Entomologist

JOB CODE: 1386

PAY GRADE: 2210

SALARY RANGE: $41,114 - $69,994

LOCATION OF WORK
EBR Parish Mosquito Abatement and Rodent Control District

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the Director of Mosquito and Rodent Control, performs responsible professional level biology work within the East Baton Rouge Parish Mosquito Abatement and Rodent Control District. Work involves the study of insects, rodents and other pests to determine and facilitate effective control and/or elimination procedures and techniques. Employees of this class identify and classify subject organisms, analyze field data, recommend pesticide modification, conduct various tests and make observations to detect viruses and diseases in carrier organisms. General supervision may be exercised over subordinate laboratory or field personnel. Work is reviewed through periodic conferences or reports and observation of results obtained. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Conducts the parish-wide encephalitis surveillance program, which includes the capture, bleeding and release of wild and domestic birds and animals. Collects larvae and adult mosquitoes for viral analysis, insecticide susceptibility testing or other experimentation; interprets findings to aid in the diagnosis and control of pest related problems. Conducts the parish wide rodent control program; formulates rodent baits and poisons. Performs on-site inspections and observations of rodent control service areas; determines the appropriate location of baits and traps. Conducts landing rate, habitat and population dynamics studies and interprets results. Meets with the public to inform them of the purposes and procedures of the parish pest control program. Supervises, trains and plans the work of subordinate Laboratory Aides and Pest Control Inspectors. Keeps records and files for the rodent and mosquito control program as required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); prepares reports for submission to administrative superiors. Orders supplies. Conducts swimming pool inspections/information exchange with Parish Attorney. Assists with Budget planning. Interviews prospective employees.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of the basic principles of zoology, entomology, toxicology, chemistry, virology and epidemiology. Knowledge of the standard practices and techniques of mosquito and rodent control. Knowledge of standard practices, principles and techniques of encephalitis surveillance and laboratory procedures. Knowledge of the geography of East Baton Rouge Parish. Skill and dexterity in laboratory procedures. Ability to train and supervise subordinates in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale. Ability to conduct scientific laboratory and field-tests or experiments in an objective and professional fashion. Ability to analyze field and laboratory data and to reason logically; interprets results and provides sound recommendations. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, local and state officials and the general public. Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, to groups and to individuals. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS