Regulatory Officer -- Pesticides
Summary
Title:Regulatory Officer -- Pesticides
ID:1059
Division:Regulatory and Environmental Affairs
Campaign End Date:N/A
Description

Job Title: Regulatory Officer- Agricultural Materials and Pesticides

Division: Regulatory and Environmental Affairs

Headquarters: Morgantown, West Virginia

FLSA: Non-exempt

Salary: $30,000 - $35,000

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

 

Nature of Work: An employee in this position inspects retail, distribution and manufacturing facilities which handle products that are monitored as stipulated in the laws and regulations of the State and by the policies of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA). These products may include but are not limited to: animal feed, pet food, fertilizers, agricultural limes, and agricultural and forest seeds. A Regulatory Officer is responsible for ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the registration, application and use of pesticides used in West Virginia to protect the public and environment from unsafe and ineffective pesticides and pesticide application practices.

Examples of Work Performed:

  • Conducts inspections of farm and garden supply stores and samples various lots of animal feeds, fertilizers, lime, seeds, pesticides and other commodities.
  • Inspects pet shops to collect samples, check product labels and product registration.
  • Conducts inspections of record keeping of pesticide usage by private and commercial applicators.
  • Conducts on-site investigations and reviews of pesticide usage.
  • Monitors experimental use permits.
  • Responds to consumer complaints regarding products regulated by WVDA.
  • Conducts Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) contract inspections with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with the ability to fill out complex FDA forms and other paperwork.
  • Compiles necessary reports and documents to be completed after inspections and sampling.
  • Conducts recalls for the WVDA or to assist the FDA, US Department of Agriculture Administration (USDA), or WV Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) when necessary.
  • Collects pesticide samples for laboratory analysis and label review.
  • Inspects licensed pest control operator’s equipment and reports.
  • Assists in certification workshops by giving presentations on laws, regulations and proper use of pesticides.
  • Assists in administering certification examinations.
  • Conducts integrated pest management inspection activities at schools and child care facilities.
  • Conducts Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Worker Protection Standard inspections and assists with training as needed.
  • Completes numerous trainings online and in classroom settings to comply with the upcoming Feed Regulatory Program Standards.
  • Utilizes numerous computer programs to complete all inspections and data entry for samples and inspection at all firms.
  • Completes weekly time and leave sheets.
  • Completes Daily Activity Reports to be sent to supervisor weekly.
  • Completes monthly transportation log records, cash advances, and sends them to supervisor for approval.
  • Provides technical assistance to retailers, producers and distributors.
  • Attends state and national meetings and training seminars.
  • Works within an assigned territory; however, may be required to cover additional territory at the discretion of division administrators.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

Frequently bend, squat, stand, sit, climb, kneel, reach above shoulder level, push/pull and/or walk for extended period, and operate motorized equipment. Must be able to lift/carry 50 pounds. Work requires being outdoors in extreme weather including heat, cold, rain and snow.

Approximately 85% of work time is spent in travel within assigned territory and may include overnight stay.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of WV Code Chapter 19 relating to duties and responsibilities of the WV Department of Agriculture, Regulatory and Environmental Affairs Division.
  • Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the safe use of pesticides.
  • Ability to comprehend and apply complex laws and regulations in diverse situations.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in verbal and written form.
  • Ability to make public presentations to industry, schools, professional and community meetings.
  • Knowledge of proper investigative techniques and procedures.
  • Knowledge of requirements for licensing under the pesticide laws.
  • Ability to properly use safety equipment.
  • Ability to safely collect pesticide samples.
  • Ability to perform calculations.
  • Ability to reason and analyze complex situations.
  • Ability to organize and carry out work assignments.
  • Ability to maintain a good record keeping system.
  • Possess a working knowledge of computer programs and skills.
  • Skilled in attention to detail of surroundings to detect possible violations of the laws and regulations.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Training: Graduation from an accredited 4-year college or university with a degree in food science, agriculture, agri-business, biological sciences, or related field.
  • Experience: Two years’ experience in a field closely related to the areas of assignment, agriculture or investigation experience is preferred.
  • Substitution: Experience with agricultural inspections and compliance activities may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for the required training.

Additional Requirements

  • Valid Driver’s License is required.
  • Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
  • Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
  • Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture, and the State of West Virginia.
This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner and designees.
This opening is closed and is no longer accepting applications
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