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AGRI SPECIALIST
The Agriculture Specialist is responsible for conducting seed certification and field inspections of various crops checking for varietal purity, presence of noxious weeds, insects, plant diseases, and isolation from other varieties. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.
Class Code:
X097C
Job Grade:
GS05
Special Job Requirements:
Frequent in-state travel is required. Occasional exposure to hazardous conditions may occur.
Typical Functions:
Collects and secures samples of processed seed from field inspected crops, growers, retailers, and seed processing plants and submits to laboratory for certification and germination analysis. Collects samples of feed, fertilizers, pesticides, lime, and other agricultural products obtained from bulk plants, farms, and retail outlets, using best practices outlined by American Association of Feed Control Officials, and ensures that product labels are accurate and in compliance with state and federal laws. Inspects machinery and processing equipment used in cleaning, treating, or processing seed contracted from another seed grower to ensure against contamination. Conducts on-site inspections of nursery stock for proper labeling and presence of disease and/or destructive insects and issues stop-sale notices on infested plants. Maintains working knowledge of new invasive species and implements preventive measures to control or eradicate invasive species. Conducts Environmental Protection Agency Worker Protection inspections to ensure worker safety. Inspects spray systems of aircraft and ground application equipment, used to apply fertilizer and pesticides, to ensure proper working order and verify licensing of equipment and operators. Assists in treatment of infected areas to prevent spread of harmful insects. Inspects and issues phytosanitary certificates on agricultural commodities and harvesting equipment to be exported out of the state or out of the country. Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Knowledge of state and federal laws and agency policies. Knowledge of general operations of the agricultural industry. Knowledge of the identification of plants, insects, diseases, and customary control of pest pertaining to the agricultural industry. Ability to meet and work with the public along with the capability to conduct physical necessities for field work duties. Ability to conduct on-site inspections to ensure compliance with established standards and regulations and to document findings. Ability to articulate and convey the laws governed by the agency.
Minimum Qualifications:
The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus two years of college coursework in agriculture, agronomy, or a related field; plus two years of experience in crop inspection or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Required Certificates:
Must possess a valid Arkansas driver’s license.
Exempt:
N
