County of Alameda

Under the direction and supervision of the Scientific Program Manager of the Alameda County Vector Control District, the Vector Ecologist conducts surveillance and control of vectors and vector-borne diseases; identifies vectors and habitat conditions that support those vectors; provides technical assistance and guidance for Vector Control Biologists; assists Scientific Program Manager in researching and conducting molecular/scientific testing methods for detecting pathogens and vector pesticides resistance of invertebrate vectors and vertebrate host animals.    

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES  

This is a single position, self-directed, lead classification located in the Environmental Health Vector Control District, providing technical advice and support for the next lower level classification of Assistant Vector Ecologist, as well as for Vector Control Managers and Vector Control Biologists.  The incumbent applies principles of biology and other related scientific disciplines to assist in developing and implementing the District’s vector and vector-borne diseases surveillance and programs; and serves as the medical entomologist charged with identification of invertebrate vectors and vertebrate reservoirs, and the training of staff on disease risks and methods of control. The Vector Ecologist assists the next higher level classification of Scientific Program Manager in maintaining the vector laboratory. Within one year of service in this class, the incumbent is required to be certified by the California Department of Public Heath for applying pesticides in controlling mosquitoes, terrestrial invertebrates, and vertebrates.

NOTE:  The following are the duties performed by employees in this clas­sifica­tion.  However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level.  Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all duties listed.  

1.  Identify insects and other arthropods; advise on the public health significance; and recommend exclusion and or control information to the public and the vector control staff.  

2.  Collaborate with the Scientific Program Manager to plan and conduct ecological studies and surveys of vectors and vector-borne diseases.  

3.  Conduct and implement the disease surveillance programs including but not limited to: mosquitoes/arbovirus, dead birds/West Nile virus, ticks/Lyme disease, fleas/Murine Typhus, rodents/hantavirus and other vector diseases and special projects.        

4.  Plan and conduct tests to determine efficiency of pesticides; investigate resistance of vectors or rodents to the commonly used pesticides. Research novel vector control methods and conducts efficacy trials for the control of ticks, fleas, venomous insects, and other pest species.   

5.  Research current knowledge of molecular/scientific testing for detecting pathogens from vectors (insects, ticks, rodents and other small animals), and assist the Scientific Program Manager to maintain a laboratory capable of supporting field surveillance activities and pesticides resistance for the Vector Control staff.  

6.  Compile testing data, analyze surveillance data, and interpret the results of scientific findings. Prepare written reports and manuscripts, and submit the manuscripts to peer review scientific journal for publications.  

7.  Collaborate with the Vector Control Manager to develop and recommend protocols and procedures of vector investigations, disease surveillance methods, and other technical related areas; and train new staff on the public health aspects of vector control and disease surveillance.  

8.  Develop training materials, technical brochures, factsheets, and informational materials of vectors and vectors controls for the staff and the public.  

9.  Write up and submit the quarterly newsletter of the current Vector activities to the Chief of Environmental Health for posting on the District’s website.  .  

Either I  

The equivalent of two years as an Assistant Vector Ecologist or a Senior Vector Control Biologist in the Alameda County classified service.  

Or II  

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (180 quarter units or 120 semester units) in Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, Environmental Health, Integrated Pest Management or closely related Health Sciences field is required. Examples of related fields include, but are not limited to: Microbiology, Entomology, Toxicology, Integrated Biology. An advanced degree is highly desirable.  

AND  

The equivalent of two years of full time experience in vector ecology, surveillance, and control. Experience providing lead responsibility is highly desirable.  

Certificate:  

Possession of a California State Certificate as a Public Health Vector Technician specializing in Mosquito Control, Terrestrial Invertebrate Vector Control, and Vertebrate Vector Control is required within one year of employment.  

License:  

Valid California State Motor Vehicle Operator’s license.  

Physical Requirements:  

·  Must be able to conduct field work (walk up/down and climb up/down steep canyons, creek beds, etc.).

·  Carry/move heavy field equipment up to 25 lbs.  

NOTE:     The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualif­ications in the announcement of an examination.  

Knowledge of:  

·  Fundamental knowledge of entomology, vector biology and ecology, disease surveillance, physical and chemical control methods of vectors, general biology of rodents and urban wildlife, and other related fields.

·  Scientific principles and procedures of conducting vector surveillance, control, and laboratory testing.

·  Identification of common vectors and nuisance wildlife.

·  Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to recommend environmentally sound methods of reducing and eliminating vector populations and nuisance pest or wildlife problems.

·  Methods of prevention and abatement of vector infestations, pesticide safety and personal protection, and hazards to non-target species.

·  Current methodology of the laboratory testing methods for detecting pathogens from vectors  (insects and animals), pesticide efficacy for controlling vectors and rodents and other pest related problems.

·  Laws, rules, and regulations that Federal, State and local ordinance govern concerning environmental issues such as: endangered species, restricted pesticides usages, wildlife relocation, medical waste disposal.

·  Computer skills in operations and software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point.           

Ability to:  

·  Provide authoritative identifications of common vectors and nuisance wildlife.

·  Develop, plan, organize, and direct all aspects of the District’s vector-borne disease surveillance and control programs, and special research projects.

·  Develop and provide clear and accurate protocols, procedures, correspondence, and other instructional materials; prepare reports, evaluations, and recommendations.

·  Collect and compile data, analyze scientific findings; prepare reports for the Annual Report and Newsletter; and prepare manuscripts and submit for peer review for scientific journal publication.

·  Communicate effectively in writing for developing brochures, factsheets, instructions, procedures and protocols.

·  Communicate orally to provide presentations at the Annual Conference of Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC), MVCAC Continual Education Workshops, and other job-related events.

·  Work cooperatively and effectively with management, staff, and the public.

·  Make decisions.

New Spec: 5695

NLB: jf 11/15/17

CSC Date: 7/18/18

Alameda County offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that affords wide-ranging health care options to meet the different needs of a diverse workforce and their families. We also sponsor many different employee discount, fitness and health screening programs focused on overall well being.  These benefits include but are not limited to*:

For your Health & Well-Being

• Medical – HMO & PPO Plans
• Dental – HMO & PPO Plans
• Vision or Vision Reimbursement
• Share the Savings
• Basic Life Insurance 
• Supplemental Life Insurance (with optional dependent coverage for eligible employees) 
• County Allowance Credit
• Flexible Spending Accounts - Health FSA, Dependent Care and Adoption Assistance
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Benefits - Accident Insurance, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity and Legal Services
• Employee Assistance Program

For your Financial Future

• Retirement Plan - (Defined Benefit Pension Plan)
• Deferred Compensation Plan (457 Plan or Roth Plan)

For your Work/Life Balance

• 12 paid holidays
• Floating Holidays
• Vacation and sick leave accrual
• Vacation purchase program
• Catastrophic Sick Leave
• Group Auto/Home Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits Program
• Guaranteed Ride Home
• Employee Wellness Program (e.g. At Work Fitness, Incentive Based Programs, Gym Membership Discounts)
• Employee Discount Program (e.g. theme parks, cell phone, etc.)
• Child Care Resources
• 1^st United Services Credit Union 

*Eligibility is determined by Alameda County and offerings may vary by collective bargaining agreement.  This provides a brief summary of the benefits offered and can be subject to change.