Apiary Inspector 1 - Western NY

Apiary Inspector 1 Division of Plant Industry, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Locations: Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, or Wyoming County. Position type: Full-time, Temporary and Seasonal (April 1 – November 30). Responsibilities Travel extensively within assigned region to inspect honeybee colonies and ensure compliance with state laws. Identify brood and adult bee disease symptoms and collect samples for laboratory confirmation. Communicate inspection findings and recommended disease prevention, treatment, and control measures to beekeepers. Issue quarantine orders to prevent movement of exotic pests or diseased colonies. Investigate beekeeper complaints as directed by the Albany office. Maintain daily reports, inspection records, and travel expense documentation. Use GPS and mapping software to locate apiaries and utilize company technology (cellphone, tablet, laptop, printer). Plan and organize work independently based on priority, risk, and location. Uphold policies and procedures set by the Division of Plant Industry and NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. Enforce New York laws related to bee diseases, bee sales, and interstate transportation of bees. Qualifications Four years of experience managing honeybee colonies, or completion of one season as an Apiary Inspector Trainee 1 and one season as an Apiary Inspector Trainee 2, with a minimum of 60 working days each season. Alternative: possession of 60 college credits, with at least 9 in entomology, ecology, biology, agriculture, environmental studies, natural resources, or zoology, may substitute for experience. Preferred: knowledge of bee behavior, colony management practices, beekeeping equipment, and bee disease symptoms. Proficiency with beekeeping equipment, including opening colonies and removing or replacing combs without harming the queen. Basic knowledge of larva and adult bee diseases and their life history. Willingness to accept instruction, direction, and training. Familiarity with department technology such as iPhone, iPad, and computers. Physically able to bend, reach, and lift 60–80 pounds many times throughout the workday. Available to relocate within New York State for limited periods during emergencies. Hourly salary: $25.74. Benefits Health insurance options (inexpensive coverage). Free dental and vision coverage. Eligibility for NYS Pension Plan membership. Travel Requirements Positions require extensive travel within the assigned area. Appointees must possess a valid driver’s license and access to a motor vehicle, or otherwise demonstrate ability to meet transportation requirements in carrying out field work responsibilities. Equal Opportunity Statement The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The department is committed to providing equal employment opportunity, and reasonable accommodations and modifications as necessary, for qualified persons with disabilities. If you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please visit #J-18808-Ljbffr NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets