations based on findings. Analyze, interpret, and report the results of laboratory testing. Keep records and prepare accurate reports of laboratory activities. Establish and maintain cooperative professional working relationships with others. Read, write, and speak English at a level necessary for satisfactory job performance. Operate motor vehicles and motor driven boats. Operate personal computer for work processing, spreadsheets, statistical, graphics applications, and standard applications laboratory software. Act as expert witness when required. Develop laboratory procedures to meet specific needs. Learn, interpret and apply to specific cases provisions of laws, rules or regulations encountered in the work. Work weekends, shift and holiday schedules. Perform complex and standard biological, toxicological, bacteriological, and bio-chemical analysis, testing and research. Maintain a variety of test and research records. Employment Qualifications Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Biological Science, Biochemistry, or a closely related field. AND Two years of general environmental laboratory experience in biological, toxicological, biochemical, and/or bacteriological analysis. A master's degree in the above educational fields may be substituted for one year of the required experience. Note: If the word “experience” is referenced in the minimum qualifications, it means full-time paid experience unless the minimum qualification states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements. Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application. Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click here or speak to someone in our office before the cut-off date listed in this notice. General Requirements Physical Requirements: Must be able to use hands to hold, shake, twist laboratory equipment during analysis. Distinguish visually colors, shapes, sizes, and numbers, and distinguish visually measurements as small as millimeter and a milliliter. Some positions in this series require the ability to climb a ladder, enter and exit a boat, and walk on sloped ground such as river levees carrying a variety of laboratory equipment or samples. The use of contact lenses is prohibited. License Requirements: Possession of a valid California Driver's License, Class C or higher, is required at the time of appointment. Failure to maintain the appropriate valid California Driver's License may constitute cause for termination from the class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Probationary Period The probationary period for this classification is six (6) months. Application and Testing Information APPLICATION Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit an online County of Sacramento employment application by 5:00 PM on the posted cut-off date. Click here to apply. County of Sacramento Department of Personnel Services Employment Services Division 700 H Street, Room 4667 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone (916) 874-5593; 7-1-1 California Relay Service Email EmployOffice@Saccounty.net Inter-Office Mail Code: 09-4667 www.SacCountyJobs.net Employment applications and all documentation requested in this announcement must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Your application should highlight all relevant education, training, and experience, and clearly indicate how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position as of the cut-off date. Application information must be current, concise and related to the requirements in this job announcement. You may only apply for this recruitment once. Duplicate and incomplete applications will be disqualified. A resume may be included with your application, however it will not substitute for the information requested on the application. SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE Applicants are required to provide a full and complete response to each supplemental question. The Supplemental Questionnaire is located in the tab marked "Supplemental Questions". Please be descriptive in your response. Note: Responses of "See Resume" or "See Application", or copy and paste of work experience are not qualifying responses and will not be considered. Supplemental Questionnaires must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. The supplemental questions are designed to elicit specific information regarding a candidate's experience, education, and training. Responses should be consistent with the information on your application and are subject to verification. Please provide place of employment, pertinent dates, and concise, descriptive and detailed information for each question. If a job included responsibilities applicable to several questions, separate the different functions of the job to answer all the questions completely. Resumes or referral to the application or other questionnaire responses will not be accepted in lieu of completing each question. If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question. For many individuals, it is more efficient to develop responses to the supplemental questions in a word processing document and then paste them into the final document to be submitted. Changes or corrections to your Supplemental Questionnaire cannot be made once your application packet has been submitted. If the Supplemental Questionnaire is used in the Formula Rate exam, failure to complete all of the questions or incomplete responses will result in a lower score. While scoring the Supplemental Questionnaire, the candidate's application and/or attachments will not be reviewed , therefore, a candidate's responses to the questions should be accurate, thorough, detailed, and complete. FORMULA RATE EXAMINATION (Weighted 100%) All candidates meeting the minimum qualifications by the cut-off date will have their Supplemental Questionnaire scored in the Formula Rate Examination. This examination will evaluate the relevance, level, recency, progression and quality of candidate's education, training and experience. The candidate's application or other materials will not be included in this examination. Therefore, the candidate's responses to the supplemental questionnaire should be thorough, detailed and complete. The score from the Formula Rate Examination will determine the ranking on the eligible/employment list for this job. All candidates competing in the testing process will receive written notice of their examination results by email. Notices can also be accessed in their governmentjobs.com inbox. Applicants achieving a passing score will be placed on the eligible list in rank order. The rank is determined by the test score attained from the examination. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Click here for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) For information regarding County jobs: www.saccountyjobs.net EMPLOYEE BENEFITS As an employee of the County of Sacramento, there will be a variety of benefits available to you. These benefits currently include: health, dental and life insurance; flexible spending account options for dependent care and unreimbursed dental and/or medical cost; and an employee assistance program (EAP). GENERAL BENEFITS: Most employee benefits are similar to the following for all County employees. However, some benefits differ, depending on the employee representation unit to which the employee's job classification is assigned. Information about the exact benefits applicable to a particular job classification may be obtained from the Sacramento County Department of Benefits or by visiting www.saccountyjobs.net. TEMPORARY POSITIONS: Most benefits do not apply to temporary positions. The explanations of benefits applies to employees in regular positions. SALARY STEP INCREASES: The beginning salary and the top of the salary range are usually shown on the job announcement. Upon satisfactory service, salary increases of approximately 5% are given annually until the top of the salary range has been attained. PAY: All employees are paid bi-weekly via direct deposit into the employee's bank account. The pay period covers fourteen (14) calendar days, starting on a Sunday and ending on the second Saturday thereafter. Salaries are generally paid on the Friday following the end of the pay period. Employees can set up their direct deposit and access their pay information via Employee Self Service in MySacCounty. VACATION: Generally, vacation with pay begins at 10 days annually. With increase over a period of years, the maximum annual vacation with pay is 25 days. HOLIDAYS: 14.5 holidays per year as recognized. SICK LEAVE: Equivalent to 15 days annually, unlimited accumulation. Upon retirement, unused sick leave is converted to retirement service credit. PARENTAL LEAVE: Entitles a regular County employee, with at least one year of continuous employment, to schedule a paid parental leave of up to 160 hours upon the birth or during the process of an adoption of a minor child. Parental leave shall be approved by the employee's appointing authority, except where the granting of the parental leave request would unduly interfere with or cause severe hardship upon department operations. TUITION REIMBURSEMENT: Dependent upon union agreements, regular County employees may be eligible to receive Tuition Reimbursement. The costs for course tuition/registration fees and required books/supplies are eligible for reimbursement. Tuition reimbursement amounts may vary depending upon union agreement. RETIREMENT: Social Security and Sacramento County Employees' Retirement System coverage. HEALTH INSURANCE: The County offers a variety of health plan design options to fit individual needs. DENTAL INSURANCE: The County provides a comprehensive dental benefit program for regular full-time and part-time employees and their eligible dependents. This plan pays on a set fee schedule that varies by procedure. Any amount over the fee schedule is the employee's responsibility. The yearly maximum is $2,000 per person, not including orthodontia. The orthodontic benefit is 50% of covered charges with a lifetime maximum of $1,000 per person. LIFE INSURANCE: The County of Sacramento provides a basic life insurance benefit of $15,000 to all eligible employees at no cost. Additional coverage may be purchased through payroll deduction. DEFERRED COMPENSATION: The County offers a Deferred Compensation Program which enables employees to save in a systematic way without paying income tax on either the payroll deduction or the earned interest, prior to withdrawal. EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: The County of Sacramento provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their eligible dependents. The EAP offers confidential, professional counseling services in areas such as: Legal Advice/Difficult Decisions Marriage or Family Relationships Financial or Credit Worries/Elder Care Alcohol and Drug Abuse WELLNESS INCENTIVE PROGRAM: The County will recognize and award time off to eligible employees who maintain an excellent attendance record. FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT: The County offers regular employees two separate Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA's). These accounts allow employees to set money aside, on a pre-tax basis via payroll deduction, to pay for medical, dental or dependent care expenses. DEPENDENT CARE REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT: Employees may set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified childcare or dependent care expenses that are necessary for the employee and/or spouse to continue working. MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT: The Medical Reimbursement Account allows pre-tax dollars to be set aside to pay for out-of-pocket expenses that are not paid by insurance or reimbursed by any other benefit plan. WORKERS' COMPENSATION: In case of injury while on the job, each employee is protected under the Workers' Compensation laws of California. SACRAMENTO CREDIT UNION: The credit union offers loan facilities and systematic saving plans through payroll deduction. SELECTION AND PLACEMENT Sacramento County encourages applications from all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, gender, disability, political affiliation, or age. Certain age limits may be required by law, ordinance, or Civil Service direction for specific classifications such as those identified with hazardous occupations. FOR APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES ONLY: Every effort is made to provide reasonable accommodations to disabled applicants such as in the selection of test sites, aides, or other equipment which permits the disabled applicants to compete in the examination process. Applicants with disabilities requesting an applicable ADA testing accommodation must complete a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form filled out and signed by the applicant and their doctor. This form must be submitted to the Disability Compliance Office, 700 H Street, Room 5720, Sacramento, CA 95814, by the cut-off date or final filing date as listed in this job announcement. Download the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form by clicking here or contact by mail or in person the Sacramento County Employment Services Division or Disability Compliance Office. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Please read carefully the "Minimum Qualifications" section of your announcement. You must meet those qualifications by the application deadline date unless otherwise specified. Your application must clearly show you meet the minimum qualifications by the application deadline date, or it will not be accepted. All statements are subject to verification. "Experience" means full-time paid experience unless the announcement states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements. PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATIONS: If the announcement indicates the examination is given on a promotional basis, candidates must hold permanent status in Sacramento County Civil Service by the application deadline date and must meet the minimum qualifications. OPEN EXAMINATIONS: Any person who meets the minimum qualifications may apply. CONTINUOUS FILING EXAMINATIONS: Applicants are eligible to reapply to and retake a continuous filing exam after 6 months from the date the previous exam results was received. ELIGIBLE LISTS: Names of qualified persons who made a passing score on an examination are entered, in order of their final grades, on an eligible list. To fill each vacancy, the hiring department will make a selection from among the top three ranks on the employment lists. EXAMINATION RATINGS: Unless otherwise stated on the announcement: To be successful, candidates must obtain a rating of at least 70% on each part of the examination. This may be an adjusted score or an arithmetic 70% of the total possible score as determined by the Director. APPEAL PROCESS: Persons who believe their applications have been improperly rejected may request the Employment Services Division to review its decision to reject the application. If the applicant desires to submit additional proof of qualifications, such proof must be received by Personnel Services not less than two (2) calendar days prior to the scheduled date for the examination. Persons who are disqualified in any phase of the examination may appeal such adverse action, in writing, to the Civil Service Commission, 700 H Street, Room 2640, Sacramento, CA 95814, telephone: (916) 874-5586 . Such appeals must be filed within thirty (30) calendar days after notice of the adverse action was mailed to the candidate. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs): https://personnel.saccounty.net/Pages/EmploymentServicesFAQs.aspx OTHER INFORMATION VETERAN'S PREFERENCE: Military veterans who have served during wartime shall be given preference in initial appointment to County service. Such preference shall apply, provided the veteran has first achieved a minimum passing score in the examination. The passing score of a veteran shall be annotated to indicate the veteran's score shall be regarded as 5 points or higher, OR 10 points higher for disabled veterans, only for the purpose of determining the three ranks along with which the veteran's name shall be certified. No score shall actually be changed and no new rank shall be created as a result of application of veteran's preference for certification purposes. "Disabled Veteran" means any veteran who has served during wartime and, who, as of the final filing date for an examination is declared by the United States Veterans Administration or military service department to be 10% or more disabled as a result of his/her military service. Persons claiming eligibility for disabled veteran's preference must submit to the employment office, on or before the application deadline date, a certification from the United States Veterans Administration or a military service department, dated within 1 year, which certifies the present existence of a service related disability of 10% or more, or other acceptable proof of such disability as a result of his/her military service. Persons claiming eligibility for veterans preference must submit a copy of Form DD 214 or other acceptable proof of veteran's status on or before the final filing date for the examination. For purpose of this rule "reserve" status does not constitute active duty. CITIZENSHIP OR AUTHORIZED ALIEN REQUIREMENT: As required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all County employees must be United States citizens or aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Proof of citizenship or authorized status will be required prior to appointment. CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE: Some County Civil Service positions are covered by financial disclosure requirements intended to identify potential conflicts of interest. CONCURRENT EMPLOYMENT: No employee may concurrently occupy more than one County position. SPECIAL SKILL QUALIFICATIONS (WHEN SPECIFIED ON THE APPLICATION): Persons who have special skills required by some (but not all) positions in a class may be certified ahead of others provided that: Such special skills are based on the duties and requirements of the positions and are in conformance with merit system and equal opportunity principles, and The certification of eligibles who possess special skills have been approved by the Civil Service Commission. PRE-EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL EXAMINATION & DRUG TESTING: The County of Sacramento is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol free workplace. All persons selected for appointment to positions must pass a medical examination and a drug test, administered by the County at no cost to the applicant. DRIVER LICENSE: Possession of a valid California Driver License may be required for some positions. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Regular positions are subject to a probationary period which is an extension of the selection process. Unless otherwise indicated on the announcement, the probationary period is six (6) months. AGENCY SHOP/FAIR SHARE FEE: Some positions require, as a condition of continued employment, that the person either: 1. Become a union member; 2. Pay a fair share fee to the union; or, 3. Meet specific requirements under which an equivalent amount must be paid to a charity. FINGERPRINTING AND CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS: Fingerprinting and criminal record checks are required for some positions. Closing Date/Time: 4/10/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Mar 07, 2024
The Position Come join one of Forbes Magazine's Best Employers! This is a limited continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 3/20/2024, 4/10/2024 (Final) Positions in this class perform a variety of biological, toxicological, and bacteriological laboratory tests associated with water quality and wastewater treatment plant systems, and acts as staff specialist regarding water quality and water pollution investigations. Examples of Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of Principles of biological, toxicological, physical, and chemical techniques relating to biological testing. Principals of water quality biological and its application to environmental problems. Classification, physical and physiological characteristics, ecology, development, and habits of plants and organisms associated with wastewater and aquatic habitats. Statistical methods and their application to water quality research problems. Environmental laboratory methods and procedures. Use and care of laboratory equipment. Sampling and testing procedures. General operation and use of computers, automated equipment and application software used for laboratory work. Acceptable safety standards in laboratory work and safe work practices. Basic biological, toxicological, bacteriological, and bio-chemical analysis research techniques and methods. Purpose, use and operation of standard laboratory equipment. Ability to Perform biological, bacteriological, and bio-chemical analyses and make recommendations based on findings. Analyze, interpret, and report the results of laboratory testing. Keep records and prepare accurate reports of laboratory activities. Establish and maintain cooperative professional working relationships with others. Read, write, and speak English at a level necessary for satisfactory job performance. Operate motor vehicles and motor driven boats. Operate personal computer for work processing, spreadsheets, statistical, graphics applications, and standard applications laboratory software. Act as expert witness when required. Develop laboratory procedures to meet specific needs. Learn, interpret and apply to specific cases provisions of laws, rules or regulations encountered in the work. Work weekends, shift and holiday schedules. Perform complex and standard biological, toxicological, bacteriological, and bio-chemical analysis, testing and research. Maintain a variety of test and research records. Employment Qualifications Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Biological Science, Biochemistry, or a closely related field. AND Two years of general environmental laboratory experience in biological, toxicological, biochemical, and/or bacteriological analysis. A master's degree in the above educational fields may be substituted for one year of the required experience. Note: If the word “experience” is referenced in the minimum qualifications, it means full-time paid experience unless the minimum qualification states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements. Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application. Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click here or speak to someone in our office before the cut-off date listed in this notice. General Requirements Physical Requirements: Must be able to use hands to hold, shake, twist laboratory equipment during analysis. Distinguish visually colors, shapes, sizes, and numbers, and distinguish visually measurements as small as millimeter and a milliliter. Some positions in this series require the ability to climb a ladder, enter and exit a boat, and walk on sloped ground such as river levees carrying a variety of laboratory equipment or samples. The use of contact lenses is prohibited. License Requirements: Possession of a valid California Driver's License, Class C or higher, is required at the time of appointment. Failure to maintain the appropriate valid California Driver's License may constitute cause for termination from the class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Probationary Period The probationary period for this classification is six (6) months. Application and Testing Information APPLICATION Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit an online County of Sacramento employment application by 5:00 PM on the posted cut-off date. Click here to apply. County of Sacramento Department of Personnel Services Employment Services Division 700 H Street, Room 4667 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone (916) 874-5593; 7-1-1 California Relay Service Email EmployOffice@Saccounty.net Inter-Office Mail Code: 09-4667 www.SacCountyJobs.net Employment applications and all documentation requested in this announcement must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Your application should highlight all relevant education, training, and experience, and clearly indicate how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position as of the cut-off date. Application information must be current, concise and related to the requirements in this job announcement. You may only apply for this recruitment once. Duplicate and incomplete applications will be disqualified. A resume may be included with your application, however it will not substitute for the information requested on the application. SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE Applicants are required to provide a full and complete response to each supplemental question. The Supplemental Questionnaire is located in the tab marked "Supplemental Questions". Please be descriptive in your response. Note: Responses of "See Resume" or "See Application", or copy and paste of work experience are not qualifying responses and will not be considered. Supplemental Questionnaires must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. The supplemental questions are designed to elicit specific information regarding a candidate's experience, education, and training. Responses should be consistent with the information on your application and are subject to verification. Please provide place of employment, pertinent dates, and concise, descriptive and detailed information for each question. If a job included responsibilities applicable to several questions, separate the different functions of the job to answer all the questions completely. Resumes or referral to the application or other questionnaire responses will not be accepted in lieu of completing each question. If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question. For many individuals, it is more efficient to develop responses to the supplemental questions in a word processing document and then paste them into the final document to be submitted. Changes or corrections to your Supplemental Questionnaire cannot be made once your application packet has been submitted. If the Supplemental Questionnaire is used in the Formula Rate exam, failure to complete all of the questions or incomplete responses will result in a lower score. While scoring the Supplemental Questionnaire, the candidate's application and/or attachments will not be reviewed , therefore, a candidate's responses to the questions should be accurate, thorough, detailed, and complete. FORMULA RATE EXAMINATION (Weighted 100%) All candidates meeting the minimum qualifications by the cut-off date will have their Supplemental Questionnaire scored in the Formula Rate Examination. This examination will evaluate the relevance, level, recency, progression and quality of candidate's education, training and experience. The candidate's application or other materials will not be included in this examination. Therefore, the candidate's responses to the supplemental questionnaire should be thorough, detailed and complete. The score from the Formula Rate Examination will determine the ranking on the eligible/employment list for this job. All candidates competing in the testing process will receive written notice of their examination results by email. Notices can also be accessed in their governmentjobs.com inbox. Applicants achieving a passing score will be placed on the eligible list in rank order. The rank is determined by the test score attained from the examination. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Click here for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) For information regarding County jobs: www.saccountyjobs.net EMPLOYEE BENEFITS As an employee of the County of Sacramento, there will be a variety of benefits available to you. These benefits currently include: health, dental and life insurance; flexible spending account options for dependent care and unreimbursed dental and/or medical cost; and an employee assistance program (EAP). GENERAL BENEFITS: Most employee benefits are similar to the following for all County employees. However, some benefits differ, depending on the employee representation unit to which the employee's job classification is assigned. Information about the exact benefits applicable to a particular job classification may be obtained from the Sacramento County Department of Benefits or by visiting www.saccountyjobs.net. TEMPORARY POSITIONS: Most benefits do not apply to temporary positions. The explanations of benefits applies to employees in regular positions. SALARY STEP INCREASES: The beginning salary and the top of the salary range are usually shown on the job announcement. Upon satisfactory service, salary increases of approximately 5% are given annually until the top of the salary range has been attained. PAY: All employees are paid bi-weekly via direct deposit into the employee's bank account. The pay period covers fourteen (14) calendar days, starting on a Sunday and ending on the second Saturday thereafter. Salaries are generally paid on the Friday following the end of the pay period. Employees can set up their direct deposit and access their pay information via Employee Self Service in MySacCounty. VACATION: Generally, vacation with pay begins at 10 days annually. With increase over a period of years, the maximum annual vacation with pay is 25 days. HOLIDAYS: 14.5 holidays per year as recognized. SICK LEAVE: Equivalent to 15 days annually, unlimited accumulation. Upon retirement, unused sick leave is converted to retirement service credit. PARENTAL LEAVE: Entitles a regular County employee, with at least one year of continuous employment, to schedule a paid parental leave of up to 160 hours upon the birth or during the process of an adoption of a minor child. Parental leave shall be approved by the employee's appointing authority, except where the granting of the parental leave request would unduly interfere with or cause severe hardship upon department operations. TUITION REIMBURSEMENT: Dependent upon union agreements, regular County employees may be eligible to receive Tuition Reimbursement. The costs for course tuition/registration fees and required books/supplies are eligible for reimbursement. Tuition reimbursement amounts may vary depending upon union agreement. RETIREMENT: Social Security and Sacramento County Employees' Retirement System coverage. HEALTH INSURANCE: The County offers a variety of health plan design options to fit individual needs. DENTAL INSURANCE: The County provides a comprehensive dental benefit program for regular full-time and part-time employees and their eligible dependents. This plan pays on a set fee schedule that varies by procedure. Any amount over the fee schedule is the employee's responsibility. The yearly maximum is $2,000 per person, not including orthodontia. The orthodontic benefit is 50% of covered charges with a lifetime maximum of $1,000 per person. LIFE INSURANCE: The County of Sacramento provides a basic life insurance benefit of $15,000 to all eligible employees at no cost. Additional coverage may be purchased through payroll deduction. DEFERRED COMPENSATION: The County offers a Deferred Compensation Program which enables employees to save in a systematic way without paying income tax on either the payroll deduction or the earned interest, prior to withdrawal. EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: The County of Sacramento provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their eligible dependents. The EAP offers confidential, professional counseling services in areas such as: Legal Advice/Difficult Decisions Marriage or Family Relationships Financial or Credit Worries/Elder Care Alcohol and Drug Abuse WELLNESS INCENTIVE PROGRAM: The County will recognize and award time off to eligible employees who maintain an excellent attendance record. FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT: The County offers regular employees two separate Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA's). These accounts allow employees to set money aside, on a pre-tax basis via payroll deduction, to pay for medical, dental or dependent care expenses. DEPENDENT CARE REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT: Employees may set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified childcare or dependent care expenses that are necessary for the employee and/or spouse to continue working. MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT: The Medical Reimbursement Account allows pre-tax dollars to be set aside to pay for out-of-pocket expenses that are not paid by insurance or reimbursed by any other benefit plan. WORKERS' COMPENSATION: In case of injury while on the job, each employee is protected under the Workers' Compensation laws of California. SACRAMENTO CREDIT UNION: The credit union offers loan facilities and systematic saving plans through payroll deduction. SELECTION AND PLACEMENT Sacramento County encourages applications from all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, gender, disability, political affiliation, or age. Certain age limits may be required by law, ordinance, or Civil Service direction for specific classifications such as those identified with hazardous occupations. FOR APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES ONLY: Every effort is made to provide reasonable accommodations to disabled applicants such as in the selection of test sites, aides, or other equipment which permits the disabled applicants to compete in the examination process. Applicants with disabilities requesting an applicable ADA testing accommodation must complete a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form filled out and signed by the applicant and their doctor. This form must be submitted to the Disability Compliance Office, 700 H Street, Room 5720, Sacramento, CA 95814, by the cut-off date or final filing date as listed in this job announcement. Download the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form by clicking here or contact by mail or in person the Sacramento County Employment Services Division or Disability Compliance Office. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Please read carefully the "Minimum Qualifications" section of your announcement. You must meet those qualifications by the application deadline date unless otherwise specified. Your application must clearly show you meet the minimum qualifications by the application deadline date, or it will not be accepted. All statements are subject to verification. "Experience" means full-time paid experience unless the announcement states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements. PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATIONS: If the announcement indicates the examination is given on a promotional basis, candidates must hold permanent status in Sacramento County Civil Service by the application deadline date and must meet the minimum qualifications. OPEN EXAMINATIONS: Any person who meets the minimum qualifications may apply. CONTINUOUS FILING EXAMINATIONS: Applicants are eligible to reapply to and retake a continuous filing exam after 6 months from the date the previous exam results was received. ELIGIBLE LISTS: Names of qualified persons who made a passing score on an examination are entered, in order of their final grades, on an eligible list. To fill each vacancy, the hiring department will make a selection from among the top three ranks on the employment lists. EXAMINATION RATINGS: Unless otherwise stated on the announcement: To be successful, candidates must obtain a rating of at least 70% on each part of the examination. This may be an adjusted score or an arithmetic 70% of the total possible score as determined by the Director. APPEAL PROCESS: Persons who believe their applications have been improperly rejected may request the Employment Services Division to review its decision to reject the application. If the applicant desires to submit additional proof of qualifications, such proof must be received by Personnel Services not less than two (2) calendar days prior to the scheduled date for the examination. Persons who are disqualified in any phase of the examination may appeal such adverse action, in writing, to the Civil Service Commission, 700 H Street, Room 2640, Sacramento, CA 95814, telephone: (916) 874-5586 . Such appeals must be filed within thirty (30) calendar days after notice of the adverse action was mailed to the candidate. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs): https://personnel.saccounty.net/Pages/EmploymentServicesFAQs.aspx OTHER INFORMATION VETERAN'S PREFERENCE: Military veterans who have served during wartime shall be given preference in initial appointment to County service. Such preference shall apply, provided the veteran has first achieved a minimum passing score in the examination. The passing score of a veteran shall be annotated to indicate the veteran's score shall be regarded as 5 points or higher, OR 10 points higher for disabled veterans, only for the purpose of determining the three ranks along with which the veteran's name shall be certified. No score shall actually be changed and no new rank shall be created as a result of application of veteran's preference for certification purposes. "Disabled Veteran" means any veteran who has served during wartime and, who, as of the final filing date for an examination is declared by the United States Veterans Administration or military service department to be 10% or more disabled as a result of his/her military service. Persons claiming eligibility for disabled veteran's preference must submit to the employment office, on or before the application deadline date, a certification from the United States Veterans Administration or a military service department, dated within 1 year, which certifies the present existence of a service related disability of 10% or more, or other acceptable proof of such disability as a result of his/her military service. Persons claiming eligibility for veterans preference must submit a copy of Form DD 214 or other acceptable proof of veteran's status on or before the final filing date for the examination. For purpose of this rule "reserve" status does not constitute active duty. CITIZENSHIP OR AUTHORIZED ALIEN REQUIREMENT: As required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all County employees must be United States citizens or aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Proof of citizenship or authorized status will be required prior to appointment. CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE: Some County Civil Service positions are covered by financial disclosure requirements intended to identify potential conflicts of interest. CONCURRENT EMPLOYMENT: No employee may concurrently occupy more than one County position. SPECIAL SKILL QUALIFICATIONS (WHEN SPECIFIED ON THE APPLICATION): Persons who have special skills required by some (but not all) positions in a class may be certified ahead of others provided that: Such special skills are based on the duties and requirements of the positions and are in conformance with merit system and equal opportunity principles, and The certification of eligibles who possess special skills have been approved by the Civil Service Commission. PRE-EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL EXAMINATION & DRUG TESTING: The County of Sacramento is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol free workplace. All persons selected for appointment to positions must pass a medical examination and a drug test, administered by the County at no cost to the applicant. DRIVER LICENSE: Possession of a valid California Driver License may be required for some positions. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Regular positions are subject to a probationary period which is an extension of the selection process. Unless otherwise indicated on the announcement, the probationary period is six (6) months. AGENCY SHOP/FAIR SHARE FEE: Some positions require, as a condition of continued employment, that the person either: 1. Become a union member; 2. Pay a fair share fee to the union; or, 3. Meet specific requirements under which an equivalent amount must be paid to a charity. FINGERPRINTING AND CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS: Fingerprinting and criminal record checks are required for some positions. Closing Date/Time: 4/10/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Description DEFINITION Under policy direction of the Board of Supervisors and general administrative direction of the County Administrative Officer, to plan, organize, administer, coordinate, review and evaluate all of the functions and staff of the Agriculture Department; to serve as the agricultural official and weights and measures official and pesticide official for the County in charge of regulatory and inspection programs that protect the environment, consumers, and the agricultural industry; to collect, maintain, and publish Annual Crop Report; to serve as spokesperson regarding complex agricultural matters; and to perform related duties as assigned DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Each California County is mandated by the State to appoint an Agricultural Commissioner and a Sealer of Weights and Measures to carry out certain functions as required by law. The County of San Benito has consolidated the offices of County Agricultural Commissioner and County Sealer of Weights and Measures into a single office. This department head position is appointed by the Board of Supervisors to a four (4) year term and is responsible for providing administrative leadership, technical oversight, and policy direction to the following State-mandated County services. As County Agricultural Commissioner, the incumbent is charged with the protection of San Benito County agriculture, the protection of the environment as well as protection of the public's health and safety. These goals are accomplished through the management of agricultural programs designed to achieve our mission through a combination of public outreach, industry education and enforcement actions As County Sealer of Weights and Measures, the incumbent inspects and tests packaged commodities and all commercially used devices. Transactions derived from the use of such devices are also inspected for accuracy. In addition to inspection activities, provides education and training to the public as well as the regulated industries The position is expected to accomplish these functions with a maximum degree of independence within established policies and procedures set forth by the Board of Supervisors, County Administrative Officer, and federal, state, and County laws, ordinances, and regulations. Responsibilities include coordination with management staff of other County departments and governmental agencies, including the California Departments of Food and Agriculture, Pesticide Regulation, and Public Health, to manage and accomplish the diverse mandated activities of the office. The incumbent is accountable for accomplishing departmental long- and short-range planning and operational goals and objectives and for furthering County goals and objectives within general policy guidelines and budgetary limitations. REPORTS TO Board of Supervisors and County Administrative Officer CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED Directly and indirectly supervises the Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of W&M, Supervising Agricultural Biologist Inspector, Agricultural Biologist Inspectors I/II/III, Senior Agricultural Biologist/Inspectors, Agricultural Technicians, Administrative Assistant I/II, and support staff. Example of Duties EXAMPLES OF DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.) Develops and directs the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards for the department; plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates staff, functions, and organizational units of the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner-Sealer. Carries out supervisory responsibility in accordance with policies, procedures, and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, training, planning, assigning, and directing work; appraises performance; rewards and disciplines employees; addresses complaints and resolves problems. Directs, supervises, and personally performs inspections and investigations in enforcing rules relating to the packing, shipping, and standardization of agricultural produce; supervises the inspections of nursery stock, feeds, and apiaries for evidence of diseased conditions and takes actions to control and eradicate disease where found. Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate fiscal systems planning, control, audit, and accounting programs; develops and recommends operating budget annually; monitors and administers approved budget; designs, coordinates, and maintains cost accounting, general accounting, and billing systems, procedures, and practices assuring quality and technical accuracy of fiscal services. Reviews and administers various state and federal contracts for each fiscal year. Carries out the directions and assists the Secretary for the State Department of Food and Agriculture; serves as local administrator for pest prevention, the Organic Act and Farmer's Markets, inspections of nurseries, seed, fruits and vegetables, eggs, and control of invasive weeds. Carries out the directions and assists the Director of the Department of Pesticide Regulations; serves as local administrator for pesticide enforcement and investigations; issues restricted materials permits. Plans, implements, directs, and reviews the mosquito abatement programs and activities with the assistance of the California Department of Public Health; prepares reports for presentation to the governing board; evaluates program operations; coordinates with other public agencies on program activities. Cooperates with federal agencies in the enforcement of federal rules and regulations. Plans, organizes, and directs the Weights and Measures program to inspect weighing and measuring devices, package commodities, weigh master, and petroleum product quality under general supervision of the State Department of Food and Agriculture; ensures violators of weights and measures laws are prosecuted; carries out civil penalty actions for violations, as needed. Oversees, builds, and manages the Cannabis Business Regulatory program; implements goals, strategies, policies, and programmatic framework for the issuing of licenses; evaluates the licensing of cannabis locations and issues, denies, or revokes permits based on guidelines; works with other departments and industry representatives across the County in developing and promoting a compliant environment for cannabis. Maintains and upgrades professional knowledge, skills, and development by attending seminars and training programs and reading trade and professional journals and publications. Consults with USDA, University Extension, and others to learn about new pests and new pest control methods. Compiles and publishes annual the Crop Report with agricultural production and acreage, including an annual report to the Secretary of CDFA on pests, organic farming, IPM and biological control activities; compiles information into a summary report for review by others. Writes detailed or technical reports of all findings, conclusions, and recommendations based on a thorough analysis and interpretation of data for presentation to others. Monitors current, newly adopted, and proposed legislation; suggests changes in legislation. Attends and participates in the annual meeting of the California Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association and a variety of meetings as required; attends meetings of the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California, as needed. Discusses pest and pest management solutions with growers, environmental groups, agencies, and other members of the public. Conducts interviews with the media regarding agricultural topics. Coordinates with other County Agricultural Commissioners, Sealers and managers of other mosquito abatement districts on a regional basis. Prepares and submits reports to the Board of Supervisors on department activities. Other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS- TRAINING & EXPERIENCE: Any combination of training and experience which would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in agriculture sciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, or a related field. A Master’s degree is desirable, AND Five years of increasingly responsible agricultural inspection and weights and measures testing and inspection experience, including two years of experience in a management and/or supervisory capacity. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of, or the ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of a County Agricultural Commissioner License issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture is required at the time of appointment. Possession of County Sealer of Weights and Measures License issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture is required at the time of appointment. All County employees can and will be called upon to act as Disaster Workers when needed. In the event that an employee changes class, or if requirements are changed after initial appointment, employees may be required to submit to a background investigation. Knowledge Of/Ability To Knowledge of: The duties and responsibilities of the County Agricultural Commissioner-Sealer's Office. Applicable state, federal, county, and local ordinances, codes, laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to agricultural, commodities, weights, and measures inspections. Farming methods. Forms of pest management, including mechanical, cultural, chemical, biological, and integrated pest management. Pesticide chemistry, toxicology, and modes of action. Sciences of entomology, plant pathology, nematology, botany, biology, zoology, and ecology. Legislative processes and criminal, civil, and administrative penalties. Thorough principles of public administration, including organization, budgeting and financial management, general management, staff development, and supervision. Management practices involving the technical, legal, financial, and public relations involved in the operation of a county department. Methods and techniques of research and report presentation. Mosquito abatement procedures and practices. Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work, including word processing, database, and spreadsheet software. Ability to: Deal effectively with the general public and the media. Deal with individuals and the public in stressful situations. Speak effectively before public groups and respond to questions. Read, analyze, and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures, and government regulations. Interpret a variety of technical instructions with abstract and/or concrete variables. Define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Enforce the laws in a fair and impartial manner. Identify many different plants, animals, insects, and diseases. Plan, organize, assign, direct, review, and evaluate the work of a staff engaged in agricultural inspections and enforcement work. Select and motivate staff and provide for their training and professional development. Use tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment within established guidelines. Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow up assignments with a minimum of direction. Research, compile, interpret, and summarize a variety of informational, technical, and statistical data and materials. Make effective presentations. Instill public confidence in quality and necessity of services. Coordinate departmental activities with other departments and agencies. Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications programs. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: The contents of this class specifications shall not be construed to constitute an expressed or implied warranty or guarantee, nor shall it constitute a contract of employment. The County of San Benito assumes no responsibility beyond the general accuracy of the document, nor does it assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information contained herein. The contents of this specification may be modified or revoked without notice. Terms and conditions of employment are determined through a "meet and confer" process and are subject to the Memorandum of Understanding currently in effect. In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all County of San Benito employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath. SAN BENITO COUNTY BENEFITS FOR MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES (This is meant to be an overview of benefits only. For full benefit terms and conditions, please see MOU) Employees in regular, full-time positions will be eligible to participate in the following employee benefits: Pay Day: Employees are paid bi-weekly. Insurance Deductions: The insurance and benefits deductions will take place bi-monthly, normally the first two pay periods of the month. Bank/Credit union and 457 Retirement Deferrals deductions will take place bi-weekly. Vacation: Based on continued years of service. Newly hired MEG employees may be eligible for higher vacation accrual rate for previous public sector experience (verification required). Maximum accruals may apply depending on the bargaining unit. 5 to 9 years of service = 15 days per year 10 to 14 years of service = 18 days per year 15 + years of service = 20 days per year Administrative Leave: Management employees receive 80 hours of administrative leave per calendar year. Forty (40) unused hours can be paid out at the end of the calendar year. Administrative leave is pro-rated. Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating) for most employees. Safety officers and dispatchers receive approximately 5% holiday pay in addition to their base pay in lieu of paid holidays off. Sick Leave: 15 days per year. Maximum accruals apply. Medical Plan: Comprehensive CalPERS medical plans available for full-time employees. Employees appointed to a regular position at a time base of 50% or higher are eligible to participate. Increase County contributions to medical effective January 2024. a. Employee Only: $750.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum b. Employee Plus One: $1,250.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum c. Family: $1,515.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum The County's contribution above shall be prorated for positions that are less than .90 FTE rounding to the nearest one-quarter time. HRA: Employee Only Medical Plan: $1,500 maximum Employee Plus One Medical Plan: $3,000 maximum. Employee Plus Family Medical Plan: $4,000 maximum. Employees who are eligible to receive a "cash in lieu of' enrollment in the County's medical plan shall receive a taxable payment of $150 monthly (pro-rated into biweekly installments of $69.23). Dental Plan: County contributes $30 to Delta Dental plan for full-time employees and their families. Vision Plan: The County pays for employee coverage and the employee can pay for dependent coverage. This benefit is available to full-time employees only. Employee Assistance Program: The County provides confidential short-term counseling services to employees and dependents. Life Insurance/AD&D: County pays for a $20,000 BASIC life insurance policy for each employee. Voluntary life insurance plans available. Disability Insurance: Confidential and Management groups participate in the State Disability Insurance. Credit Union: Membership to the Santa Clara Federal Credit Union is available to San Benito County employees. Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in tax-deferred retirement savings. Three 457 plans are available. Employees may rollover funds from prior 401k or 457 accounts. IRS limits apply. Retirement: Regular employees will be enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system in accordance with the Public Employees' Retirement Law. Employee contributions vary according to bargaining unit. All New Miscellaneous (non-Safety) employees enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system participate in the full formula of 2% at 62. Miscellaneous employees participate in Social Security in addition to CalPERS. Supplemental Insurance: Employees may participate in various AFLAC plans such as accident, disability, and cancer insurances. Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and Dependent Care available, pre-tax deductions. 01 I understand all County employees will be required to take an Oath of Office and will be called upon to act as Disaster Service Workers, when needed. Yes 02 Please be sure to answer the supplemental questions thoroughly and accurately. Applicants are responsible for clearly, completely, and accurately identifying their qualifications. Your responses to the questions must be supported by both the work experience listed on your application as well as your resume. The rating of the supplemental questions may determine your application status and/or rank on the eligible list. Answers such as "see resume" or "see above" will remove you from consideration. I have read and understand the statement above concerning submission of supplemental questionnaire responses. Yes No 03 Do you possess a County Agricultural Commissioner License issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA)? Yes No 04 Do you possess a County Sealer of Weights and Measures License issued by the CDFA? Yes No 05 Do you possess one of the following degrees from an accredited college or university with major course work in agriculture sciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, or a related field? Bachelor's Degree Master's Degree None of the above 06 Do you have at least five years of increasingly responsible agricultural inspection and weights and measures testing and inspection experience, including two years of experience in a management and/or supervisory capacity? Yes No 07 Please describe your experience overseeing multiple agricultural projects or programs. Detail how you prioritized your assignments and what steps you take to ensure that deadlines are met. 08 Provide a general overview of your experience in certificated agricultural inspection and enforcement work. Required Question Closing Date/Time: Continuous
Mar 05, 2024
Full Time
Description DEFINITION Under policy direction of the Board of Supervisors and general administrative direction of the County Administrative Officer, to plan, organize, administer, coordinate, review and evaluate all of the functions and staff of the Agriculture Department; to serve as the agricultural official and weights and measures official and pesticide official for the County in charge of regulatory and inspection programs that protect the environment, consumers, and the agricultural industry; to collect, maintain, and publish Annual Crop Report; to serve as spokesperson regarding complex agricultural matters; and to perform related duties as assigned DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Each California County is mandated by the State to appoint an Agricultural Commissioner and a Sealer of Weights and Measures to carry out certain functions as required by law. The County of San Benito has consolidated the offices of County Agricultural Commissioner and County Sealer of Weights and Measures into a single office. This department head position is appointed by the Board of Supervisors to a four (4) year term and is responsible for providing administrative leadership, technical oversight, and policy direction to the following State-mandated County services. As County Agricultural Commissioner, the incumbent is charged with the protection of San Benito County agriculture, the protection of the environment as well as protection of the public's health and safety. These goals are accomplished through the management of agricultural programs designed to achieve our mission through a combination of public outreach, industry education and enforcement actions As County Sealer of Weights and Measures, the incumbent inspects and tests packaged commodities and all commercially used devices. Transactions derived from the use of such devices are also inspected for accuracy. In addition to inspection activities, provides education and training to the public as well as the regulated industries The position is expected to accomplish these functions with a maximum degree of independence within established policies and procedures set forth by the Board of Supervisors, County Administrative Officer, and federal, state, and County laws, ordinances, and regulations. Responsibilities include coordination with management staff of other County departments and governmental agencies, including the California Departments of Food and Agriculture, Pesticide Regulation, and Public Health, to manage and accomplish the diverse mandated activities of the office. The incumbent is accountable for accomplishing departmental long- and short-range planning and operational goals and objectives and for furthering County goals and objectives within general policy guidelines and budgetary limitations. REPORTS TO Board of Supervisors and County Administrative Officer CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED Directly and indirectly supervises the Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of W&M, Supervising Agricultural Biologist Inspector, Agricultural Biologist Inspectors I/II/III, Senior Agricultural Biologist/Inspectors, Agricultural Technicians, Administrative Assistant I/II, and support staff. Example of Duties EXAMPLES OF DUTIES (The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.) Develops and directs the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards for the department; plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates staff, functions, and organizational units of the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner-Sealer. Carries out supervisory responsibility in accordance with policies, procedures, and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, training, planning, assigning, and directing work; appraises performance; rewards and disciplines employees; addresses complaints and resolves problems. Directs, supervises, and personally performs inspections and investigations in enforcing rules relating to the packing, shipping, and standardization of agricultural produce; supervises the inspections of nursery stock, feeds, and apiaries for evidence of diseased conditions and takes actions to control and eradicate disease where found. Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate fiscal systems planning, control, audit, and accounting programs; develops and recommends operating budget annually; monitors and administers approved budget; designs, coordinates, and maintains cost accounting, general accounting, and billing systems, procedures, and practices assuring quality and technical accuracy of fiscal services. Reviews and administers various state and federal contracts for each fiscal year. Carries out the directions and assists the Secretary for the State Department of Food and Agriculture; serves as local administrator for pest prevention, the Organic Act and Farmer's Markets, inspections of nurseries, seed, fruits and vegetables, eggs, and control of invasive weeds. Carries out the directions and assists the Director of the Department of Pesticide Regulations; serves as local administrator for pesticide enforcement and investigations; issues restricted materials permits. Plans, implements, directs, and reviews the mosquito abatement programs and activities with the assistance of the California Department of Public Health; prepares reports for presentation to the governing board; evaluates program operations; coordinates with other public agencies on program activities. Cooperates with federal agencies in the enforcement of federal rules and regulations. Plans, organizes, and directs the Weights and Measures program to inspect weighing and measuring devices, package commodities, weigh master, and petroleum product quality under general supervision of the State Department of Food and Agriculture; ensures violators of weights and measures laws are prosecuted; carries out civil penalty actions for violations, as needed. Oversees, builds, and manages the Cannabis Business Regulatory program; implements goals, strategies, policies, and programmatic framework for the issuing of licenses; evaluates the licensing of cannabis locations and issues, denies, or revokes permits based on guidelines; works with other departments and industry representatives across the County in developing and promoting a compliant environment for cannabis. Maintains and upgrades professional knowledge, skills, and development by attending seminars and training programs and reading trade and professional journals and publications. Consults with USDA, University Extension, and others to learn about new pests and new pest control methods. Compiles and publishes annual the Crop Report with agricultural production and acreage, including an annual report to the Secretary of CDFA on pests, organic farming, IPM and biological control activities; compiles information into a summary report for review by others. Writes detailed or technical reports of all findings, conclusions, and recommendations based on a thorough analysis and interpretation of data for presentation to others. Monitors current, newly adopted, and proposed legislation; suggests changes in legislation. Attends and participates in the annual meeting of the California Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association and a variety of meetings as required; attends meetings of the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California, as needed. Discusses pest and pest management solutions with growers, environmental groups, agencies, and other members of the public. Conducts interviews with the media regarding agricultural topics. Coordinates with other County Agricultural Commissioners, Sealers and managers of other mosquito abatement districts on a regional basis. Prepares and submits reports to the Board of Supervisors on department activities. Other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS- TRAINING & EXPERIENCE: Any combination of training and experience which would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in agriculture sciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, or a related field. A Master’s degree is desirable, AND Five years of increasingly responsible agricultural inspection and weights and measures testing and inspection experience, including two years of experience in a management and/or supervisory capacity. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of, or the ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License. Possession of a County Agricultural Commissioner License issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture is required at the time of appointment. Possession of County Sealer of Weights and Measures License issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture is required at the time of appointment. All County employees can and will be called upon to act as Disaster Workers when needed. In the event that an employee changes class, or if requirements are changed after initial appointment, employees may be required to submit to a background investigation. Knowledge Of/Ability To Knowledge of: The duties and responsibilities of the County Agricultural Commissioner-Sealer's Office. Applicable state, federal, county, and local ordinances, codes, laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to agricultural, commodities, weights, and measures inspections. Farming methods. Forms of pest management, including mechanical, cultural, chemical, biological, and integrated pest management. Pesticide chemistry, toxicology, and modes of action. Sciences of entomology, plant pathology, nematology, botany, biology, zoology, and ecology. Legislative processes and criminal, civil, and administrative penalties. Thorough principles of public administration, including organization, budgeting and financial management, general management, staff development, and supervision. Management practices involving the technical, legal, financial, and public relations involved in the operation of a county department. Methods and techniques of research and report presentation. Mosquito abatement procedures and practices. Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work, including word processing, database, and spreadsheet software. Ability to: Deal effectively with the general public and the media. Deal with individuals and the public in stressful situations. Speak effectively before public groups and respond to questions. Read, analyze, and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures, and government regulations. Interpret a variety of technical instructions with abstract and/or concrete variables. Define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Enforce the laws in a fair and impartial manner. Identify many different plants, animals, insects, and diseases. Plan, organize, assign, direct, review, and evaluate the work of a staff engaged in agricultural inspections and enforcement work. Select and motivate staff and provide for their training and professional development. Use tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment within established guidelines. Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow up assignments with a minimum of direction. Research, compile, interpret, and summarize a variety of informational, technical, and statistical data and materials. Make effective presentations. Instill public confidence in quality and necessity of services. Coordinate departmental activities with other departments and agencies. Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications programs. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: The contents of this class specifications shall not be construed to constitute an expressed or implied warranty or guarantee, nor shall it constitute a contract of employment. The County of San Benito assumes no responsibility beyond the general accuracy of the document, nor does it assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information contained herein. The contents of this specification may be modified or revoked without notice. Terms and conditions of employment are determined through a "meet and confer" process and are subject to the Memorandum of Understanding currently in effect. In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all County of San Benito employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath. SAN BENITO COUNTY BENEFITS FOR MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES (This is meant to be an overview of benefits only. For full benefit terms and conditions, please see MOU) Employees in regular, full-time positions will be eligible to participate in the following employee benefits: Pay Day: Employees are paid bi-weekly. Insurance Deductions: The insurance and benefits deductions will take place bi-monthly, normally the first two pay periods of the month. Bank/Credit union and 457 Retirement Deferrals deductions will take place bi-weekly. Vacation: Based on continued years of service. Newly hired MEG employees may be eligible for higher vacation accrual rate for previous public sector experience (verification required). Maximum accruals may apply depending on the bargaining unit. 5 to 9 years of service = 15 days per year 10 to 14 years of service = 18 days per year 15 + years of service = 20 days per year Administrative Leave: Management employees receive 80 hours of administrative leave per calendar year. Forty (40) unused hours can be paid out at the end of the calendar year. Administrative leave is pro-rated. Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating) for most employees. Safety officers and dispatchers receive approximately 5% holiday pay in addition to their base pay in lieu of paid holidays off. Sick Leave: 15 days per year. Maximum accruals apply. Medical Plan: Comprehensive CalPERS medical plans available for full-time employees. Employees appointed to a regular position at a time base of 50% or higher are eligible to participate. Increase County contributions to medical effective January 2024. a. Employee Only: $750.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum b. Employee Plus One: $1,250.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum c. Family: $1,515.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum The County's contribution above shall be prorated for positions that are less than .90 FTE rounding to the nearest one-quarter time. HRA: Employee Only Medical Plan: $1,500 maximum Employee Plus One Medical Plan: $3,000 maximum. Employee Plus Family Medical Plan: $4,000 maximum. Employees who are eligible to receive a "cash in lieu of' enrollment in the County's medical plan shall receive a taxable payment of $150 monthly (pro-rated into biweekly installments of $69.23). Dental Plan: County contributes $30 to Delta Dental plan for full-time employees and their families. Vision Plan: The County pays for employee coverage and the employee can pay for dependent coverage. This benefit is available to full-time employees only. Employee Assistance Program: The County provides confidential short-term counseling services to employees and dependents. Life Insurance/AD&D: County pays for a $20,000 BASIC life insurance policy for each employee. Voluntary life insurance plans available. Disability Insurance: Confidential and Management groups participate in the State Disability Insurance. Credit Union: Membership to the Santa Clara Federal Credit Union is available to San Benito County employees. Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in tax-deferred retirement savings. Three 457 plans are available. Employees may rollover funds from prior 401k or 457 accounts. IRS limits apply. Retirement: Regular employees will be enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system in accordance with the Public Employees' Retirement Law. Employee contributions vary according to bargaining unit. All New Miscellaneous (non-Safety) employees enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system participate in the full formula of 2% at 62. Miscellaneous employees participate in Social Security in addition to CalPERS. Supplemental Insurance: Employees may participate in various AFLAC plans such as accident, disability, and cancer insurances. Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and Dependent Care available, pre-tax deductions. 01 I understand all County employees will be required to take an Oath of Office and will be called upon to act as Disaster Service Workers, when needed. Yes 02 Please be sure to answer the supplemental questions thoroughly and accurately. Applicants are responsible for clearly, completely, and accurately identifying their qualifications. Your responses to the questions must be supported by both the work experience listed on your application as well as your resume. The rating of the supplemental questions may determine your application status and/or rank on the eligible list. Answers such as "see resume" or "see above" will remove you from consideration. I have read and understand the statement above concerning submission of supplemental questionnaire responses. Yes No 03 Do you possess a County Agricultural Commissioner License issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA)? Yes No 04 Do you possess a County Sealer of Weights and Measures License issued by the CDFA? Yes No 05 Do you possess one of the following degrees from an accredited college or university with major course work in agriculture sciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, or a related field? Bachelor's Degree Master's Degree None of the above 06 Do you have at least five years of increasingly responsible agricultural inspection and weights and measures testing and inspection experience, including two years of experience in a management and/or supervisory capacity? Yes No 07 Please describe your experience overseeing multiple agricultural projects or programs. Detail how you prioritized your assignments and what steps you take to ensure that deadlines are met. 08 Provide a general overview of your experience in certificated agricultural inspection and enforcement work. Required Question Closing Date/Time: Continuous
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
CASTILE, New York, United States
Minimum Qualifications No Civil Service Minimum Qualifications - see "Additional Comments " for Operating Needs and Preferred Qualifications. Duties Description The regional Invasive Species Technician will work with OPRHP regional Environmental Stewardship Biologist, Environmental Stewardship Specialist, and Invasive Species Unit staff to meet regional and statewide stewardship goals. The work of the Invasive Species Technician will focus largely on supporting projects that involve the protection of rare, threatened, and endangered species and natural communities on park lands and Historic Sites. Job duties will include the survey, management and monitoring of invasive species (both terrestrial and aquatic), site restoration and monitoring, database and GIS management, project planning, education/outreach, wildlife management and monitoring as well as other duties to be determined at the discretion of regional staff. Work conditions include uneven terrain, heat, cold, and exposure to poison ivy, thorns, ticks, and biting insects. Ability to work, and maintain a good attitude, while performing physical work in spring, summer, and fall conditions. Strong interest in and commitment to environmental stewardship and team-oriented approach to solving environmental challenges. Position Locations: Genesee Region State Parks (Orleans, Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, and Wyoming Counties) Positions report to: Letchworth State Park 1 Letchworth State Park Castile, NY 14427 Duties & Responsibilities: - Support regional Stewardship staff in planning projects to meet regional goals - Survey, remove, and/or monitor invasive species (aquatic and terrestrial plants, forest pest/pathogens) - Provide guidance and support to field staff and volunteers (ECC, SCA, FORCES, partners, etc.) - Collect and manage field data using standardized methods - Maintain up-to-date project information in statewide databases (DESP, AGOL, iMap) - Respond promptly to statewide Early Detection/Rapid Response needs - Organize and participate in education and outreach events - Plan and implement projects based on stewardship needs and priorities - Perform native plantings/other restoration duties - Assist with wildlife management efforts and data entry where needed Additional Comments - Must possess self-motivation and the ability to work independently and maintain a good attitude, while performing physical work in a variety of conditions. - Must have a working knowledge of GPS/GIS and ecological monitoring methods. - Excellent organizational skills in field setting - Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license as a term and condition of employment. Preferred Qualifications - A degree or experience in forestry, environmental studies, ecology, natural resources management, or a relevant discipline, such as aquatic ecology, conservation biology, etc. is preferred but not required. - One year or more experience with plant identification - Backcountry orienteering and Leave No Trace experience a plus Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity. Closing Date/Time: 04/26/24
Mar 16, 2024
Full Time
Minimum Qualifications No Civil Service Minimum Qualifications - see "Additional Comments " for Operating Needs and Preferred Qualifications. Duties Description The regional Invasive Species Technician will work with OPRHP regional Environmental Stewardship Biologist, Environmental Stewardship Specialist, and Invasive Species Unit staff to meet regional and statewide stewardship goals. The work of the Invasive Species Technician will focus largely on supporting projects that involve the protection of rare, threatened, and endangered species and natural communities on park lands and Historic Sites. Job duties will include the survey, management and monitoring of invasive species (both terrestrial and aquatic), site restoration and monitoring, database and GIS management, project planning, education/outreach, wildlife management and monitoring as well as other duties to be determined at the discretion of regional staff. Work conditions include uneven terrain, heat, cold, and exposure to poison ivy, thorns, ticks, and biting insects. Ability to work, and maintain a good attitude, while performing physical work in spring, summer, and fall conditions. Strong interest in and commitment to environmental stewardship and team-oriented approach to solving environmental challenges. Position Locations: Genesee Region State Parks (Orleans, Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, and Wyoming Counties) Positions report to: Letchworth State Park 1 Letchworth State Park Castile, NY 14427 Duties & Responsibilities: - Support regional Stewardship staff in planning projects to meet regional goals - Survey, remove, and/or monitor invasive species (aquatic and terrestrial plants, forest pest/pathogens) - Provide guidance and support to field staff and volunteers (ECC, SCA, FORCES, partners, etc.) - Collect and manage field data using standardized methods - Maintain up-to-date project information in statewide databases (DESP, AGOL, iMap) - Respond promptly to statewide Early Detection/Rapid Response needs - Organize and participate in education and outreach events - Plan and implement projects based on stewardship needs and priorities - Perform native plantings/other restoration duties - Assist with wildlife management efforts and data entry where needed Additional Comments - Must possess self-motivation and the ability to work independently and maintain a good attitude, while performing physical work in a variety of conditions. - Must have a working knowledge of GPS/GIS and ecological monitoring methods. - Excellent organizational skills in field setting - Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license as a term and condition of employment. Preferred Qualifications - A degree or experience in forestry, environmental studies, ecology, natural resources management, or a relevant discipline, such as aquatic ecology, conservation biology, etc. is preferred but not required. - One year or more experience with plant identification - Backcountry orienteering and Leave No Trace experience a plus Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity. Closing Date/Time: 04/26/24
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
Springwater, New York, United States
Minimum Qualifications There are no minimum qualifications per Civil Service. Duties Description The Harriet Hollister Stewardship Project Technicians will work closely with the Finger Lakes Regional Biologist and other Finger Lakes Environmental Field Team staff to meet the goals and objectives of stewardship projects at Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area (HHS). Work will primarily take place in the field, but office work will also be necessary to input data and produce reports. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors in various terrains and weather conditions. Work conditions may include uneven terrain, heat, cold, rain, snow, and frequent exposure to poison ivy, thorns, ticks, wild parsnip, and biting/stinging insects. Candidates will receive training to become Apprentice Applicators and should be comfortable working with herbicides. • Coordinate with Environmental Field Team staff to plan, prioritize, and address invasive species issues at the project sites. • Conduct systematic invasive species surveys and pre-treatment monitoring at project sites. • Conduct trail maintenance, including trail re-routes, closures, and rehabilitation. • Use GIS (Geographic Information System) to compile survey data and prepare maps for use in project planning and management. • Utilize manual, mechanical, and chemical methods to control target invasive species. • Assist in restoration planting in priority areas. • Engage with park patrons at project sites, providing project information and interpretation. • Provide guidance and support to volunteers and partners. Employees will be required to work two weekends per month and may be required to extend past normal work hours to accommodate specific time-consuming tasks but will not exceed the typical work week hours. When on site at HHS, the restroom is a composting toilet only, and there is no running water. Nearest support at HHS is located at Stony Brook State Park. OPERATIONAL NEEDS: • Must be able to follow written direction, record and document required information effectively. • Candidate must be willing to obtain an Apprentice Applicator license and to apply chemical treatments under the supervision of a Certified Pesticide Applicator. • Must have knowledge of good safety practices. • Working knowledge of plant identification and experience in field botany is preferred but not required. • Must be able to communicate effectively with staff and park patrons. • Must have good organizational skills, accuracy, and ability to multi-task. • Must be able to perform physical labor in an outdoor setting in harsh terrain/weather. • High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred but not required. • Must possess and maintain and a valid driver’s license that allows candidate to candidate to legally operate a motor vehicle in New York State as a term and condition of employment. • Candidate must have reliable transportation to and from work location. o State vehicle available for use from EFO (Environmental Field Office) when traveling to HHS. • Candidates with experience in both native and invasive plant identification and invasive species management are preferred. Additional Comments BENEFITS: There are various benefits that a seasonal may be entitled to, including: • Vacation, Holiday, Sick, And Personal Leave • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance • New York State Retirement System Membership • Tuition Assistance Programs Learn more about our benefits at https://parks.ny.gov/employment/benefits.aspx Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity. Closing Date/Time: 03/29/24
Mar 08, 2024
Full Time
Minimum Qualifications There are no minimum qualifications per Civil Service. Duties Description The Harriet Hollister Stewardship Project Technicians will work closely with the Finger Lakes Regional Biologist and other Finger Lakes Environmental Field Team staff to meet the goals and objectives of stewardship projects at Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area (HHS). Work will primarily take place in the field, but office work will also be necessary to input data and produce reports. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors in various terrains and weather conditions. Work conditions may include uneven terrain, heat, cold, rain, snow, and frequent exposure to poison ivy, thorns, ticks, wild parsnip, and biting/stinging insects. Candidates will receive training to become Apprentice Applicators and should be comfortable working with herbicides. • Coordinate with Environmental Field Team staff to plan, prioritize, and address invasive species issues at the project sites. • Conduct systematic invasive species surveys and pre-treatment monitoring at project sites. • Conduct trail maintenance, including trail re-routes, closures, and rehabilitation. • Use GIS (Geographic Information System) to compile survey data and prepare maps for use in project planning and management. • Utilize manual, mechanical, and chemical methods to control target invasive species. • Assist in restoration planting in priority areas. • Engage with park patrons at project sites, providing project information and interpretation. • Provide guidance and support to volunteers and partners. Employees will be required to work two weekends per month and may be required to extend past normal work hours to accommodate specific time-consuming tasks but will not exceed the typical work week hours. When on site at HHS, the restroom is a composting toilet only, and there is no running water. Nearest support at HHS is located at Stony Brook State Park. OPERATIONAL NEEDS: • Must be able to follow written direction, record and document required information effectively. • Candidate must be willing to obtain an Apprentice Applicator license and to apply chemical treatments under the supervision of a Certified Pesticide Applicator. • Must have knowledge of good safety practices. • Working knowledge of plant identification and experience in field botany is preferred but not required. • Must be able to communicate effectively with staff and park patrons. • Must have good organizational skills, accuracy, and ability to multi-task. • Must be able to perform physical labor in an outdoor setting in harsh terrain/weather. • High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred but not required. • Must possess and maintain and a valid driver’s license that allows candidate to candidate to legally operate a motor vehicle in New York State as a term and condition of employment. • Candidate must have reliable transportation to and from work location. o State vehicle available for use from EFO (Environmental Field Office) when traveling to HHS. • Candidates with experience in both native and invasive plant identification and invasive species management are preferred. Additional Comments BENEFITS: There are various benefits that a seasonal may be entitled to, including: • Vacation, Holiday, Sick, And Personal Leave • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance • New York State Retirement System Membership • Tuition Assistance Programs Learn more about our benefits at https://parks.ny.gov/employment/benefits.aspx Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity. Closing Date/Time: 03/29/24