TDA - Region 5 - Med/Mex Fly Trapper (74010)

About the role

Agency Information: The Texas Department of Agriculture's key objectives are to promote production agriculture, consumer protection, economic development and healthy living. Location: This position will report to the Harlingen USDA Office.

Job Description: The Med/Mex Fly Trapper will perform entry-level inspection work. You will establish, maintain, and inspect insect detection traps in an effort to establish the presence of Mediterranean or Mexican fruit flies or other types of plant pests of concern, to contribute to the efforts of the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to control both pest and economic damage to the state's citrus crop industry. You will report your daily activities to the Lead Med/Mex Fly Trapper. You will work under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain insect detection traps in appropriate positions and at proper densities near citrus trees in an effort to trap Mediterranean fruit flies and/or Mexican fruit flies and other types of plant pests, as assigned.
• Serve as a TDA representative and communicate with property owners granting permission and access for setting up new trap sites.
• Inspect and maintain insect detection traps daily for the presence of Med/Mex flies in compliance with USDA and TDA guidelines.
• Plot (map) the locations of traps and update the mapping records each time the trap sites are inspected.
• Prepare daily and weekly reports on the conditions of insect detection traps and trap sites, the number and locations of traps inspected each day, required JOT forms and submit reports to the appropriate USDA and TDA staff.
• Properly maintain any state and/or federal equipment issued, including a federal vehicle, and report any issues to your immediate supervisor.
• Complete accurate, detailed reports related to trappings; complete various weekly and end-of-month reports; and prepare a variety of required correspondence.
• Conduct thorough trappings and complete all related reports with data integrity.
• Coordinate and ensure that the Lead Med/Mex Fly Trapper and Regional Management are kept informed of issues related to trapping. Work with the Lead Med/Mex Fly Trapper and Regional Management in adjusting assigned routes to ensure all routes are covered in the most safe and efficient manner.
• Follow all TDA policies and procedures.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.
• Working conditions: extensive work outdoors, exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity, extensive moving and remaining stationary, walking and standing for extended periods, slippery and uneven walking surfaces, pulling and pushing, kneeling, stooping and bending, reaching overhead/above the shoulder, safely lifting and/or operating equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, safely handling hazardous and/or flammable materials, exposure to live insects and animals, exposure to dust, safely operating an assigned TDA or USDA vehicle and driving for long distances, working extended hours and some evenings and weekends as needed, daily and overnight travel (up to 75%).

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or the equivalent.
• Work experience trapping (Mediterranean fruit flies and/or Mexican fruit flies or other types of plant pests) or agricultural background or experience.
• Valid Texas driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
• Preferred qualifications: Bilingual speaking and writing ability in English and Spanish.

Skills

• Knowledge of USDA guidelines, policies, procedures, rules and regulations; the principles and methods of field inspection and quality control; and business practices in regulated occupations and industries.
• Skill in conducting inspections; in providing customer service excellence to both internal and external customers; in determining proper courses of action; in using and troubleshooting instruments or tools necessary to perform inspections; in using applicable computer programs and databases; and in maintaining records and written reports.
• Ability to prepare reports, gather and analyze data; prepare and read maps; plan, organize and work independently, as well as within a team environment; communicate effectively, orally and in writing; exercise sound judgment and discretion; and maintain the highest level of confidentiality.

Benefits

• Retirement Plan
• Paid Group Health and Life Insurance for