Agricultural Field Assistant

DEFINITION

To assist in conducting pest detection insect trapping programs as directed and the pest management noxious weed program. Employees in this classification receive general supervision within a framework of well-defined policies and procedures. This job class exercises responsibility for the placement, care, and related reports of all insect traps.

Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, Deputy Commissioner/Sealer, Sr. Agricultural & Standards Inspector, Agricultural & Standards Inspector II/III.

• Deploys, services, rotates, and removes insect traps.
• Maintains accurate records on insect traps, including location maps and service dates.
• Updates electronic records and generates computer reports.
• Maintains inventory of trapping supplies and equipment.
• Responds to inquiries from the public regarding pest detection programs and/or noxious weed program.
• Assists California Department of Food and Agriculture personnel in special surveys.
• Performs related duties as required.

High school graduation or GED.

Positions in this classification require possession of a valid California driver’s license for the class of vehicle and meeting the County’s automobile insurability requirements. Under certain circumstances, the Human Resources Director may accept a valid driver’s license from another state if the applicant acknowledges his/her intent to acquire a California Driver’s License within three (3) months by signing an acknowledgment form.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions pertaining to this or other essential functions of this classification.

• Pest detection insect trapping equipment, use, and operation.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances.
• GPS, compass, and map use.
• Safe work practices.

• Identify specific pests to be trapped, identify host materials, and noxious weeds to be treated.
• Conduct pest detection and management activities on uneven surfaces under various environmental conditions.
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Prepare clear, concise, and accurate records and reports.
• Prepare accurate maps marking trap locations and noxious weed locations.
• Establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Operate a personal computer and other office equipment.
• Effectively use standard word processing and spreadsheet applications.

Work is performed both in office and outdoor environments; exposure to cold, heat, noise, chemicals, dust, allergens, plant, animal, food material or water, petroleum products, explosive materials, mechanical hazards, and electrical hazards; some exposure to controlled and hazardous substances; some exposure to smoke, gases, and fumes; continuous contact with staff and the public.

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; walk, stand, or crouch on narrow, slippery, and erratically moving surfaces; stoop, crouch, squat, twist, kneel, climb, and bend to pick up or move heavy objects up to 50 lbs; mix and apply pesticides; crawl through various areas requiring moving on hands and knees; walk for long distances; walk on sloped ground/floor and uneven surfaces;

normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; ability to perform tasks requiring visual color discrimination; ability to detect odors and aromas; verbal communication; use of office equipment including computers, telephones, calculators, typewriters, copiers, and facsimile machine.