Pesticide Operations Specialist I

Agricultural Program Specialist I (NS)

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provides services that promote and improve agriculture, agribusiness, and forests; protect consumers and businesses; and conserve farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of all North Carolinians. The Department employs approximately 2,000 employees.

Position currently qualifies for a telework option. Telework options are subject to change at the discretion of management. The Structural Pest Control and Pesticides Division regulates the sale, distribution, and use of pesticides. Duties involve regulatory enforcement of the NC Pesticide Law as it relates to receiving complaint calls and inquiries from citizens about pesticide-related incidents in NC. Will be responsible for tracking the progression of enforcement cases until closure. Duties also include the assembly and assessment of data from multiple sources, the development of written reports, and recommendations (written and oral) to support regulatory decisions. The position will track all phases of the product sampling program and prepare correspondence to manufacturers and distributors. Prepare quarterly reports and assist in composing other reports for enforcement activities. Will assist with the development of enforcement verbiage for improvement in existing regulations. Work involves considerable contact with other field and office staff members, the regulated community, and the public. Occasional presentations to staff, outside professional groups, and the public are also required. The position will be responsible for drafting closure letters and Notices of Warning and reviewing documents for accuracy. The position will be required to establish effective working relationships with multiple State and Federal Agencies.

Recruitment Range: $50,088 - $55,088

• Experience evaluating scientific, technical, environmental, and/or regulatory information and using this information to draw valid conclusions necessary to facilitate the successful completion of job responsibilities.
• Experience communicating job-related information, procedures, policies, laws, or regulations to others in a clear and concise manner in oral or written form to the regulated community and general public.
• Experience preparing/compiling comprehensive reports, records, or technical documents utilizing Microsoft Applications, including Access.
• Considerable knowledge of agricultural practices and pesticide application equipment utilized in the State and the ability to interpret pesticide label information.
• Successful experience building and maintaining effective professional relationships and interacting professionally with co-workers, other agencies, and the regulated community as well as the ability to work and problem solve independently and confidentially.

Bachelor's degree in entomology, plant pathology, plant physiology, horticulture, chemistry, agronomy, biology, zoology, soil science, crop science, animal science, environmental or ecological science or a related scientific field of study from an appropriately accredited institution and one year of related experience in regulatory or government service programs, cooperative extension programs or agricultural research or industry; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.