Agricultural Biologist - Inspector I/II/III

Description i. Under supervision, learn methods and procedures, make inspections, enforce laws and regulations pertaining to the California Food and Agricultural Code, Business and Professions Code, the California Code of Regulation, and other pertinent rules. Perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments, inspect and test weighing and measuring devices, verify consumer transactions and product quality, and do related work as required. ii. Under general direction, make inspections and enforce laws and regulations, perform pest prevention and pesticide regulation assignments, inspect and test weighing and measuring devices, verify consumer transactions and product quality, and do related work as required. iii. Under general direction, coordinate, oversee, and perform inspections and enforcement of laws and regulations, including pest prevention, pesticide regulation, and weighing and measuring device inspection. Verify consumer transactions, perform product quality checks, and conduct related work as required. Distinguishing Characteristics i. Entry-level; works under close supervision until licensed. Distinct from Agricultural Biologist/Inspector II which performs broader assignments with less supervision. ii. First experienced level; expected to be licensed in at least three of the eight fields required for agricultural and weights-and-measures inspection and enforcement. iii. Journey level; expected to perform in multiple inspection and enforcement areas, possibly leading Department programs. Requires at least five of the eight states-licensed fields. Reports To Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer or Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer Classifications Supervised i/ii. This is not a supervisory class. iii. Provides lead direction and work coordination for Agricultural Biologist/Inspector I, II, and Agricultural Technician. Typical Physical Requirements Sit for extended periods; stand and walk frequently; walk on uneven or slippery terrain; lift up to 50 lbs.; use office equipment (computer, telephone, calculator, copier, FAX); good hearing and vision; verbal communication; mobility including crawling, climbing, stooping, crouching, and kneeling. Typical Working Conditions The work is performed in office, outdoor, and driving environments; some assignments alone in remote locations; varying temperatures; exposure to dust, pesticides, chemicals, gases; continuous contact with staff and the public. Example of Duties i. Learn methods, procedures, and policies; inspect fruits, nuts, vegetables, honey, eggs, or other agricultural commodities for compliance; issue certificates of inspection; order reconditioning or destruction of produce below standards; inspect nurseries for pests and diseases; inspect plant shipments for disease or weeds; inspect transported commodities; inspect pesticide application; inspect apiaries; examine fields, orchards, roadways for pests or diseases. Control and eradicate pests; certify or specify treatment of agricultural products for movement or shipment; inspect seeds for weed seeds; inspect, test, and seal commercial weighing and measuring devices; check accuracy of packaged commodity weights and labels; investigate weighmaster licenses; collect petroleum product samples; investigate consumer transaction complaints; prepare records and reports; take enforcement actions; maintain equipment; provide growers and homeowners with information; gather data for annual crop reports; represent the Department to the public and other agencies. ii. Perform inspections of commodities, nursery inspections, plant shipment inspections; issue certificates; order reconditioning or destruction; issue pesticide permits; inspect pesticide application; inspect apiaries; examine fields and roadways; control and eradicate pests; certify or specify treatment for movement; inspect seeds; inspect, test, and seal commercial weighing and measuring devices; weigh, measure, and count packaged commodities; investigate weighmaster licenses; collect petroleum samples; investigate consumer complaints; prepare records and reports; take enforcement actions; maintain equipment; provide information to growers and homeowners; gather data; represent the Department. iii. Plan and coordinate inspection, enforcement, and control work including quarantine, pesticide, rodent, weed, bird control, nursery and apiary inspection, and weights-and-measures enforcement; coordinate with other departments; assist with agriculture department goals and priorities; provide training; perform extensive inspection and enforcement duties; prepare reports; investigate complaints and fraud; enforce pesticide regulations; conduct hearings; assist public with pest control; issue permits; gather data and prepare reports; inspect, test, and seal devices; verify weight and labeling; review weighmaster certificates; test electric meters; collect samples; file formal complaints; represent the Department. Minimum Qualifications Any combination of training and experience likely to provide required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities is completion of advanced educational training in biological and agricultural sciences with courses in mathematics and physics per California licensing requirements. Special Requirements Possession of a valid class C California Driver's License. At least two valid CDFA licenses (Pesticide Regulation, Pest Prevention, Weight Verification). Appointment may be provisional; failure to obtain within 12 months may result in termination. At least two years of inspection and enforcement experience comparable to Amateur Biologist/Inspector I. For higher levels: at least three valid CDFA licenses including Pesticide Regulation, Pest Prevention, and Weight Verification; for the III level: at least five valid licenses, with at least three among the required set and two from the additional options (Investigation, Integrated Pest Management, Commodity Regulation, Measurement Verification, Transaction Verification); plus a Federal Cooperator's License for phytosanitary certification. Knowledge Of Functions and responsibilities of the County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Statistical testing methods and procedures. Agricultural practices and crops pertinent to San Benito County. Pest and noxious weed control methods. Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations related to weights and measures. Enforcement powers, procedures, and policies of the Agriculture Department. Proper inspection methods and procedures. Principles of program development, implementation, and coordination (for III level). Ability To Learn and perform inspection and enforcement work. Use and apply various inspection methods and techniques. Analyze, interpret, and apply regulations. Gather and maintain crop information. Perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately. Communicate orally and in writing. Enforce regulations with firmness and tact. Prepare clear and concise reports. Represent the Department professionally. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. Plan, develop, coordinate, and be responsible for assigned inspection areas (III level). Provide advice on acceptable practices. Perform hearing and examination duties as delegated (III level). Supplemental Information The contents of this class specification are not a warranty, guarantee, or contract of employment. The county assumes no responsibility beyond general accuracy, and information may be modified or revoked without notice. Terms and conditions are determined through a meet and confer process and are subject to the current memorandum of understanding. San Benito County Benefits Employees in regular, full-time positions are eligible for the following benefits:

• Pay Day: bi-weekly.
• Insurance Deductions: bi-monthly (first two pay periods of the month); retirement deferrals bi-weekly.
• Vacation: progressive accrual based on years of service.
• Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating).
• Sick Leave: 15 days per year.
• Health Plan: comprehensive medical and dental for full-time employees.
• Vision Plan: MES Vision Plan for full-time employees.
• Employee Assistance Program: up to 3 hours of counseling per six-month period.
• Life Insurance/AD&D: basic policy plus optional plans.
• Disability Insurance: State Disability Insurance for selected groups.
• Credit Union: membership in Santa Clara Federal Credit Union.
• Deferred Compensation: 457 retirement plans.
• Retirement: CalPERS enrollment per public employees' retirement law.
• Supplemental Insurance: AFLAC plans for accident, disability, cancer, etc.
• Flexible Spending Account: pre-tax cafeteria plan.
• Tuition Reimbursement: available to employees.