Definition
Diagnoses plant diseases for a statewide program of prevention, suppression and eradication of plant infestation affecting nursery stock, agriculture plants and plants products; performs related work as required.
Work Examples
Diagnoses diseases of plants by making field observations of diseased specimens, or examining affected host material forwarded from various sources throughout the state.
Inspects plants at nurseries, nursery dealers and greenhouses to identify insects, diseases and other pests.
Inspects nursery stock and seeds being shipped to foreign counties to assure that they are free of diseases and insects.
Determines various methods to eliminate plant disease and infestations and informs nursery owners, etc., of methods of correction and control.
Conducts laboratory analyses on infected plants in order to diagnose the cause of disease.
Participates in plant pest surveys and research programs in cooperation with college extension services, federal agencies, and other agencies by setting up guidelines to obtain data, etc.
Acts as a consultant on plant disease programs by recommending techniques to be used in disease control projects.
Prepares and maintains records and technical reports concerning inspection, certification, research and consultation activities.
Represents the Department of Agriculture at meetings and conferences concerning plants and their diseases.
Competencies Required
- Knowledge of biology, botany, entomology, plant pathology and related sciences necessary to perform inspections and research.
Knowledge of the methods of treatment for the prevention, suppression and eradication of plant pests.
Knowledge of plant physiology and the effects of diseases.
Knowledge of laboratory techniques used to diagnose plant diseases.
Knowledge of the Iowa Crop Pest Act as it relates to inspections.
Ability to identify plant pests that harmfully affect plant life, and apply methods of control.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others in private industry and government agencies in order to facilitate inspections and consultations.
Skill in the safe and proper use of laboratory equipment and supplies.
Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Refrains from dishonest behavior.
Works and communicates with all clients and customers providing polite, quality professional service.
Displays a high level of initiative, effort, attention to detail and commitment by completing assignments efficiently with minimal supervision.
Follows policy, cooperates with supervisors and aligns behavior with the goals of the organization.
Fosters and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, group identity and team spirit throughout the organization.
- Exchanges information with individuals or groups effectively by listening and responding appropriately.
Education, Experience, and Special Requirements
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Botany, Entomology or Plant Pathology and one year of full-time experience analyzing plant life infestations to determine their causes and recommending possible solutions;
OR
an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting 30 semester hours of accredited graduate level course work in biology, botany, entomology, or plant pathology for each year of required experience.
Notes
Applicants must be able to obtain a valid driver’s license; travel is required.