Agriculture Inspection Specialist - Noxious Weed

Work tasks are collaboratively organized and completed for noxious weed and seed programming needs: Conduct survey and detection activities for noxious weeds, seed sampling.

Conduct Noxious Weed inspections, complaints and follow up; Evaluate counties, program evaluation, review annual reports for noxious weed surveillance; Assist with sampling for testing of industrial hemp products as needed and assist with statewide.

Conduct education and outreach activities with agricultural industries, the general public, and special interest groups, to inform them of noxious weed control, seed issues and industrial hemp requirements.

This will involve travel within the assigned work region with the possibility of overnight stays associated with that travel. Other duties assigned within the scope of the classification.

REQUIREMENTS: Level I: Two years' experience working in a relevant discipline.
Level II: Post high school coursework/training in agriculture, plant/animal or natural sciences, or other program related field OR a vocation certificate in electrical, mechanical, engineering or other program related field.
AND
Post high school coursework/training in agriculture, plant/animal or natural sciences, or other program related field OR a vocation certificate in electrical, mechanical, engineering or other program related field.
AND
Two years' experience working in a relevant discipline.

PREFERRED: Post high school coursework/training in the following areas: agriculture, biological sciences (agronomy, horticulture, chemistry, environmental studies,) or other program related fields; experience in conducting regulatory inspections and working with the public.

OTHER: This position requires frequent travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver’s license or another form of reliable transportation. Regular and reliable attendance is required. Interaction with the public required.

Knowledge of: the NE Noxious Weed Act and the NE Seed Law is preferred; the laws and regulations in a specific area of inspection within the Department of Agriculture; techniques of interviewing; principles and practices of conducting inspections; sampling procedures; general personal computer operations; basic laboratory testing procedures; specialized laboratory and sampling equipment; a plant science or agriculture understanding.

Ability to: interact with individuals to gain their confidence and to establish rapport; communicate with the public and business proprietors; interpret, apply and explain policies and standards; compare data with established criteria to determine similarities and differences and identify conformance with standards; make decisions and take action in dealing with noncompliance problems; work independently with little supervision; prioritize work in an efficient manner;

compile and interpret inspection data; present findings; prepare accurate and concise reports; learn to maintain and repair specialized laboratory equipment; utilize computers and smart phone devices; present information before large groups; work outdoors in inclement weather and in an environment exposed to physical hazards, infectious diseases and toxic/hazardous substances; willing to overnight travel.