ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I BIO SCIENCE (Mosquito Control Program - Internal Only)

Overview The Maryland Department of Agriculture is a department under Maryland's Executive Branch. Formed in 1972 by the Maryland General Assembly to address the agriculture needs for the State of Maryland, the Department oversees and serves as a regulatory body for animal health and consumer services to include marketing and lab services, plant and pest management and resource conservation. The Mosquito Control Program provides a direct service to approximately 2,100 communities in 16 Maryland counties. The primary goal of this program is to prevent the occurrence of mosquito-borne disease in humans, pets and livestock. Mosquito control is an economic necessity in parts of Maryland dependent on outdoor tourism during the summer. The program relies on surveys and monitoring of larval and adult mosquito populations to coordinate control activities. Control techniques include breeding source reduction, public education, biological control and insecticide applications from aircraft or ground equipment. This position is only open to current employees of the Mosquito Control Program. Location: MDA Headquarters, 50 Harry S Truman Pkwy, Annapolis, MD 21401 Main Purpose of Job The primary purpose of this position is to implement and manage modern, science-based Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) programs within Anne Arundel County and other assigned jurisdictions to protect public health and enhance quality of life. The incumbent is responsible for the comprehensive maintenance, testing, and calibration of all specialized equipment, ensuring the agency remains mission-ready for rapid intervention. This role also provides critical support to the Program Manager in large-scale nuisance insect initiatives, including the Black Fly suppression program in Northern Maryland and Midge control operations in Baltimore County and the Chesapeake Bay. By bridging technical field operations with equipment oversight, this position supports the agency’s mission to provide environmentally responsible and data-driven pest management services to Maryland citizens. Position Duties Vector Surveillance and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Operations Independently conducts larval mosquito surveillance and control operations. Evaluates aquatic habitats to determine the appropriate application of biological control agents and pesticides, ensuring minimal impact on non-target species. Interprets and applies complex federal and state mandates, including FIFRA, the Clean Water Act, and NPDES/PDMP requirements. Conducts pre-treatment surveys and rigorous post-treatment inspections to analyze pesticide efficacy and monitor for adverse environmental effects. Utilizes ESRI GIS applications to perform spatial analysis and create precision maps of treatment areas, ensuring accurate tracking of ecological data and intervention sites. Partners with Public Works to implement cultural control methods, such as modifying stormwater management systems to eliminate breeding habitats through improved drainage. Provides technical training and field supervision for seasonal personnel, ensuring adherence to biosafety protocols and application standards. Nuisance Insect Program Management & Coordination Assists the Program Manager in executing specialized control programs for Blackflies (Simuliidae) and Midges (Chironomidae) across diverse Maryland ecosystems. Collaborates with departmental scientists to research and determine optimal biological and chemical control strategies for midge populations in sensitive estuarine environments. Coordinates the logistics of aerial application contracts, including timing and site selection based on larval population density assessments. Manages the application process for pesticide discharge permits through the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), ensuring all regional operations are fully permitted and legally compliant. Technical Logistics and Fleet Management Oversees the calibration, maintenance, and winterization of specialized spray equipment and high-tech vector control vehicles to ensure operational readiness and safety compliance. Ensures all equipment functions within calibrated parameters to maintain precise application rates, preventing environmental over-exposure and ensuring fiscal responsibility. Resource Procurement and Efficacy Analysis Evaluates the technical efficacy of various insecticides and biological agents, providing data-driven recommendations for procurement based on resistance patterns and environmental safety. Manages the chemical inventory for multi-county operations, ensuring proper storage according to hazardous material protocols. Acts as a technical liaison for neighboring counties, coordinating the purchase and strategic distribution of pesticides to ensure regional consistency in vector management. Minimum Qualifications Education: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in biology, biochemistry, zoology, botany, animal science, wildlife management, or related biological science field. Experience: None. Note: Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Environmental Engineering and Natural Resources classifications or related fields on a year-for-year basis for the required education. Desired or Preferred Qualifications Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following qualifications. Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications. Experience surveying and treating for Black Flies. Limitations on Selection This position is only open to current employees of the Mosquito Control Program. Licenses, Registrations and Certifications Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle operator’s license valid in Maryland may be required. Special Requirements Some positions in this classification require medical examination after an offer of employment to certify ability to perform essential job functions. Selection Process Please provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications. All information must be submitted by the closing date. Candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible list for at least one year. Examination Process The assessment may consist of a rating of education, training, and experience related to the position. Provide complete and accurate information on your application. Bargaining Unit Status G Benefits State of Maryland Benefits Further Instructions Online applications are strongly preferred. If you cannot apply online, you may mail a paper application to Maryland Department of Agriculture Human Resource Office, Room 304, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401. If submitting additional information, upload online if possible. If you cannot upload, you may mail, hand-deliver or fax (HR Fax # View phone number on click.appcast.io). All paper applications must be received by the closing date. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing the online or paper application. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Veterans are appreciated. TTY users: Maryland Relay. Questions: Kathleen Newhouse, View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Maryland