Mosquito Control Specialist

General Description:

Under the supervision of the district's director and direct supervision of the Biologist, performs responsible work assisting with activating, planning and supervising field and laboratory work in the mosquito abatement program. Work is primarily focused on the technical application of adult mosquito surveillance, juvenile mosquito surveillance, vector-borne disease surveillance, insecticide resistance testing, rearing of biological control organisms, field-testing efficacy of biological control organisms, pesticides and/or bio-rational pesticides, etc. General supervision may be exercised over subordinate personnel for special projects. Work is highly independent and is reviewed through periodic conferences or reports and observation of results obtained.

Essential Work Tasks:

Mosquito Control Specialist will develop an acute knowledge of Iberia Parish mosquito ecology and bionomics through juvenile and adult mosquito surveillance. The Surveillance data generated from collected field specimens will guide operation abatement. The mosquito control specialist will therefore help implement, select and evaluate various operational abatement techniques, pesticides, biological controls or bio-rational pesticides. The mosquito specialist will maintain district's mosquito and biological control colonies, rear a variety of organisms including: copepods, fungi, insects, minnows, and nematodes. The mosquito control specialist will conduct encephalitis surveillance and insecticide resistance testing and other experimentation; interpret findings to aid in the diagnosis and control of mosquito related problems. The specialist will conduct field surveys to determine where biological control is needed and efficacious for mosquito control. Periodically, the mosquito control specialist will make presentations to the public and professional bodies concerning mosquito surveillance, vector-borne diseases, pesticide resistance mechanisms, biological and bio-rational control methods for mosquitos.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:

Academic and/or background in biology, chemistry, human physiology, genetics, field biology, vector-borne diseases and analytical laboratory experience. Ability to do dilutions, mathematical calculations, serum preparations and handle equipment necessary to conduct efficacy trials for pesticides and bio-rational pesticides. Ability to handle gravid traps, light traps, oviposition traps and other mosquito collection devices. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public. Ability to train and supervise subordinate employees in conducting surveillance and efficacy trials in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the mosquito abatement district.

Minimum educational requirements:

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate of competency, supplemented by completion of twelve semester hours of science from an accredited college/university or any equivalent combination of train or experience.

Certifications:

Must have a valid Louisiana driver's license at the time of appointment and maintain throughout employment in this classification. Possession of a valid commercial pesticide applicator's certification in category 8A-Mosquito Control, will be required within the first 6 months of appointment to this position.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• New Iberia, LA 70560 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• New Iberia, LA 70560: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $25