Job Title:  Compliance Assistance Specialist 
Division:  Regulatory and Environmental Affairs Pesticide Regulatory Programs Unit
Headquarters:  Guthrie Agricultural Center, Charleston, WV 
Reports To   Pesticide Supervisor 
Supervisory  Responsibility:  None 
FLSA Status:  Non-exempt

Nature of Work: Works with the educational and licensing aspects of the pesticide program relating to assisting pesticide businesses to achieve compliance with pesticide laws and rules. Work is conducted in cooperation with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, United States Department of Agriculture, West Virginia University Cooperative Extension Service, local governing bodies, industry and applicator groups.

Examples of Work:

• Coordinates statewide compliance activities with Integrated Pest Management for Schools and Day Cares including training, on-site inspections and communicates with enforcement staff.
• Works with government and industry groups to implement pesticide training and safety programs as required for Regulated Pesticide businesses.
• Contacts pesticide business groups and offers training and educational assistance in achieving compliance in licensure, regulatory compliance, and general safety.
• Assists government, private and industry groups with certification and recertification workshops to achieve compliance with pesticide laws.
• Prepares educational articles, pamphlets, manuals and training programs in regard to pesticide education, certification and recertification.
• Promotes the principles of Integrated Pest Management to provide for the reduced use of pesticides and reduced risk to the public.
• Represents and speaks on behalf of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture at government, private and industry group conferences and conventions.
• Performs related work as required.

Working Conditions: Standing, sitting, driving, walking, operating a computer, and public speaking.  The nature of the work dictates a willingness on the part of the applicant to travel statewide. It is anticipated this position will involve up to 60% travel status.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of state and federal pesticide laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of the requirements for certification and licensing.
• Knowledge of pesticides and their related usage.
• Ability to express ideas clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to perform public speaking in front of large audiences.
• Ability to prepare educational materials and conduct training programs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, officials, regulated groups and the general public.
• Ability to organize work and carry out assignments.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Equivalent to graduation from a standard 4-year college with a degree in the biological sciences, agricultural education or education in the biological sciences is required. Education beyond a 4-year college degree is desirable.
Experience: Two years experience in a field closely related to the area of assignment, such as entomology, agriculture, education, regulatory pesticide inspection or safety is desirable.


Additional Requirements:

• Dependable transportation required and proof of insurance.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
• Valid driver’s license.

           
   This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner and designees.
                     West Virginia Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer.