Pesticide Applicator Certification Specialist

The Pesticide Regulatory SME provides specialized technical and regulatory expertise related to pesticide applicator certification, training, and compliance. This role serves as a subject-matter resource on EPA’s Certification of Pesticide Applicators requirements under 40 CFR Part 171 and supports the development, review, and delivery of certification and recertification programs. The SME provides guidance to project teams and stakeholders to promote regulatory compliance, program effectiveness, and audit readiness.

Supervisory Responsibilities
:
No

Job Classification: Part Time, Non-Exempt

Duty Station: Oklahoma City, OK (Remote/Hybird)

Travel
:
Up to 15% contingent upon business needs

• Provide expert guidance on pesticide applicator certification and recertification requirements, including requirements established under 40 CFR Part 171.
• Interpret and apply federal and state pesticide regulations, policies, standards, and program requirements.
• Advise on the development, implementation, and evaluation of pesticide applicator certification and training programs.
• Review training curricula, examinations, certification materials, and technical documentation for regulatory accuracy and compliance.
• Support the development and delivery of certification and recertification training through in-person, virtual, and e-learning formats.
• Provide technical expertise regarding the structure and operation of state Pesticide Safety Education Programs (PSEPs).
• Evaluate program processes and documentation to identify compliance gaps and recommend appropriate improvements or corrective actions.
• Support regulatory reviews, audits, assessments, and other activities necessary to maintain program compliance and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with instructional designers, technical staff, regulatory personnel, and other stakeholders to ensure training and certification requirements are effectively incorporated into program materials.
• Prepare or review technical reports, guidance materials, presentations, and other pesticide-related program deliverables.
• This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the individual. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

• In-depth knowledge of pesticide applicator certification requirements and 40 CFR Part 171.
• Strong understanding of federal and state pesticide regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with state Pesticide Safety Education Programs (PSEPs) and their operational structures.
• Ability to interpret complex regulatory requirements and provide clear, practical technical guidance.
• Knowledge of certification, recertification, competency assessment, and training program practices.
• Strong analytical, technical writing, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, regulatory agencies, and program stakeholders.

• Required:
  
  Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Biology, Chemistry, Toxicology, Environmental Science, Agricultural Science, or a related scientific field OR at least a minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in pesticide regulation, applicator certification, pesticide safety education, or a closely related field
• Required:
  
  Demonstrated experience interpreting or applying EPA pesticide applicator certification requirements, including 40 CFR Part 171.
• Preferred:
  Experience working with or supporting state Pesticide Safety Education Programs (PSEPs)
• Preferred:
  Prior experience managing or delivering pesticide certification and recertification training through multiple delivery formats.
• Preferred:
  Experience supporting regulatory compliance, program reviews, documentation, and audit-readiness activities is desirable.

• Ability to remain in a stationary position and operate a computer and other office equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to effectively communicate and exchange technical…