Environmental Specialist Ii

ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II -

This is a professional position responsible for the protection, certification, and regulation of native and cultivated flora within the state of Florida. This position conducts independent site inspections for the purpose of minimizing or eliminating environmental and agricultural harm associated with the introduction of invading plant species, plant pests and pathogens, and from the improper harvesting and trade of native endangered plants.

Conducts field diagnostic tasks using approved sampling methods and equipment to collect laboratory samples. Detects, examines, collects, prepares, and submits insects and other arthropods, plant disease and soil samples indexed to the appropriate technical bureau for confirmation. Initiates appropriate regulatory action upon field diagnosis. Obtains additional information using various investigative techniques, including reference materials, chemical treatments, source materials and interviews with authoritative sources to assist in proper diagnosis.

Monitors native and horticultural material within the state for the detection of exotic plant pests, and the population and distribution of domestic or introduced plant pests. Ensures that all nurseries, stock dealers and plant brokers located within an assigned area are properly registered with the department and that plant material offered for sale meets the requirements of the Florida Viability Law.

Maintains annual nursery inventory by plant categories. Initiates and implements regulatory action to curtail the spread of various injurious pests. Enforces adherence to Chapter 581, Florida Statutes, and appropriate rules.

Conducts plant pest detection surveys in agricultural and residential environs. Places and services fruit fly detection devices in accordance with the Florida Fruit Fly Detection Manual. Maintains knowledge of how to access and interpret plant export regulations of states and countries. Maintains Federal Authorized Certification Official for the issuance Federal Phytosanitary Certificates. Issues state or federal documents appropriate to the destination requirements of countries, ensuring adherence to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species and the Federal Endangered Species Act.

Verifies import permits to determine the requirements of the importing country and witnesses required treatments. Inspects plant material (cut flowers, nursery stock and organic produce) and other high-risk commodities from other states and foreign countries for the purpose of excluding plant pests. Inspects and monitors plants grown under federal post-entry quarantine regulations. Verifies the location (habitat) and identifies those plants that are listed as endangered or commercially exploited and verifies compliance of all permits issued for endangered and commercially exploited plants.

Directs payment of fees from nurseries and stock dealers, including any that are delinquent. Initiates monthly billings for fees that are due the department for special inspections as specified in rule 5B-2, Florida Administrative Code. Assists and/or participates in the organization of special programs such as plant pest eradication projects, exotic pest surveys and protocols within the state, including implementing chemical and biological controls, surveys, and regulatory enforcement actions.

These activities may necessitate absences from assigned headquarters, unusual working hours, and may require serving as a trainer for employees hired for these special programs.

Resolves consumer complaints or, when necessary, refers them to the proper agency. Attends meetings and workshops and gives presentations to keep the public informed concerning department activities. Maintains proper records of all functions and submits timely and accurate reports of all work performed. Performs related work as directed by management.

Knowledge of techniques used in inspecting plants or other agricultural products. Knowledge of the regulatory treatment of plants. Knowledge of pesticide labeling restrictions. Ability to detect plant pests. Ability to compile, organize and analyze data and make recommendations. Ability to interpret rules and regulations. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Ability to work in extreme hot, cold, or humid temperature environments. Ability to lift and transport 25-pounds and bend repetitiously. Ability to conduct inspections in natural and cultivated areas with uneven ground. Ability to operate a computer to access and retrieve electronic information.