Agricultural Program Assistant - Extra-Help

Position Information Bring your agricultural passion to the County of Sonoma and apply to be an Extra-Help Agricultural Program Assistant! Several positions available! Salary starting at $28.55/hour! The Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures is mandated to promote and protect agriculture, the environment, and public welfare by enforcing local, state, and federal laws and regulations. One of the department’s primary responsibilities is preventing the establishment of non-native pests that are harmful to our agriculture and the environment. Additional responsibilities include environmental protection and worker health and safety, which are accomplished through enforcing pesticide laws and regulations and agricultural hazardous materials programs. Agricultural Program Assistants are an integral part of the Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures Pest Detection Trapping Program. They place and service insect traps that are used to collect data, identify insects, and detect the presence of invasive pests during the trapping season, which could last through October 2026. Work is performed outside in all weather conditions and may include walking on uneven terrain. Operating a vehicle safely in all weather conditions, both on and off road, and in rural and urban areas, is critical for these positions. Ideal Candidates Ideal candidates for these positions will possess a valid California driver’s license and many of the following: Agricultural or entomology experience and/or relevant coursework A keen sense of safety awareness The ability to work independently and as part of a team Excellent attention to detail, strong customer service skills, and a passion for serving the community Basic Microsoft Office, data entry, and computer skills Employment Type Extra-help employees relieve or augment permanent staff. Temporary, extra-help employees are not in the classified civil service and do not have property rights to permanently allocated positions. They do not receive most employee benefits such as long‑term disability insurance coverage; accrual of vacation; participation in the County retirement program; or eligibility to take promotional examinations. Temporary, extra-help employees are limited in their employment to a maximum of one calendar year. These employees must be off of work for three months before they can be re‑employed on an extra help basis. Extra‑help employees who meet the eligibility requirements may qualify for a County contribution toward medical coverage. Minimum Qualifications Experience: Any combination of paid or volunteer work experience which would provide the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and ability stated herein. Normally, college internships, special agricultural projects and related tasks would provide such an opportunity. Education: Any combination of coursework or training including on‑the‑job training which would provide the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities stated herein. Normally, course work or training in the natural sciences, statistics and related subjects would provide such an opportunity. License: Possession of a valid driver’s license. The positions advertised on this announcement do require possession of a valid California Driver’s License. Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Knowledge of: the methods of planting, growing, treating and harvesting agricultural crops; methods of controlling noxious weeds; the use of pesticides and other chemicals; a variety of audio‑visual aides; possible computer applications to agricultural projects. Ability to: learn to operate and maintain equipment and vehicles associated with cultivation of test plots, weed eradication and related tasks; operate vehicles and equipment in a manner determined to be safe by department policy and rules of regulatory agencies; communicate orally or in writing; develop effective working relationships between peers, supervisors, elected officials, community representatives, members of the public, and others who have an interest in Sonoma County agriculture; learn to perform basic research associated with agricultural projects; and learn to operate a computer and use common software. Background Investigation A background investigation is required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to candidates. Additional Requirements Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position. Equal Opportunity The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need. #J-18808-Ljbffr