POSITION TITLE: Agricultural Specialist I
DEPARTMENT: Citrus Program - Biocontrol
LOCATION: Cal Poly, Pomona, CA`
REPORTS TO: Program Manager
FLSA STATUS: Full-time, Temporary, Non-Exempt
COMPENSATION: $16.77 - $20.38 Hr. Pay Rate
The Cooperative Agricultural Support Services (CASS) is a Joint Powers Authority that was originally formed as a partnership between the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the Counties of Yolo and Trinity. Since then CASS’ services have expanded throughout California to support the agricultural industry and the consumers of its products by providing human resources and administrative support services. CASS’ program activities include agricultural inspection, pest prevention and other programs administered by CDFA, county agricultural commissioners, and other public agencies. Our current work includes:
• Agricultural Commodity Grading Program
• Grading using County, State and Federal standards
• Emergency Pest Detection Trapping and Survey program
• Professional Develop and Educational Training
We are seeking an enthusiastic Agricultural Specialist I to join our Citrus Program Team. This position reports directly to the Program Manager.
Under the close direction of CASS staff and technical direction from the Citrus Program, the Agricultural Specialist I participate in carrying out Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP) biological control activities for the ACP Program by rearing and releasing biocontrol agents in support of plant pest detection programs. The incumbent in this position provides program support by performing various plant pest field work while conforming to federal, state, Citrus Program and CASS policies in carrying out work activities.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Under direct supervision, propagates, and maintains plants, cultures insects, and assists with routine greenhouse maintenance
• Accurately documents and compiles completed work.
• Assists in management of data.
• Sets ups field cages, monitors insect populations in cages and nearby
• vegetation, releases biocontrol agents into cages.
• Safely operates and maintains a motor vehicle to travel to designated work areas.
• Follows established protocols for trapping, survey or eradication work.
• Cleans, repairs, and stores all equipment daily.
• Assists with laboratory duties.
• Cleans work areas.
• Assists in organizing supplies and equipment for coordination of workload.
• Miscellaneous duties that provide project support.
• Briefly answer questions about survey and pest detection projects and/or refer the questioner to the appropriate individual for intormtion.
• Interact with the public in a courteous and professional manner.
• Assist with the transport of vehicles to service or storage facilities. Perform daily vehicle safety and fluid level checks. Clean vehicle interior and truck bed of debris.
• Clean, repair and store all equipment daily. Notify team lead or supervisor when equipment needs repair or replacement.
• Attendance, punctuality, and dependability are essential to this position.
• Other duties as assigned.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:
• High School Diploma, Bachelors in Biological Sciences, Environmental Science or related field preferred.
• Valid Driver's License with safe driving record
• Ability to adapt to a flexible work environment
• Self-Starter and proactive
• Excellent Oral and Written Communication skills
• Excellent Time Management and Organizational skills
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:
• This position requires travel, including overnight and extended stays.
• Assumes responsibility for doing assigned work and meeting deadlines.
• Demonstrates an awareness of and sensitivity to clients including cultural and ethical beliefs; and implements care in a thorough, skillful, consistent and continuous manner.
• Attends work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absences and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to supervisor with respect to time-off requests.
• Performs other duties, as necessary.
BENEFITS
• Benefits package including medical benefits, matching retirement contributions, and annual and holiday leave.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The incumbent in this position will be required, with or without reasonable accommodation, to operate a desktop computer using a keyboard and mouse; employ repetitive arm and wrist motions; occasionally bend, stoop, twist, reach; and, lift file or supply boxes of up to twenty-five pounds.