New Job Pesticide Regulatory Officer I In West Virginia

Job Title: Pesticide Regulatory Officer I
Division: Regulatory & Environmental Affairs Division
Pesticide Regulatory Programs Unit
Headquarters: Teays Valley/Hurricane, WV
FLSA Status: Non - Exempt

Nature of Work: Ensures compliance with state and federal laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the application and use of all types of pesticides. The incumbent regulates the use and application of these pesticides to protect the public and environment from unsafe and ineffective pesticides and pesticide application practices. Work is performed under general supervision.

Examples of Work:

• Conducts inspections of business establishments to check the proper sale and distribution of pesticides.
• The agency conducts inspections of records kept by private and commercial pesticide applicators.
• On-site investigations and review of pesticide use. '
• Investigates complaints of misuse of pesticides.
• The pesticide sample is collected for laboratory analysis and label review.
• Monitors experimental use permits.
• Inspects licensed pest control operators and equipment.
• Assists in certification workshops by giving presentations on laws, regulations and proper use of pesticides.
• Assists in administering certification exams.
• Conducts integrated pest management inspections with school and child care facilities.
• The EPA will perform standard worker protection and training as needed.
• As required, he performs related and other work.
• Assists with pesticide container recycling and waste pesticide inventory collection.

Working Conditions:
Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods of time; frequently bend, squat, reach above shoulder level, push, pull and handle objects and capable of lifting up to 50 pounds.
Includes outside work with possible exposure to poison ivy and insect bites/stings and exposure to inclement weather.
Ability to crawl into attics and crawl spaces, wear personal protective equipment, be fit tested and wear a respirator.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• The complete knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry; bacteriology and related microbiology.
• States and federal laws, rules, and regulations concerning the safe use of pesticides.
• The knowledge of proper investigative techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of requirements for licensing under the pesticide laws.
• Can use any computer, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Can use safety equipment properly. Must be tested for fit.?
• Ability to collect and store samples safely.
• Can express ideas clearly, both in writing and in person.
• Ability to prepare reports.
• Ability to organise work and carry out assignments.
• Ability to maintain and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, officials, and regulated groups and the general public.
• Willingness to travel within an assigned area of the state is anticipated that this position will involve about 70 per cent of travel status.

Qualifications:
Training: Education equivalent to graduation from an accredited 4-year college with a degree in agriculture, entomology, the biological sciences, criminal justice or related field.
Experience: Two years' experience in a field closely related to the areas of assignment, such as agriculture, investigation or responsible public contact work is desirable.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver's license
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug testing.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
• The commissioner must maintain a positive image of the state, the Department of Agriculture, and the people of West Virginia.

This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner and designees.
West Virginia Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer