Title: Spotted Lanternfly Surveyor (2 positions/hourly/no benefits) #W0095/W0096

Hiring Range: $15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Agriculture & Consumer Svcs

Location: HARRISONBURG LAB-OFFICE

Agency Website: https://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Spotted Lanternfly Surveyor #W0095 & W0096 – Harrisonburg
(Agricultural Specialist III, Pay Band 3)

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Plant Industry Services seeks two qualified individuals for wage positions in the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) Survey and Treatment Program to assist in the detection and management activities of this new insect pest recently detected in Virginia.

Duties include visual surveys for SLF life stages, trapping, and treatment activities in and around the quarantined area in the cities of Buena Vista, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Lexington, Lynchburg, Manassas, Staunton, Waynesboro, Winchester, and counties of Albemarle, Augusta, Carroll, Clarke, Frederick, Page, Prince William, Rockingham, Rockbridge, Shenandoah, Warren, and Wythe, as well as in the surrounding counties where SLF are likely to be discovered. Training on the SLF life cycle and technology used for the survey will be provided.

Activities include communication with businesses and landowners to explain the purpose of the survey, to obtain permission for property access for program activities, and to coordinate with USDA and the treatment contractor. This position will also monitor the pesticide applications which are conducted by a commercial applicator, but will also be responsible for conducting treatments for the spotted lanternfly as well. Survey data will be recorded using a hand-held iPad or tablet. The selected individual will report to the Harrisonburg office for administrative work as needed.

The positions are grant funded with employment expected to last for one year; however, that term may be extended should the grant be extended or renewed. These are wage positions restricted to working no more than 1,500 hours per year starting each May 1. The positions offer no benefits or overtime. The selected individuals will be required to use their personal vehicles; however, they will be reimbursed for mileage at the prevailing IRS rate. Some overnight travel may be required.

Minimum Qualifications

This position requires the proven ability to follow instructions and read regulations; read maps; work with minimal supervision; make sound decisions; organize work; and interact professionally with supervisors, landowners, and the general public. A successful applicant must also have good oral and written communication skills as well as proficiency in the use of computers and devices such as iPads or other devices. This position is physically demanding and involves considerable walking, reaching, exposure to inclement weather conditions and other natural elements, and potentially driving for long periods of time. A valid driver’s license and a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety is also required. Must possess or be able to obtain a VA Pesticide Applicator’s License in Category 9-Regulatory Pest Control within approximately 3 months of hire. H.S. Diploma/GED required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Education or training in entomology, ecology, or a related science and/or knowledge of invasive insects. An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

Special Instructions:

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Final candidates must successfully complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Contact Information:

Name: Human Resources

Phone: (804) 371-8577

Email: hr.vdacs@vdacs.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.