Join Washington County Environmental Health Team within the Public Health Division as a Seasonal Mosquito Technician! We are currently recruiting to fill three (3) vacancies with the anticipated end date of 9/13/2024.

About the Opportunity:

In this position, you will have the opportunity to learn professional science-based laboratory and field work inspecting mosquito habitats and conduct mosquito control activities using biological, cultural, or chemical methods in order to improve or sustain community safety.

These positions are seasonal temporary assignments. Seasonal positions can be assigned up to 40 hours per week for up to 6 months of duration. These positions will accrue sick time but are not eligible for other fringe benefits.

Due to the nature of the responsibilities, these positions are not eligible for telecommuting.

Who we are looking for:

We are looking for candidates who are independent with the ability to work under minimal supervision and strong time management and organizational skills.
 

Preferred Qualifications

(May not require to be considered for these positions)

Experience with integrated pest management, insect identification, specimen handling/processing, scientific (preferably in biology) data collection, and/or wetland habitat assessments.

Why Washington County?

Are you interested in challenging, meaningful, and rewarding work? Join Washington County in our commitment to advancing racial equity. Our Board of Commissioners worked closely with various community stakeholders and subject matter experts to develop an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Resolution. Adopted in February 2020, this resolution commits to the equitable delivery of Washington County’s services, resources, and opportunities for growth and development to every county resident.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

1. Monitors, evaluates, and conducts mosquito and environmental assessments of assigned areas according to department procedures; identifies all life stages of mosquitoes in the field; identifies mosquitoes to genus taxonomic level; and identifies other common aquatic organisms.
2. Independently determines and implements integrated pest management methods to control mosquito larval production influenced from a variety of variables such as weather patterns, mosquito life cycle, aquatic habitats, and site-specific historical data.
3. Utilizes databases and mapping software, such as GIS software, to track, analyze, and interpret data independently; and generates, maintains, and inputs accurate records.
4. Gather, categorize, and preserve mosquito specimens, follow laboratory procedures on collected samples, and ensure the upkeep of sampling and field equipment.
5. Assists in creating a positive and supportive work environment; enforces a safe workplace; establishes a culture of teamwork and communication; creates a workplace that promotes the organizational values of workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion; and actively promotes an environment respectful of living and working in a multicultural society.
6. Determines which mosquito trap routes to conduct based on varying factors which include weather conditions, dry ice availability, and time allotted to place mosquito traps.
7. Respond and investigate citizen complaints; distribute mosquito fish to the public; and conduct public education during day-to-day job duties.
8. Safely operates and maintains various insect monitoring equipment, hand tools, and pesticide application equipment.
9. Mix, load, and apply chemicals and sprays in accordance with policies, laws, and regulations.
10. Drive a County vehicle for work-related purposes.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience
Candidates must meet one of the following criteria to be considered:

• Associate’s degree in biology, environmental science, public health, or related field; OR
• Completion of 15 credits of college-level courses in biology, environmental science, public health, or a related field of study; AND One (1) year of experience performing work in fields such as fisheries, wildlife technicians, pest control, or wetland management; OR
• 18 months of work experience performing work in a field or laboratory environment within the fields of biology, environmental science, or public health.

Additional Licenses, Certificates, Physical Abilities and Specialty Requirements:

• Possession of a driver’s license valid in the State of Oregon and an acceptable driving record per Washington County Policy. To review the Driver’s License and Record Policy for Washington County
• Some positions in this classification may require the ability to obtain, within four (4) weeks of appointment, a Public Pesticide Applicator’s License required by the State of Oregon, Department of Agriculture for Public Health pesticide applications.