ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II

ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II

This is a professional position responsible for the protection of the health and value of agricultural resources and industries threatened by plant pests and disease within the state of Florida. This position conducts independent site inspections for the purpose of detecting, delimiting, sampling and the treatment or mitigation of introductions of invasive and economically important pests. Surveys areas of high-risk for new infestations, identifies pathways and areas of high-risk and conducts appropriate regulatory, and control actions to eradicate new pests from the environment. Conducts field diagnostic tasks using approved sampling methods and equipment to collect, prepare and submit insects, other arthropods, plants, and plant disease to the appropriate diagnostic laboratory for identification. Surveys will be conducted in agricultural, marinas, ports (sea and air), and residential environs and businesses. Inspects plant material (cut flowers, nursery stock), and other high-risk commodities (imported tile, containers or wooden pallets) from other states and foreign countries for the purpose of excluding plant pests at various points of entry throughout the state. Responsible for communicating program activities to the entities being surveyed. Responsible for the calibration of equipment, mixing and application of pesticides, herbicides, insecticides and other treatments as required per the labeling requirements. The operation of tractors, spray rigs, herbicide booms and other related machinery or equipment. Inspects vehicles and equipment on a weekly basis and reports any issues or deficiencies with the supervisor and to take corrective action in a timely manner. This includes competing and submitting their equipment and vehicle checklists in a timely manner. Responsible for maintaining spray and treatment records at each site they are treating and would include observing treatments and any other activities that are being conducted by contractors working on behalf of the Department. Reporting of accidental spills to supervision and ensures that cleanup is in accordance to the label along with the proper disposal of empty chemical containers. All equipment will be cleaned after use, and all chemicals will be properly stored in a secure location. Maintains proper records of all functions and submits timely and accurate reports of all work performed. Assists and/or participates in the organization of special programs such as plant pest eradication projects, exotic pest surveys and protocols within the state, including implementing chemical and biological controls, surveys, and regulatory enforcement actions. These activities may necessitate absences from assigned headquarters, unusual working hours, and may require serving as a trainer for employees hired for these special programs. Educate the public about potential agricultural impacts and health issues associated with pests and elicit assistance in reporting pest presence. Attends meetings and workshops to learn of emerging pests, surveying techniques, and control. Conducts plant pest detection surveys in agricultural and residential environs, to include but not limited to McPhail and Jackson traps. Places and services fruit fly detection devices in accordance with the Florida Fruit Fly Detection Manual. Performs related work as directed by management.

Knowledge of techniques used in inspecting plants or other agricultural products. Knowledge of the regulatory treatments of plants and pesticide labeling restrictions. Knowledge of maintaining and repair various spray equipment or tanks. Skill in conflict resolution. Skill in computer basics including Microsoft Word, Excel, Esri/GIS products, and GPS devices. Ability to recognize Giant African land snail and other snails or slugs of economic importance. Ability to detect plant pests. Ability to compile, organize and analyze data and make recommendations. Ability to determine work priorities, assign work and follow up on completion of work. Ability to interpret rules and regulations. Ability to work independently. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing. Ability to interact with other employees and the public in a professional and courteous manner. Ability to work in hot, cold, wet or humid environments. Ability to lift and transport 50 pounds and bend repetitiously. Ability to conduct inspections in natural and cultivated areas with uneven ground. Ability to tow and haul trailers and equipment safely down the road.

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package for employees features a highly competitive set of employee benefits including: Annual and Sick Leave benefits; Nine paid holidays and one Personal holiday each year; State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision and other supplemental insurance options; Retirement plan options, including employer contributions (For more information, please visit ;) Flexible Spending Accounts; Tuition waivers; And more! For a complete list of benefits, visit . For an estimate of the total compensation package for this position, please visit the "Total Compensation Estimator Tool" located above under the "Posting Closing Date."

Location: WINTER HAVEN, FL, US, 33831 WINTER HAVEN, FL, US, 33880 WINTER HAVEN, FL, US, 33881 WINTER HAVEN, FL, US, 33884