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FOREST HEALTH SPECIALIST
The Forest Health Specialist is responsible for providing technical assistance to landowners and communities in the prevention, detection, evaluation, and suppression of forest insects and diseases. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.
Class Code:
B062C
Job Grade:
GS07
Special Job Requirements:
Occasional in-state and overnight travel and exposure to inclement weather are required.
Typical Functions:
Conducts inspections to identify forest problems, collects samples of infested areas, analyzes and interprets results of findings, and recommends control methods. Develops, coordinates, and presents training programs on pests and disease control management programs for the agency field personnel, private land owners, and representatives from other state agencies. Conducts and/or participates in public meetings to share information about identifying and managing pests and disease problems. Compiles information from forest surveillance, findings from analysis, and evaluations of infested areas and other sources and writes project funding proposals to treat identified infested areas. Conducts research and develops and disseminates project guide books on pests and disease control management to district personnel. Provides information and recommendations to farmers and other landowners regarding ways in which they can best use land, promote plant growth, and avoid or correct problems such as erosion. Develops reporting forms for the commission and collects, compiles, and writes reports on disease and pest control management. Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Knowledge of the scientific principles of biology and forestry. Knowledge of forest pest identification and control. Knowledge of research methods related to forest pest control. Ability to analyze research information and investigation results to determine correct control methods. Ability to instruct staff and public in forest pest identification and control. Ability to develop detection and monitoring programs. Ability to work with numerous state and federal agency staffs.
Minimum Qualifications:
The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology or a related field; plus three years of experience in insect and disease identification and control. 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:
None
Exempt:
E
