Entomologist, Alternative Mosquito Control and Applied Research (AMCAR )

Agency: Harris County Texas
Location: Houston, Texas
Job Category: Full Time Positions
Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Last Date to Apply: 4/28/2018 11:59 PM Central
Website: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx/jobs/2027940/entomologist-alternative-mosquito-control-and-applied-research-amcar
Description: As Entomologist, Alternative Mosquito Control & Applied Research (AMCAR) assists with and conducts applied research projects associated with surveillance and integrated control of mosquitoes and other vectors. Field and Laboratory Surveys larval and adult mosquito habitats appropriate for target projects. Locates sites; sets and collects mosquito traps when necessary. Sorts and identifies mosquitoes to species. Provides accurate documentation of larval and adult mosquito surveys. Prepares equipment and datasheets for field evaluations. Records field data; enters data in the required computer format/database. Assists in development of new mosquito surveillance and/or control methods. Uses pesticides according to federal, state and local regulations and guidelines. Conducts molecular biology and assists investigations with mosquito ecology. Assists in in Insectary maintenance and laboratory testing. Oversees maintenance of mosquito colonies and organism cultures as needed. Assists in conducting laboratory bioassays against immature and adult feral mosquito species. Works across sections within the Mosquito and Vector Control Division (MVCD) outside of the normally assigned duties to further its mission. Supervisory Supervises field employees routinely, and ensures preventive maintenance on AMCAR branch equipment is performed. Supervises, documents, and maintains field collections of feral mosquitoes used for testing purposes within assigned insectary. Trains employees in the conducting of necessary section tasks as required. Fabricates and maintains equipment required for insectary operations, field evaluations or laboratory bioassays. Administrative Maintains and submits timely personnel, equipment-related reports, and purchase orders. Coordinates with inter/intra departmental, academic, local, state, and federal entities as required. Provides quality assurance on all AMCAR branch related, or other assigned activities. Other Performs other duties as assigned, including special tasks involved in response to an emergency event.
Qualifications: Requirements Bachelor's degree in Entomology, Biology, Microbiology or other related science fields from an accredited university; and One (1) year of work experience in a mosquito control lab setting, mosquito research or mosquito surveillance and integrated control. OR Master of Science degree in Entomology, Biology, Microbiology or in a related science field. PLUS Experience working with all Microsoft Office products. Knowledge of mosquito bionomics, operational, and applied entomology. Must have considerable organizational skills. Must be able to read and comprehend map. Valid driver's license (Texas upon hire) and must maintain a good driving record while employed with Harris County Public Health. Additional Requirements Must obtain a Texas Department of State Health Services Certified Pesticide Applicator License within one (1) year of hire. Environmental and Physical Requirements Must be in good physical health and have ability to lift up to 70 lbs. Ability to tolerate high heat and humidity for extended periods of time outdoors while working in a variety of urban and natural environments.
Job Number: 7
Contact Phone: 713-274-5445