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AGRICULTURAL BIOLOGIST AIDE (#TC1 )

Apply as a Free Name or Other Special Appointment applicant

$23.23-$29.40 hourly / $4,026.00-$5,096.00 monthly / $48,318.40-$61,152.00 yearly


Definition

Under supervision, perform a variety of non-professional tasks in the field in support of agricultural and/or vector control activities; and perform other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Positions in this class assist agricultural inspectors and/or mosquito and vector control specialists by performing a variety of routine and repetitive tasks which do not require the skill and knowledge of inspectors or specialists.

Typical Tasks

Pest Detection:

  •   Identify target insects
  • Comply with the State Insect Trapping Guide's Procedures
  • Draw accurate maps of property and trap locations
  • Place, service and relocate insect traps within the Coy; remove all traps from the field at the end of trapping season
  • Recognize preferred host plants of the target insects
  • Handle, document and submit insect specimens
  • Maintain equipment, supplies and submit accurate daily records

Inspection:

  • Inspect head lettuce for compliance with established regulations and standards relating to quality, size and packaging
  • Inspect fields, greenhouses and other production areas to prevent and eradicate pest infestation
  • Inspect plant foliage and nursery stock for specific pests or diseases in accordance with specific guidelines
  • Collect crop samples from fields or orchards
  • Package specimens and samples for shipment to labs
  • Set and service yellow panel insect traps at nurseries within the County
  • Maintain equipment, supplies and submit accurate daily records

Vector Control:

  • Assist vector control program staff with field activities and laboratory work
  • Set, pick up and maintain traps for mosquito surveillance and detection of mosquito-borne viruses
  • Use a microscope to identify and sort mosquitoes using a taxonomic key
  • Maintain and keep data records and electronic maps
  • Distribute informational materials and assist with public information events
  • Assist with trail clearing using hand and motorized equipment
  • Under supervision assist with mosquito control using mosquitocides
  • Assist in tick and rodent surveillance and control efforts for other vectors such as wasps
  • Wade through ponds to thigh depth using backpack sprayers

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

Some knowledge of:

  • Record keeping and arithmetic
  • General computer skills

Ability to:

  • Maintain accurate and legible field notes and prepare simple reports
  • Input and access information using a computer and/or mobile device
  • Learn and apply routine inspection and sampling procedures
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions
  • Make arithmetic computations
  • Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with the public, co-workers, and others contacted in the course of work
  • Wade through thigh deep water
  • Distinguish colors and fine detail to perform tasks such as identifying exotic and common insects
  • Organize inspection routes for maximum efficiency
  • Prepare accurate maps marking locations of traps
  • Read and interpret street maps and use mapping programs for direction
  • Work independently in the field
  • Perform tasks requiring bending, stretching, twisting, reaching, or squatting
  • Move across broken or hilly terrain that may be slippery or wet
  • Lift objects up to 40 pounds, such as a backpack motorized sprayer filled with insecticide or, a 5-gallon bucket filled with water

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of education and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying, unless otherwise specified.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • License: Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License. (Note: Candidates with an out of state license may apply and go through recruitment and examination process, however verification of CA License must be provided at time of appointment).
  • Special Working Conditions: Exposure to variable temperatures and weather conditions which include exposure to sun; allergens such as poison oak, pollen and bee stings; odors caused by alcohol or lures that may contain dilute pesticides; slippery surfaces; toxic agricultural and public health pesticides; wetness, such as while walking through creeks, ponds and sloughs to conduct mosquito surveillance; odors, such as from marshes and septic water; potential infections, such as tick-borne Lyme disease or mosquito-borne viruses; aggressive animals, poisonous plants and animals; irate or hostile individuals; hazardous gases and chemicals.

Miscellaneous

PREVIOUS CLASS TITLES: None

Bargaining Unit: 41

EEOC Job Category: 05

Occupational Grouping: 73

Workers' Comp Code: 0285


CLASS: TC1; EST: 5/1/1981; REV: 6/1/2017;