Noxious Weed Inspector

Noxious Weed Control Inspector

This is a seasonal, extra help position with the Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board. The Noxious Weed Control Inspector is responsible for identifying noxious weeds, collecting data, communicating with landowners, prescribing control methods, handling, and applying herbicides, documenting treatments, attending educational events, participating in workshops, and training courses, following the rules and regulations set by the Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board and Mason County Policy, working with partner organizations, and organizing educational and volunteer events. This position is based on a 20-30-hour workweek and works approximately 5 months. No medical, dental, vision or life insurance benefits are offered. The employee is required to contribute to the WA State Retirement System.

Essential functions include:

• Conducts field inspections and surveys utilizing GPS/GIS for noxious weeds within the county boundaries to assist with noxious weed control enforcement according to 17.10 RCW, while keeping accurate records of all property visits and survey data.
• Recommends integrated pest management (IPM) control methods to the public.
• Walks, hikes, and works in various physically challenging and hazardous terrains and weather.
• Participates directly in weed control activities, including the use of herbicides and physical removal.
• Manages routine activities and assures timely completion of work.
• Represents the program at community events and answer questions and concerns from the public.
• Complies with program rules and county policies.
• Maintains workplace and vehicles in a clean and organized manner.
• May assist with planning projects and writing reports.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficient with Microsoft applications, including Word and Excel (PowerPoint and Publisher desirable.)
• Ability to facilitate conflict resolution in a respectful manner.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently with limited supervision and make sound judgments.
• Must be a self-starter with good organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate ideas clearly and establish professional relationships with partner agencies and the public.
• The ability to handle job stress and interact effectively with others in the workplace and the public.
• Able to occasionally adjust work hours to evenings and weekends if necessary due to the nature of the work and the program's needs.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Possess and maintain a valid Washington Driver's License and safe driving record.
• Must have experience working with noxious weeds or invasive plant species, or knowledge of plant life cycles or IPM strategies.
• Comfortable working with herbicides: reading labels, properly mixing, and applying herbicides.
• Possess, or obtain within 60 days from initial employment, a Washington State Pesticide Public Operators License and the necessary endorsements on the license as required by law.