Pesticide Control Specialist 1 / Trainee 1 / 2 - NY HELPS

This position is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). For the duration of the program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment. At a future date, employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive status converted to competitive status without needing to compete in an examination.

Responsibilities

• Enforce state and federal pesticide laws and regulations.
• Investigate reported cases of pesticide misuse and pesticide-related incidents to substantiate and document violations.
• Inspect registered pesticide businesses, agencies, and applicators for compliance.
• Conduct pesticide use observations for agricultural and non-agricultural applications, including inspection of storage areas and application equipment.
• Inspect pesticide distributors and establishments selling pesticides to ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
• Conduct inspections of agricultural growers to determine compliance with the Federal Worker Protection Standard.
• Review and issue purchase permits.
• Conduct inspections to verify compliance with aquatic permit conditions.
• Monitor and evaluate pesticide applicator and recertification training programs.
• Conduct pesticide certification and recertification training.
• Review pesticide applicator eligibility and proctor certification examinations.
• Provide pesticide-related outreach and assistance.
• Communicate effectively using verbal and written communication skills.
• Interact professionally with the public, regulated community, coworkers, and federal, state, and local entities.
• Manage information in databases and spreadsheets.

Essential Functions

• Be highly motivated and able to problem-solve and make decisions.
• Be organized and able to manage multiple tasks and requests for technical assistance.
• Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Prepare and present information orally while maintaining a professional public image.
• Experience with presentations and utilizing software for presentations.
• Research, interpret, and apply environmental laws, regulations, and guidance.
• Demonstrate good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Work well with co-workers, supervisors, and supervisory staff.
• Answer telephones and emails promptly and professionally.
• Manage information in databases and spreadsheets.
• Participate in annual personal and professional development training.

Requirements

• Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.
• Use of personal protection equipment, including a respirator, will be required.
• Must be able to negotiate difficult terrain and work in remote areas.
• Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions.
• Travel, including overnight travel, may be required.
• Overtime may be required, including weekends and holidays.
• Must be available to respond to after-hours emergencies.
• Must successfully complete (or have completed) the 40-hour OSHA 1910.120 training course and all other required training.
• Must complete an annual Health and Safety Program including medical monitoring, fit testing, and 40 (or 8) hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification.
• Must be able to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of the work schedule.

Qualifications

Pesticide Control Specialist Trainee 1, SG-NS: A bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agronomy, agricultural science, animal science, aquatic biology, biochemistry, biology, botany, chemistry, ecology, ecosystem management, engineering, engineering technology, entomology, environmental biology, environmental education, environmental education and interpretation, environmental health, environmental science, environmental studies, environmental toxicology, forest biology, forest science, forestry, geochemistry, geology, horticulture, marine biology, marine science, microbiology, natural resources, natural science, physical science, plant pathology, urban forestry, wildlife biology, or zoology.

Pesticide Control Specialist Trainee 2, SG-NS: A bachelor’s degree in the fields listed above and one year of experience as a certified private or commercial pesticide applicator, with responsibility for:

• Reading and comprehending pesticide label requirements.
• Mixing, loading, handling, and applying pesticides.
• Selecting and recommending specific pesticides.
• Calibrating pesticide application equipment.
• Storing and disposing of pesticides and pesticide containers.
• Maintaining pesticide use records.
• Complying with all state and federal pesticide regulations.

Must also be certified as a pesticide applicator. A Juris Doctor, master’s, or higher degree in a related field can substitute for one year of specialized experience.

Pesticide Control Specialist 1, SG-18: A bachelor’s degree in the fields listed above and two years of experience as a certified private or commercial pesticide applicator, with the same responsibilities as listed for Trainee 2. Must also be certified as a pesticide applicator. A Juris Doctor, master’s, or higher degree in a related field can substitute for one year of specialized experience.

Candidates may also be eligible via reassignment, reinstatement, transfer, or 55-b/55-c appointment. For 55-b/55-c appointments, candidates must include a copy of the approval letter from Civil Service with their resume or application.

Benefits

• Work-life balance and a generous benefits package worth 65% of salary.
• Holiday and paid time off.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System.
• Shift and geographic pay differentials.
• Affordable health care options.
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost.
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan.
• Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds.

Pay

For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations, and negotiated union contracts.