This announcement will be used to fill 12 nonpermanent positions in Yakima, Okanogon and Eastern Washington counties trapping Apple Maggot fly’s.

Trappers work based out of their home office which is close to or within their survey route. Each trapper will be assigned a route that is reasonably accessible from their home. The home address provided on the submitted application will be the default location for your home office. If you wish to be considered for other locations, you need to indicate on your application which area you are interested in working.
 
For more information about the Washington State Department of Agriculture, visit us at www.agr.wa.gov.

Duration : The Insect Pest Trapper positions are temporary positions that are expected to last up to four months and begin in Mid-June. Trappers typically work full-­time Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a one hour break for lunch. Work load may fluctuate throughout the season between 32 – 40 hours per week depending on Apple Maggot fly activity. Work assignments will be reviewed weekly with the regional supervisor.

Trappers will receive a state ­issued vehicle, training, and supplies during their first week of work. Details will be provided during the interview process.

Location: Counties: Yakima, Okanogan, Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas, Grant, Adams, Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla and other Eastern Washington counties.
Preferred Cities: Yakima, Omak, Chelan, Wenatchee, Tri-Cities and Walla Walla

Trappers will be responsible for assembling, placing, monitoring, and removing up to 1,000 Insect traps within a designated area. A state vehicle is provided for survey duties. Trappers will be responsible for the safe and legal operation of their vehicles, effective placement and servicing of their traps, and maintaining good public relations. Trappers collect data and maintain electronic databases using a handheld device. Minimal experience necessary. Training provided.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to transport up to 20 pounds by hand.
• Ability to drive on all kinds of roads up to 300 miles per day. The ability to get in and out of a vehicle up to 100 times per day.
• Ability to quickly and efficiently navigate to and move to survey sites (50-­100 per day) within a designated route to set, monitor, and remove traps under various weather conditions and terrain.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• A minimum of 18 years of age.
• Have a valid Washington State driver’s license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Completed coursework in entomology, biological science, or a closely related field.
• Experience conducting scientific field work and data collection.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Ability to set goals, follow instructions, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to read maps, good navigation skills, and attention to detail.
• Good written communications to record all relevant data and report findings.

If you have questions about the positions, contact Michael Bush at mrbush@agr.wa.gov or the Pest Program hotline at (800) 443­-6684.

How to Apply:
You must complete your careers.wa.gov profile and answer the supplemental questions.

By submitting these materials, you are indicating that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Any untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from the applicant pool or dismissal if employed.

If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855)524- 5627 or email support@neogov.com.

Should you have any questions regarding this position or the online application, contact the Human Resource Office at (360) 902- 2020 or Recruitment@agr.wa.gov.

Prior to a new appointment into the Department of Agriculture, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment, but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.

The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified and documentation may be required. Applications received via e-mail will not be accepted in lieu of applying through the state’s on-line recruitment system.

The Human Resources Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.

The Department of Agriculture celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws.

Persons with a disability, who need assistance with their application or need this announcement in an alternative format, may call 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.