Salary : $45,732.00 - $61,404.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2025-01822
Department: Dept. of Agriculture
Division: Plant Protection - Plant Services
Opening Date: 03/12/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
DescriptionAGRICULTURE - A Cornerstone of Washington's EconomyThe Washington State Department of Agriculture has been serving the state for more than 100 years. Through service, regulation, and advocacy, we keep agriculture viable and vital in Washington State, while protecting consumers, public health, and the environment. We work extensively with farmers and ranchers, but our responsibilities - from ensuring food safety to environmental protection - touch the lives of millions of people locally, nationally, and abroad.
The agency includes 780 employees approximately and grows close to 1,000 employees at the peak of seasonal work. To learn more and view additional openings, please visit our Employment Page.
The
Pest Program conducts surveys, diagnostics and control activities for pests and diseases of important agricultural commodities throughout Washington State. Pest Program employees conduct surveys for northern giant hornet, Japanese beetle, spongy moth, apple maggot, Phytophthora ramorum, Spartina and other invasive insect pests, diseases, and noxious weeds. Some employees work in the Plant Pest and Molecular Diagnostics Lab, or the Entomology labs in Olympia or Yakima to provide diagnostics of survey samples. Others assist with control and eradication efforts for northern, giant hornet, Japanese beetle, spongy moth, invasive snails, Spartina and knotweed. Regardless of the threat, Pest Program employees use cutting edge technology, scientific processes, and teamwork to protect some of Washington's most valuable agricultural crops.
The
Pest Biologist 1 serves as the primary screening taxonomist for assigned projects which is critical for successful detection of survey targets WSDA's Exotic Wood Boring Insect and Bark Beetle Survey. This survey utilizes traps and visual detection surveys to facilitate early detection of nonnative insects generally associated with wood packing materials and other forest products. The Pest Biologist I position also assists with detection and delimitation surveys of nonnative terrestrial molluscs (land snails and slugs) of regulatory concern. This position supports the program's mission by supervising non-permanent field staff to accomplish the goal of the project during survey season.
During the field season work is conducted at the assigned duty station and in the field. Inclement weather, extreme heat, exposure to wildfire smoke and exposure to chemical compounds in insect lures are common hazards in the field. Field work often occurs in urban and industrial landscapes associated with high priority points of entry and transportation such as marine ports, railyards, and distribution centers. Much of the time will be spent in the state assigned vehicle traveling to survey sites and meeting with employees and stakeholders. During the winter months, work is conducted mostly at the assigned duty station with the option to telework for certain tasks with supervisor approval.
The Pest Biologist 1 position is located in Tumwater, WA and is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees.
Duties Include, but not limited to:Taxonomic screening and data management
- Perform screening and identification of trap captures of wood boring insects and other survey targets (Cerambycidae, Buprestidae, Siricidae, Scolytinae, and Platypodinae).
- Identify local and survey target species of land snail and slug from specimen photographs and/or dissections.
- Enter trap capture data into a shared database accurately and organizationally.
- Submit suspect target specimens to national identifying services.
- Communicate with Pest Biologist 2 and Managing Entomologist promptly regarding the identification of suspect survey targets during screening.
- Develop a working understanding of the natural histories of survey target specimens and regional non-target species encountered during trapping.
- Enter, manage, and maintain accurate and organized field data and specimen collections using Microsoft Office, GIS software, and field collection apps such as Field Maps and Survey123.
Field Work - trapping and visual surveys- Establish and maintain trap sites according to specified protocols within assigned areas during the field season.
- Conduct visual surveys for target species in high-likelihood areas of introduction and corridors of spread for survey target species.
- Collect and maintain accurate field records and specimen collections.
Survey support & direct supervision of non-permanent staff- Train non-permanent field staff in trapping, visual survey, and data collection duties.
- Ensure staff are maintaining appropriate protocols for trapping, visual survey, data collection, and other assigned activities.
Qualifications Who should apply?Professionals with:
- A Bachelor's degree involving major study in a biological science or closely allied field.
- Two (2) years of experience in detection, survey, control or eradication of pest or invasive species
OR- Equivalent education and/or experience.
AND- Valid driver's license necessary to operate a motor vehicle while conducting agency business.
- Current TWIC authorization and WSDA Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to receive these certifications upon hire is required).
Preferred/Desired:- Professional taxonomy experience with wood boring insects and terrestrial mollusks or other invertebrates, including the use of dichotomous keys.
- Experience conducting insect trapping and/or forest health surveys.
- The ability to identify regional trees in both natural and urban forest settings.
- Experience using Microsoft Office and GIS software.
Supplemental InformationEmployee Benefits- A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules, and teleworking.
- WSDA provides an excellent benefits package beyond traditional benefits. State employment offers Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave; click here for more information.
- 12 paid Holidays & Vacation and Leave Accruals.
- All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required will be provided by the agency.
- Commute Trip Reduction Program.
For more information about the Washington State Department of Agriculture, visit us at www.agr.wa.gov.
How to apply: You must complete your careers.wa.gov profile and answer the supplemental questions. In addition to completing the online application, and supplemental questions applicants must attach the following documents to their profile to be considered for this position:
• Current resume detailing experience and education• A cover letter describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position.• Three professional references By submitting these materials, you are indicating that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Any untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from the applicant pool or dismissal if employed.
Applications with comments "see attachments" will be considered incomplete. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email .
The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified, and documentation may be required. Applications received via e-mail will not be accepted in lieu of applying through the state's on-line recruitment system.
Equity at WSDA The Department of Agriculture recognizes, appreciates, supports, embraces, and respects all cultural identities and backgrounds while we collaborate in authentic ways. We hire amazing people that share in the commitment to our Pro-Equity Anti-Racist (PEAR) strategic plan, our Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act implementation plan, and our unique needs and desires for belonging, respect, and inclusion. We value the growth and development of our team members by providing equitable access to resources and opportunities for continuous learning, improvement, and advancement.
We strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a productive and dedicated workforce that reflects the communities we serve while we are committed to a workplace that celebrates our differences and supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Contact UsShould you have any questions regarding this position or the online application, contact the Human Resource Office at Prior to a new appointment into the Department of Agriculture, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position. The Human Resources Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
Veteran's Preference: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security numbers. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible,
Persons with a disability, who need assistance with their application or need this announcement in an alternative format, may call 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.
More than Just a Paycheck!Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance BenefitsEmployees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred CompensationState Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social SecurityAll state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan ForgivenessIf you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for
exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military LeaveWashington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
How did you hear about this opportunity?
02
To be considered for this position you must attach a resume, cover letter and three professional references. Have you attached or included the required documents to your application?
03
Do you have a Bachelor's degree involving major study in a biological science or closely allied field?
- Yes
- No, but I have an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
- No
04
Do you have two (2) years of experience in detection, survey, control or eradication of pest or invasive species?
05
Do you have a current TWIC authorization and WSDA Pesticide Applicator License or the ability to receive these certifications upon hire as required?
06
Are you able to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license prior to the first day of employment?
07
Do you have professional taxonomy experience with wood boring insects and terrestrial mollusks or other invertebrates, including the use of dichotomous keys?
Required Question
