AGRICULTURAL INTERDICTION INSPECTOR - 42001819

State of Florida • Jacksonville Beach, FL

6d • $42,561 - $46,818 • Onsite

About The Position

This is a professional position responsible for the survey, detection and interception of exotic and newly established plant pests for the purpose of minimizing or eliminating environmental and agricultural harm associated with their introduction. Inspects plants and plant products and other high-risk commodities from other states and foreign countries at interstate interdiction stations for the purpose of excluding plant pests, including arthropods and mollusks, and plant pathogens. Detects, examines, collects, prepares, and submits insects and other arthropods, disease, plant and soil samples to the appropriate technical section for diagnosis and/or confirmation. Uses approved sampling methods and equipment to collect laboratory samples. May obtain additional information using various investigative techniques or using reference materials, source materials, and interviews with authoritative sources to assist in proper diagnosis. Upon field diagnosis, initiates appropriate regulatory action in a professional manner. Clearly and concisely explains the reason for the regulatory decision to the broker or truck driver and explains the options. Resolves complaints from brokers and truck drivers when shipments are denied entry into Florida. Enforces adherence to Chapter 581, Florida Statutes, and appropriate rules. Maintains knowledge of Florida’s import requirements, botany, effects various pests and pathogens have on the inspected material, and pests that are native to Florida. Maintains proper records of all daily activities and submits timely and accurate reports of all work performed. Maintains knowledge of how to access and interpret plant export regulations of states and countries. Maintains licensure as a Federal Authorized Certification Official for the issuance of Federal Phytosanitary Certificates. Issues state or federal documents appropriate to the destination requirements of countries, ensuring adherence to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species and the Federal Endangered Species Act. Verifies import permits to determine the requirements of the importing country and witnesses required treatments to ensure compliance. Assists in organizing monthly blitz days through knowledge of seasonal produce imports. Conducts field surveys for exotic and newly established plant pests in natural, agricultural, and residential environments. Uses approved sampling methods and equipment to collect laboratory samples. Assists and participates in the organization of special programs such as plant pest eradication projects, exotic pest surveys and protocols within the state, including implementing chemical and biological controls, surveys, and regulatory enforcement actions. These activities may necessitate absences from assigned headquarters, unusual working hours, and may require serving as a trainer for employees hired for these special programs. Attends meetings and workshops and gives presentations to keep the public informed concerning the department’s plant pest activities. Performs other related work as directed by management.

Requirements

• High school diploma or its equivalent and one (1) year of experience in environmental protection, regulation, or health; one of the physical or natural sciences; agriculture; or engineering; OR
• High school diploma or its equivalent and six (6) months of experience as an Environmental Specialist I or higher with the State of Florida; OR
• A bachelor's degree (4 years) from an accredited college or university.
• Possession of a valid Class E driver license.
• All fields in the Candidate Profile must be completed.
• Work history, duties and responsibilities, hours worked, supervisor, and formal education fields must be filled out.
• Responses to Qualifying Questions must be verifiable in the Candidate Profile.
• Knowledge of techniques used in inspecting plants or other agricultural products.
• Knowledge of the regulatory treatment of plants including pesticide labeling restrictions.
• Knowledge of pests native to Florida.
• Skill in de-escalating intense situations and in conflict resolution.
• Skill in detecting plant pests and pathogens.
• Ability to accurately identify plants.
• Ability to pay very close attention to detail.
• Ability to operate a computer to access and retrieve electronic information.
• Ability to compile, organize and analyze data and make appropriate decisions.
• Ability to interpret rules and regulations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to lift and transport 50 pounds and bend repetitiously.
• Ability to work in extreme hot, cold, and humid temperature environments.
• Ability to conduct inspections in natural and cultivated areas with uneven ground.
• Ability to climb and maneuver around a delivery truck shipment.
• Successful candidate must pass a background screening, including fingerprinting.

Nice To Haves

• Graduates utilizing education attained in the United States to meet the minimum requirements of a position will not be appointed until verification of the applicable degree has been obtained.
• Foreign trained graduates utilizing a degree attained outside of the United States to meet the minimum requirements of a position must be prepared to provide a copy of a credential evaluation conducted by an Approved Credential Evaluation Agency.

Responsibilities

• Survey, detect, and intercept exotic and newly established plant pests.
• Inspect plants, plant products, and high-risk commodities at interstate interdiction stations.
• Detect, examine, collect, prepare, and submit samples for diagnosis.
• Initiate appropriate regulatory action upon field diagnosis.
• Explain regulatory decisions and resolve complaints from brokers and truck drivers.
• Enforce adherence to Chapter 581, Florida Statutes, and appropriate rules.
• Maintain knowledge of Florida’s import requirements, botany, pests, and pathogens.
• Maintain proper records of daily activities and submit timely reports.
• Maintain knowledge of plant export regulations.
• Maintain licensure as a Federal Authorized Certification Official.
• Issue state or federal documents for international trade.
• Verify import permits and witness required treatments.
• Assist in organizing monthly blitz days.
• Conduct field surveys for exotic and newly established plant pests.
• Assist and participate in special programs such as plant pest eradication projects.
• Attend meetings and workshops and give presentations.
• Perform other related work as directed by management.

Benefits

• Annual and Sick Leave benefits
• Nine paid holidays and one Personal holiday each year
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision and other supplemental insurance options
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition waivers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED