Weed & Pest Supervisor

Job Opportunities
* Non Traditional Full Time Opening (Full Time from approx. April – October) Position Summary

The Weed & Pest Supervisor is responsible for administering and enforcing the South Dakota Weed and Pest Control laws within the county. This position plans, coordinates, and directs county weed and pest control programs to prevent, manage, and control noxious weeds, invasive species, and designated pests in order to protect agricultural lands, natural resources, infrastructure, and public health.

The Supervisor serves as the county’s subject-matter expert on weed and pest control issues and works closely with landowners, producers, municipalities, state agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance, education, and effective control efforts.

County Commission & County Weed Board

• Administer and enforce South Dakota Codified Laws related to weed and pest control, including SDCL Chapter 38-22 and applicable administrative rules.
• Develop and implement annual county weed and pest control plans, programs, and priorities.
• Conduct inspections of public and private lands to identify noxious weeds and pest infestations.
• Issue notices of violation, orders for control, and follow-up actions in accordance with state law and county policy.
• Coordinate enforcement actions when voluntary compliance is not achieved.

• Plan, schedule, and oversee weed and pest control activities on county-owned and managed lands, rights-of-way, and other designated areas.
• Select appropriate mechanical, chemical, biological, and integrated pest management (IPM) methods.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, application, and disposal of pesticides and herbicides in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Maintain accurate treatment records, maps, and application logs.

• Provide technical assistance, guidance, and education to landowners, producers, municipalities, and the public regarding weed and pest identification, control methods, and legal responsibilities.
• Promote cooperative weed and pest management approaches and voluntary compliance.
• Conduct outreach through meetings, workshops, publications, and direct communication.

• Prepare and manage the weed and pest control budget, subject to County Commission approval.
• Administer cost-share, grant, or cooperative programs related to weed and pest control.
• Maintain program records, reports, and documentation required by the county and state agencies.
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and updates for the County Commission.

• Supervise assigned staff, seasonal employees, and contractors, as applicable.
• Coordinate training and ensure compliance with safety standards and pesticide applicator requirements.
• Maintain and oversee equipment, vehicles, and supplies used in weed and pest control operations.
• Ensure safe work practices and compliance with OSHA and other applicable regulations.

• Coordinate with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), South Dakota State University Extension, conservation districts, municipalities, and neighboring counties.
• Participate in regional and state weed and pest control meetings, trainings, and committees.
• Serve as the county representative on weed and pest control matters.

• Acts as the county’s designated Weed & Pest Supervisor as recognized by the State of South Dakota.
• Authorized to enter land for inspection as permitted by law.
• Authorized to issue enforcement notices and recommend further action to the County Commission when necessary.

• Experience in weed and pest control, agriculture, land management, or a related field.
• Knowledge of noxious weeds, invasive species, and pest control practices common to South Dakota.
• Ability to communicate effectively with landowners, producers, elected officials, and the public.
• High school diploma or equivalent
• South Dakota Commercial or Public Pesticide Applicator certification (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe).
• Supervisory or program management experience.
• Experience working with agricultural producers and rural landowners.

• Ability to obtain and maintain required pesticide applicator licensing.
• Completion of required state and continuing education training.

• Combination of office and outdoor field work.
• Regular exposure to varying weather conditions, rough terrain, vegetation, and agricultural environments.
• Seasonal workload fluctuations with peak activity during growing seasons.

• Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain.
• Ability to lift, carry, and operate equipment and supplies associated with weed and pest control activities.
• Ability to operate county vehicles and equipment.

This job description is not intended to be…