Early Detection/Rapid Response Entomologist

About the role

The Washington State Department of Agriculture is seeking an Early Detection/Rapid Response Insect Technician to join the Plant Protection Division. This position is located in Seattle and is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union.

Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific and technical activities to support invasive species management and prevention efforts
• Aid in the detection, delimitation, and eradication of designated non-native survey targets via the deployment and routine inspection of traps
• Maintain familiarity with various trapping techniques and data collection protocols
• Use technology to efficiently and accurately complete daily tasks
• Record daily survey work using assigned technology, including navigation between sites and effective route planning
• Submit daily timekeeping into Pisces
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders
• Communicate regularly with stakeholders and property owners to obtain permission to conduct survey activities, as well as distribute pest information

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in entomology, plant pathology, horticulture, botany, agronomy or closely allied field OR Equivalent education and/or experience
• Driver's License
• Six (6) months experience conducting scientific field work and data collection
• Previous experience with WSDA Pest Program survey or equivalent

Supplemental Information

Employee Benefits: A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules and teleworking. WSDA provides an excellent benefits package beyond traditional benefits, including Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave, and more. Employees are also provided with a range of personal protective equipment (PPE) required for their work.