Plant Pathologist

Are you skilled in diagnosing plant diseases and eager to apply your expertise to safeguard Pennsylvania's agricultural landscape and natural resources? If so, this opportunity might be the perfect fit for you! The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is actively seeking a Plant Pathologist to join the Plant Protection Division, where your knowledge will play a crucial role in enhancing the health of crops and ecosystems across the state. This is an exciting chance to make a significant impact in the field of agriculture while working alongside a dedicated team of professionals. Do not miss out on the opportunity to contribute to the protection and sustainability of Pennsylvania's vital agricultural resources-apply today and become a part of our mission!

In this position, you will be responsible for conducting applied research and providing diagnostic laboratory services related to plant inspection, certification, and disease survey initiatives. Your role will also involve taking the lead on at least one key aspect of the Plant Pathology program, which may include areas such as nematology, virology, mycology, or bacteriology. You will be tasked with implementing established methods and techniques for the collection of samples and the identification of plant pathogens, ensuring that all processes adhere to validated protocols. This will require a thorough understanding of the relevant scientific principles and the ability to apply them effectively in a laboratory setting, contributing to the overall success of the program and the health of plant populations.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with 30-minute lunch.
• Telework:You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time up to 2 days per pay period. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
  

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Two years as a Plant Industry Lab Technician (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration): or
• Two years of professional laboratory experience diagnosing plant diseases, and a bachelor's degree in agricultural studies, botany, horticulture, environmental science, microbiology, or a related field that includes 15 college credits in plant sciences; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes fifteen college credits in plant sciences.

• This specific position requires possession of a valid non-commercial Class C driver's license that is not under suspension.
• PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements will eliminate you from consideration for this position.

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx and click the Veterans' Preference tab or contact us at ra-cs-vetpreference@pa.gov.

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.