Vector Specialist

Metropolitan Mosquito Control•St. Paul, MN

10h•$28 - $42

About The Position

Under the direction of the Vector Ecologist, the Vector Specialist will carry out vector and vector-borne disease surveillance, control, and research in support of District objectives

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, epidemiology, entomology, environmental health or related field, plus two years of professional experience in research and/or field operations; or equivalent combination of education and experience
MN Pesticide Applicator license (or ability to obtain upon employment)
While this position generally works normal business hours, you maybe required to work overtime and non-business hours
Safe and effective implementation of vector surveillance and control protocols
Epidemiology of mosquito- and tick-borne diseases and related public health risks
Sample preparation, use of diagnostic molecular and/or biochemical assays, and troubleshooting issues
Accurate recordkeeping and data management of surveillance, testing, and experimental activities
Experimental design, standardized data collection, and statistical analysis
Team leadership, planning and coordination of activities
Manage multiple changing priorities and meet deadlines
Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills to engage and inform diverse audiences
Analyze and interpret data; prepare clear reports

Nice To Haves

Foster trust and accountability within a team
Apply biological and ecological principles to monitor programs
Interpret program objectives, work independently and collaboratively
Safety practices and regulatory compliance, especially in pesticide application
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams)
Proficiency with mapping and spatial data management software (QGIS preferred)
Riding a bicycle while adhering to traffic laws
Bicycle maintenance

Responsibilities

Facilitate and troubleshoot in-house pathogen testing
Coordinate and prioritize vector projects
Active participation in surveillance and control operations, including bicycle-based treatment programs
Assist in vector-borne disease investigations
Support the Quality Assurance program in evaluation of control product efficacy and resistance
Conduct scientific research projects and perform related laboratory and field work
Maintain accurate and organized records; prepare technical summaries and reports
Participate in public education and outreach activities to promote awareness and prevention
Collaborate with Field Services to coordinate prevention programs and respond to vector and vector-borne disease outbreaks under the guidance of the Vector Ecologist
Coordinate bicycle-based treatment program
Conduct laboratory pathogen testing using molecular and biochemical protocols (e.g., RAMP, ELISA, WB, PCR/RT-PCR); troubleshoot assays as needed
Assist in implementing and managing entomology department research projects
Assist in evaluating new technologies or protocols for vector surveillance and control
Assist in rearing and managing mosquito colonies for identification and resistance testing
Verify efficacy of control products through laboratory and field trials
Ensure accuracy, completeness, and integrity of vector surveillance data within MMCD's data management system
Ensure accuracy, completeness, and integrity of MMCD's mapping data
Assist in preparing technical reports, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs),grant applications, and compliance documentation
Represent the District in interagency meetings, conferences, and community engagement events as needed
Implement strategies to protect public health from vector-borne diseases and nuisance pests in an environmentally conscious manner
Assist in hiring, training, and coordinating seasonal staff
Plan, prioritize, and organize tasks; establish timelines; monitor progress; and optimize/maintain resources to achieve organizational goals
Follow established safety procedures in all field and laboratory activities.
Identify potential risks, assess safety protocols, and provide recommendations for safety guideline updates as necessary.
Actively contribute to District’s culture of safety