Salary: $23.66-$28.88 hourly / $4,115-$5,023 monthly /
Range: 5676
DEFINITION: Under direction, performs the widest variety
of agricultural inspections; trains other Agricultural Biologists in
the performance of inspections and related duties; and performs
related duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This is a flexibly-staffed
series. Agricultural Biologist III is the fully experienced class,
in which incumbents may perform in all fields of activity and may
train and act in a lead capacity.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: Independently performs and trains
other staff in the following tasks: conducts a variety of
inspections of agricultural products to ensure compliance with
regulations, and/or verify certificate requirements for
export/import and pest cleanliness; enforces regulations related to
pesticide use and storage, and worker health and safety; issues
permits and monitors applications of pesticides; registers
agricultural pest control operators and advisors; detects and
prevents the introduction of detrimental pests through examination,
surveys, trapping, sampling, and regulation of possible carriers;
controls and/or eradicates pest plants, insects, diseases, and
nematodes in accordance with approved procedures; advises landowners
regarding the control of common pests; inspects nurseries and
evaluates nursery license applications to determine compliance with
State requirements; investigates complaints related to agricultural
pesticides, certain pests, and violations of County, State, or
Federal laws; gathers and compiles evidence and prepares reports;
collects, prepares, and submits official samples required for the
enforcement or verification of various regulations; and obtains,
compiles, and disseminates statistical data on agricultural
commodities produced in the County; acts as leadworker over
subordinate staff assigned to specific projects, or assists other
staff with unusual or problem cases.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS: Possession of a
valid license in all five categories as a County Agricultural
Biologist, issued by the California Department of Food and
Agriculture, and:
-
Two years of increasingly responsible
experience as an agricultural biologist; or,
-
one year of experience performing duties
equivalent to the class of Agricultural Biologist II with Santa
Barbara County; or,
-
a combination of training, education, and
experience that is equivalent to one of the employment standards
listed above and that provides the required knowledge and
abilities.
Additional Requirements: Possession of a
valid California Class C Driver’s License
Knowledge of: basic chemistry to understand the properties
of pesticides; biological sciences, especially entomology and plant
pathology; appropriate controls for particular pests; inspection
methods; laws and regulations relating to agricultural inspection;
correct English usage.
Ability to: establish and maintain harmonious public
relations; enforce laws, rules, and regulations firmly, tactfully,
and impartially; interpret and apply the provisions of laws and
regulations relating to agricultural inspection; keep accurate
records; write clear, concise, and accurate reports; recognize
various plant products and pests; make effective oral presentations;
obtain cooperation from the public; lead, organize, and prioritize
the work of others; provide technical assistance to subordinate
staff.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: Performing the essential
functions of this job may require the incumbent to: work with and/or
around hazardous materials; perform lifting and bending; or be
exposed to unpleasant or hazardous conditions or substances in the
field, such as heat, dust, diesel exhaust, or chemicals.
