Assistant Horticultural Inspector

Suffolk County, NY

Posting Dates:
July 6, 2026 - July 16, 2026

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking candidates to fill one Assistant Horticultural Inspector 1 position in Suffolk County. The role includes performing visual surveys of plants for pests, identifying plant diseases and insects; collecting samples; deploying traps and lures; labeling and packing samples for labs; accurately recording survey data; data entry of survey information; mapping properties;

reporting results; and maintaining survey equipment. The position is paid $20.83/hour, full‑time (40 hours per week, Monday‑Friday), and temporary seasonal with two seasons:
April 1 – November 30 and December 1 – March 31. Duties require walking and standing outdoors in all weather conditions, and overnight travel may be required.

Assist in visual surveys of plants for pests; identify plant diseases; collect samples of leaves, soil, seeds; deploy traps and lures; label and pack samples; record survey data; enter data; map properties; report sample dispositions; maintain equipment.

This is a PEF‑represented position offering a comprehensive benefits package including cost‑effective health insurance, fully covered dental and vision care, New York State Pension Plan participation, paid time off (5 personal days, 13 vacation days, 13 sick days, 13 paid holidays in the first year). Additional programs include the Deferred Compensation Plan, Flex Spending Account, and NY 529 College Savings Program.

Employees may qualify for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. More details on benefits are available on the New York State Office of Employee Relations website.

• Thirty college credits in any subject.

• Thirty college credits in horticulture, forestry, plant pathology, botany, entomology, environmental studies/plant science, or a biological science primarily related to the scientific study of plants.

The position requires extensive travel. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State and have access to a vehicle when required, or otherwise demonstrate capacity to meet travel needs.

Applicants must apply online by July 16, 2026, uploading resume, transcript, and cover letter.

Laura DeBraccio, Human Resources, (518) 457‑3216 or Harvest Your Potential .gov.

The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodations as necessary for qualified persons with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Division:
  Plant Industry
• Negotiating Unit: PEF
• Location:
  
  Suffolk County
• Number of Vacancies:
  One
• Status of Vacancy:
  Full‑time;
  Temporary, Seasonal
• Hours Per Week: 40 Hours
• Jurisdictional Class:
  Non‑Competitive
• Civil Service List(s):
  No Eligible List Exists