OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 42900387

State of Florida • Palmetto, FL

6d • $17

About The Position

This is a professional position responsible for conducting a trapping initiative for continuous surveillance of moths that are pests of native and cultivated flora within the state of Florida.

Requirements

• An associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university or Six (6) months of experience in environmental protection, regulation, or health; one of the physical or natural sciences; agriculture; or engineering.
• Possession of a valid Driver License.
• Knowledge of techniques used in inspecting plants or other agricultural products.
• Ability to detect plant pests.
• Ability to compile, organize and analyze data.
• 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 work in hot, cold, and humid environments.
• Ability to walk on uneven ground and in inclement weather.
• Ability to lift 35 lbs. and bend repetitiously.
• Ability to operate a computer to access and retrieve electronic information.
• Ability to understand and follow specific protocols.

Responsibilities

• Monitors and maintains insect traps.
• Conducts pathway risk analysis for surveillance of exotic pests and diseases.
• Conducts native plant and crop inspections and surveys.
• Collects and field screens moth specimens.
• Submits suspect moth specimens for laboratory identification.
• Maintains records of specimen submittals, of other survey completion, and of survey activity data.
• Assists other CAPS personnel with additional Farm Bill surveys for other exotic and invasive crop pests.
• Assists with CAPS trapping and survey activities.
• Assists with other survey programs within the division.
• Assists with training new personnel as needed.
• Performs related work as directed by supervisor.

Benefits

• Benefits include a LinkedIn Learning training account and optional insurance coverage.
• Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)
• Participation in the Florida Deferred Compensation Plan (457b).
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax deferred Retirement Savings Plan)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees