Assistant Vector Ecologist/Vector Ecologist

Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District; Kansas; On-site; Full time

Job summary

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District seeks qualified candidates for the position of Assistant Vector Ecologist and Vector Ecologist. These roles involve conducting public health-related field studies, analyzing biological data, and providing assistance in vector monitoring and management. Ideal candidates will have a relevant education background and experience in vector control, contributing to a crucial public health initiative.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• Experience in vector control is preferred (2-5 years).
• Valid California Driver’s License is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ecological surveys and population studies.
• Evaluate pesticide effectiveness and training.
• Analyze mosquito collection data and maintain records.

Skills

Data Analysis

Biological Data Collection

Public Speaking

Entomological Knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health, Entomology, or related field

Tools

Laboratory Equipment

Field Sampling Tools

Statistical Software

Job description

NOTE: A cover letter must be submitted along with this application.

SALARY RANGE
Assistant Vector Ecologist: $41.79 - 50.79 Hourly
Vector Ecologist: $48.46 - 58.90 Hourly

DEFINITION
Under general supervision (Assistant Vector Ecologist) or direction (Vector Ecologist), conducts and executes various aspects of the District's scientific-technical program; collects, preserves, records, and reports on a wide variety of biological and ecological field data associated with public health vectors, with an emphasis on mosquitoes; conducts field trials and surveillance for mosquitoes and mosquito borne diseases; provides assistance in the collection, analysis, and recording of biological and entomological field and laboratory data associated with the District’s scientific subprograms and technical services; performs field and laboratory trials and studies to evaluate the effectiveness of pesticides; provides technical assistance concerning operational pesticide application methods; and performs related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision (Assistant Vector Ecologist) or direction (Vector Ecologist), from the Scientific-Technical Manager. Incumbents at the Vector Ecologist level exercise technical and functional direction over and provide training to less experienced staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Assistant Vector Ecologist: This is the entry-level classification in the Vector Ecologist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents with basic vector ecology knowledge learn and perform routine surveillance related and entomological work. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Vector Ecologist level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Vector Ecologist: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Vector Ecologist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant Vector Ecologist by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Positions in the Vector Ecologist class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the Vector Ecologist level are normally filled by advancement from the Assistant Vector Ecologist level; progression to the Vector Ecologist level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the Vector Ecologist level.Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Positions at the Assistant Vector Ecologist level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

• Collects, analyzes, preserves, interprets, and records a variety of biological and ecological field data associated with public health vectors, with an emphasis on mosquitoes, within the District's scientific-technical program; conducts ecological population studies and surveys of vector sources and species distribution throughout the District; inspects and/or investigates major sources of vector problems.
• Identifies, sorts, and processes mosquito specimens for arbovirus testing and other vector-borne disease surveillance protocols as required, targeting both native and invasive mosquito species; investigates public health problems and prepares documentation for abatement proceedings; evaluates surveillance programs and suggests changes to address surveillance challenges; assists in training new personnel regarding invasive mosquito surveillance and collection techniques.
• Oversees and assists with continuous trapping of mosquitoes; monitors mosquito populations and identifies mosquito species; evaluates their health significance and recommends control measures; recommends modifications to trapping routesin the form of site replacements or additions of sites to a route; documents mosquitos trapped by type, sex, and species; monitors procedures and methods for abating and/or mitigating major vector nuisances.
• Evaluates the effectiveness and performance of new and existing pesticides, pesticide application equipment,and control measures for their effectiveness; tests pesticides to determine whether products may be viable for mosquito abatement operations; conducts bioassays to identify pesticide resistance in vector populations and makes necessary recommendations; assists in the training of personnel on the proper use and application of pesticides.
• Prepares and records samples for submission for laboratory testing on a diverse range of vector transmitted diseases which impact public health; analyzes the effectiveness of tools used to kill mosquitos;fabricates, cleans, and maintains laboratory and field equipment; purchases field and lab supplies; calibrates pesticide application and field equipment; builds, repairs, and maintains insect traps; provides training to Vector Field Assistants regarding how and where to set up traps and protocols regarding trapping.
• Inputs mosquito collection and disease data into a statewide database; produces graphs, maps, analyses, and figures depicting mosquito abundance trends, and generates reports for District staff; maintains written records and data collection on field and laboratory activities.
• Performs black fly and non-biting midge abundance surveys in designated portions of the Los Angeles River; modifies treatments accordingly.
• Conducts field studies and trials, documents procedures and outcomes, and presents findings at professional conferences and/or publishes findings in relevant journals.
• Provides, interprets, and applies biological and other related scientific knowledge in overall program evaluation, guidance, and development; participates in the technical phases of program development and planning.
• Participates in imported disease case investigations to determine the potential for a local disease outbreak.
• Advises operations staff regarding pesticide usage, concentration, dosage, and application rates based on vector species, season, environmental conditions, and available equipment; reports pesticide usage.
• Cares for and maintains sentinel chicken flocks and other sentinel organisms as required; collects, processes, and analyzes chicken and wild bird serology samples; performs whole blood draws from sentinel chickens to test for vector-related diseases; ships blood samples to external laboratories for specialized testing.
• Prepares and conducts presentations at conferences and for community groups, as well as elementary schools, high schools, and universities; assists state, national, and international entities and universities in training personnel regarding emerging mosquito control technologies.
• Collects, identifies, processes, tests, and records larval and adult mosquito sample collections; reports on mosquito collection findings; confers with operations regarding mosquito collections and their health significance; recommends control measures.
• Maintains an in-house mosquito colony which provides a consistent source of pesticide-susceptible strains of mosquitoes used in bioassays and treatment efficacy trials; performs routine maintenance of mosquito colonies.
• Operates District vehicles and equipment including trucks, fume hoods, microscopes, computers, tablets, printers, copy machines, insect traps, power and hand tools, sewing machines, calibration equipment, seine nets, syringes, pipettes, soldering irons, and other related equipment.
• Observes and complies with all District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Responds and participates in Human Case Response.
• Interacts with co-workers at all levels in the District in a collaborative and customer service-oriented manner.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Positions at the Assistant Vector Ecologist level may exercise some of these knowledge and abilities statements in a learning capacity.

• Insects, pathogens, biology, ecology, and epidemiologic principles related to vector-borne diseases of the region.
• Scientific methods and protocols used to detect and determine the cause of a diverse range of vector transmitted diseases.
• Surveillance and investigative methods and techniques.
• Vector-borne disease transmission cycles.
• Methods and techniques of implementing a comprehensive vector ecology and disease prevention program.
• Principles and practices of biological, chemical, and physical scienceswith an in-depth knowledge of the field of entomology.
• Scientific data collection and reporting.
• Principles, practices, and methods of pesticide application and effects and hazards to animal and plant life.
• Current theories and practices of vector and related disease control and surveillance and long-range issues related to vector control.
• Research techniques and investigative methods including data interpretation and biostatistics.
• Principles and procedures of technical report writing, and preparation of correspondence and presentations.
• Principles of mathematics and biostatistics.
• Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
• Recordkeeping principles and procedures.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
• District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and District staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Plan and implement a comprehensive vector ecology and disease detection and prevention program.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and make adjustments, as necessary.
• Conduct surveillance and investigations on program operations.
• Conduct research and prepare findings and recommendations.
• Prepare manuscripts of scientific articles for journal submission.
• Effectively communicate complex concepts to the general population.
• Understand scientific data and recordkeeping practices.
• Exercise effective public speaking skills.
• Perform fundamental mathematical, algebraic, and statistical calculations.
• Prepare clear and concise scientific and technical reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Read, understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, rules, guidelines, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Effectively represent the department and the District in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, various business, professional, and regulatory organizations, and in meetings with individuals.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

• Assistant Vector Ecologist/Vector Ecologist: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in environmental health, public health, entomology, zoology, biology, ecology, or a related field.

Experience:

• Assistant Vector Ecologist: Two (2) years of experience in vector control.
• Vector Ecologist: Five (5) years of experience in vector control or three (3) years of experience equivalent to an Assistant Vector Ecologist at the District.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License, to be maintained throughout employment.

Assistant Vector Ecologist:

• Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months of appointment, a valid certification in Public Health Vector Control Categories “A” and “B,” as required by the California Department of Public Health, with completion of categories "C" and "D" within 18 months of appointment, to be maintained throughout employment.

Vector Ecologist:

• Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months of appointment, a valid certification in Public Health Vector Control Categories “A,” “B,” “C,” and “D,” as required by the California Department of Public Health, to be maintained throughout employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office/laboratory setting and use standard office/laboratory equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; and the ability to stand and walk between work areas as needed. Repetitive movement and finger, hand, and wrist dexterity are required to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator, as well as to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification may occasionally require bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, pushing, and pulling drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 25 pounds.

Must possess mobility to work in varying site conditions when assigned to fieldwork; strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical tasks; the ability to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; and perform tasks such as reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, and bending. Must also be able to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District sites, with vision to observe biological and environmental conditions. The job requires frequent walking in operational areas to provide surveillance and environmental analysis, with possible exposure to hazardous materials at certain locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 pounds, or heavier weights, using proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and may be exposed to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, vermin, insects, parasites, and hazardous chemical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Select District appointments are contingent upon successful completion of the following:

• Satisfactory background check verifying education, experience, and references.
• Insurability clearance under the District’s insurance carrier and enrollment in the DMV Employer Pull Notice Program.
• Live Scan fingerprint examination and clearance.
• Satisfactory post-offer physical examination and drug screening performed by a medical provider and/or laboratory designated by the District.

In accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 5144, Appendix A, employees may be required to comply with mandatory fit testing and respiratory protection standards based on job duties.

The selected candidate must also provide documentation establishing identity and employment eligibility as required by the federal Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA).

This job bulletin does not constitute a contract, expressed or implied. The District reserves the right to modify or revoke any provision in this announcement without notice.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The District is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, the District does not discriminate on the basis of age (40 or older), disability (physical or mental), equal pay, genetic information, harassment (including sexual harassment), national origin or ancestry, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), race, color, religion or creed, retaliation, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or veteran or military status. All employment decisions are made based on job-related qualifications and merit.

PAID SICK LEAVE COMPLIANCE
The District complies with the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014 (AB 1522), California’s paid sick leave law, which entitles eligible employees to accrue, use, and carry over paid sick leave as required by law. Additional provisions may apply based on District policy or collective bargaining agreements.

RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCESS
To be considered for this position, applicants must submit a completed District employment application and any required supplemental materials before the posting closes. The District reserves the right to close the posting at any time. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Applications will be reviewed for relevant education, experience, and qualifications. The most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in an interview and/or examination process. Final selection is contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment requirements listed above. For questions about this position or the application process, please contact Human Resources [e-mail] or [phone].