GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: The Invasive Species Program Coordinator will be responsible for conducting insect-borne disease and invasive pest/plant control, monitoring, technical assistance, and educational activities throughout Schuylkill County. This position is also responsible for assisting with AMD treatment system maintenance and water quality sampling. Key duties include fieldwork, data collection and entry, vector control activities, and coordination with Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) staff, and other Conservation District staff.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

1. Conduct comprehensive field studies and monitoring on the abundance, distribution, and life stage of mosquitoes, spotted lanternfly, and other species of concern as it relates to effective Integrated Pest Management strategies in Schuylkill County.
2. Exploration and identification of Ailanthus altissima to assess spotted lanternfly harborage areas and open possibilities for tree treatment.
3. Treatment and removal of spotted lanternfly egg masses.
4. Collect and submit mosquito samples on dry ice for virus isolation.
5. Enter all collected data into the PA DEP Mosquito-borne Disease Control website and correctly ship biological samples to the PA DEP’s lab in Harrisburg, PA.
6. Conduct an effective mosquito larvicide program that targets known vectors of West Nile Virus, particularly Culex mosquitoes, while maintaining accurate records according to the PA Department of Agriculture regulations.
7. Disseminate press releases indicating when and where spray applications will be applied. Also notify individuals in the Pennsylvania Pesticide Hypersensitivity Registry, local beekeepers, and local municipal officials.
8. Prepare articles pertaining to insect management for the Conservation District newsletter and other publications.
9. Assist regional PA DEP and PDA staff when mosquito adulticide and other pesticide operations are planned within the county.
10. Conduct pre- and post-treatment monitoring of locations and map insect production areas.
11. Conduct bi-weekly tick collections for nymphal Ixodes and non-Ixodes species from April-September and adult Ixodes collections in the fall following standardized dragging collection method from DEP.
12. Coordinate educational programs related to conducting insect-borne disease and invasive species management in the county. Activities may include, but are not limited to, giving presentations providing tours, writing articles for newsletters, and generally promoting the program and measures in day-to-day contacts.
13. Attend meetings and training sessions that discuss the administration of the Mosquito-borne Disease Control and Spotted Lanternfly Control programs.
14. Manage and maintain storage for pesticides and program equipment.
15. Perform basic maintenance and repairs of spray and trapping equipment.
16. Respond to all phone calls, correspondence, and emails about insect management control/surveillance, and invasive species including complaints that may require continued follow-up.
17. Prepare quarterly invoices to PA DEP and PDA for grant reimbursement and keep detailed financial records for auditing purposes.18. Operate a variety of machinery, equipment and tools associated with work activities, which may include a motor vehicle, camera, insect collection equipment, pesticide application equipment, office equipment, and other instruments.
19. Attend the monthly District Board meetings and report to the Board of Directors on all activities and accomplishments for the month in the form of a monthly written report.
20. Maintain daily narrative of work activity, accurate timesheet, compensatory time log and mileage log. Turn in daily log on a weekly basis and timesheet, compensatory time log and mileage log on a monthly basis.
21. Coordinate with district staff to ensure the completion of maintenance of the AMD treatment systems located within the county.
22. Explore grant funding opportunities related to invasive species management.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, entomology, biology, or related fields preferred; related experience; and knowledge of GIS.
• An ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing to a wide range of individuals and groups is essential.
• Must be able to pass the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Pesticide Applicator Certification Test and maintain certification.
• Ability to traverse difficult terrain.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Valid driver's license is required.
• Some irregular work hours involving evening and weekend work is required.

Working Conditions:
Work is performed alone in a normal office environment with frequent interruptions or in the field. Work requires frequent travel to remote areas of the county. Work may be performed around hazardous machinery and substances. Some squatting and bending is required, as well as lifting objects up to 25 pounds. When in the field, uneven and rough terrain may be encountered, including during inclement weather where wet and slippery surfaces may be present. This position will be required to work with biting insects that may be capable of transmitting disease.

Disclaimer:

Classification descriptions are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required to perform the job.