04/11/2000 52241

ENTOMOLOGY PROGRAM MANAGER

DEFINITION: This is professional managerial work in the field of entomology in the Department of Agriculture's Plant Protection Division.

The employee in this class is responsible for directing and coordinating entomology field and laboratory studies involving survey/detection, identification, biological studies, bee inspection, certification and registration activities, methods development and pest management; specialty areas include, but are not limited to acarology, apiary, botany, and insect taxonomy. The employee oversees the operation of diagnostic facilities to identify insects, mites, plants, and pests affecting honeybees for the benefit of Pennsylvania agriculture, other industries and residents. Work includes supervising investigations in support of regulatory and pest management programs and coordinating with other state and federal agencies. Responsibilities include managing the work of professional staff involved in Entomology programs and may include supervision of other professional and technical employees engaged in related work activities. Duties also include supervising the maintenance of facilities and equipment. Work is performed independently within standards of Bureau policy and is reviewed by a supervisor through conferences and review of written reports.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Supervises professional staff in charge of statewide programs in survey/detection, diagnosis, certification and registration, methods development and disease management in support of plant regulatory activities.

Oversees the development of certification and registration programs designed to provide growers/producers with the best management practices to obtain "pest free" plants and plant products and pest-free honeybee colonies.

Develops regulations required for implementation of programs.

Supervises the development of new methods enabling faster, more efficient isolation and identification of weeds, insects and mites.

Supervises the design, interpretation, and preparation of technical reports of surveys designed to determine economic impacts of insect/mite and weed pests of plants and pests of honeybees.

Coordinates all Entomology programs, including cooperative programs with other agencies.

Directs the development of training programs for seasonal and permanent employees and the hiring of seasonal employees.

Coordinates the ordering of supplies, equipment, literature and other items essential to Entomology programs.

Coordinates the management and inventorying of all facilities, equipment and other materials for the Entomology programs.

Prepares budget information for inclusion in the Plant Protection Division's budget request to the Department of Agriculture.

Participates in the development of regulatory policies pertaining to Entomology programs.

Prepares reports, articles and other informational materials.

Attends and addresses state, national or international meetings of professional organizations, trade groups, etc.

Reviews performance standards and conducts performance evaluations for professional and technical staff in Entomology.

Employees in this class may participate in the performance of their subordinates' work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of entomology, including survey/detection, biology, diagnostics/identification, apiculture, botany, regulatory plant protection, and other specialized areas.

Knowledge of principles, practices, and techniques and laboratory and field equipment used in all entomology, including recent developments.

Knowledge of federal and state laws, rules, and regulations related to entomology.

Knowledge of agricultural production and impact of insects and weeds on Pennsylvania agriculture.

Ability to assign, review and supervise the work of professional, technical and seasonal employees.

Ability to act promptly and accurately in plant pest identification and management.

Ability to effectively coordinate and manage statewide programs in entomology.

Ability to work with people in other divisions and the regional offices to promote cooperative projects and good communications.

Ability to communicate effectively with scientists, colleagues, field staff, private industry, and the public.

Ability to properly manage and effectively use facilities, equipment and supplies.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two years of experience as an Entomologist 2 or as a Botany and Weed Specialist, Agriculture;

                                                                                                                                                                       or

A master's degree in entomology or a related field and three years of regulatory entomology experience;

                                                                                                                                                                       or

A bachelor's degree in entomology or a related field and four years of regulatory entomology experience;

                                                                                                                                                                       or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training which affords the required knowledge, skills and abilities.