Early Detection/Rapid Response Insect Trapper

State of Washington • Clark County – Vancouver, WA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is seeking an Early Detection/Rapid Response Insect Trapper to conduct field activities for invasive species prevention. This role involves assembling, deploying, monitoring, and removing up to 150 traps targeting invasive hornet species. The position is temporary, with an anticipated end date of November 12, 2026, and is home-duty stationed in Vancouver, Washington. The work schedule is Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This role requires frequent interaction with live yellowjackets and other native wasps, and while stings are infrequent, they can occur. This is a full-time, non-permanent Agricultural Aide position represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or GED or equivalent education/experience.
• Driver's License.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working outdoors and driving long distances.
• Previous experience communicating with the public in a professional capacity.

Responsibilities

• Conduct invasive species detection surveys.
• Assist in the detection, delimitation, and eradication of designated non-native survey targets via the deployment and routine inspection of traps.
• Maintain familiarity with various trapping techniques and data collection protocols.
• Conduct visual detection surveys for signs and symptoms of designated survey targets.
• Screen insects captured in traps for regulatory target pests in the field.
• Collect specimen samples and maintain accurate and organized field data regarding survey activities and specimens.
• Use assigned technology to record daily survey work, including navigation between sites and effective route planning.
• Submit daily timekeeping into Pisces.
• Communicate with stakeholders and property owners to obtain permission to conduct survey activities, as well as distribute pest information.

Benefits

• A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules, and teleworking.
• Dependent Care Assistance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Tuition Waiver
• Deferred Compensation
• Employee Recognition Leave
• 12 paid Holidays & Vacation and Leave Accruals.
• All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required will be provided by the agency.

What This Job Offers

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