Nature of Work:

Under general supervision of the Assistant Director, an employee in this position will perform daily water sampling and assist in water quality analysis for the Water Quality Program.  Other duties may include assisting Nutrient Management Planners with soil sampling, soil preparation for laboratory analysis, forage sampling, and assisting with the Department’s Verification program for agricultural best management practices. 

Examples of Work:

• Collect and prepare surface water samples to facilitate laboratory testing for determination of nutrients, suspended solids and fecal coliform.
• Perform basic field tests on water samples at the time of collection.
• Collect soil, manure, and forage samples on agricultural operations
• Prepare media and other chemical solutions for the bacteriological analyses of samples.
• Clean and sterilize laboratory glassware and equipment.
• Enter water quality monitoring information into the Divisions Water Quality Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Assist in maintaining quality assurance records for Environmental Laboratories.
• Attend technical meetings as required.
• Assist in writing reports as necessary.
• Maintain water quality field instruments.
• Restock water quality monitoring supplies.
• Performs related work as required, such as assisting other READ analysts as needed.
• Help maintain Environmental Programs fleet vehicles stationed at the Moorefield Office.
• Skill in the use of fragile and complex laboratory equipment.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Working Conditions:

Outdoor field situations when collecting water/soils samples and data. Climbing up and down stream banks and traverse varying terrain. Potential exposure to inclement weather including heat, cold, and rain. Work in a laboratory environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• General knowledge of federal and state environmental laws, rules and regulations as they might apply to or affect agriculture and poultry.
• General knowledge of rules, regulations, policies and objectives of the WVDA.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to effectively work with the general public, media, legislative, state, local and federal personnel.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with the R.E.A.D. Director and Assistant Directors, and other WVDA staff in implementing and monitoring WVDA programs

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.

             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.