JOB TITLE: PLANT PATHOLOGIST

JOB CODE: 56300

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The Plant Pathology job series describes work in diagnosing and controlling the spread of plant pathogens.

DEFINITION: This is professional work diagnosing plant diseases and participating in the implementation of statewide plant certification and survey programs for plant diseases that impact Pennsylvania’s agriculture and natural resources.

An employee in this job performs diagnostic work to identify plant pathogens and recommend methods to eradicate or control the spread of plant diseases. Work involves conducting laboratory testing for suspected plant disease organisms; determining the symptoms, causes, and epidemiology of disease outbreaks; and providing technical training to Plant Inspectors and other staff on plant disease symptom identification and sampling techniques. Work includes implementing clean stock certification programs, participating in survey and outreach programs related to plant pests and diseases, and preparing presentations and articles to inform grower groups and the public about current pathology concerns. Work may include leading technical staff in activities such as conducting disease survey and sampling projects and maintaining greenhouse facilities. Work is performed independently and reviewed by a professional supervisor through meetings, conferences, and review of written reports for program effectiveness and results.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Applies the scientific disciplines of bacteriology, epidemiology, mycology, nematology, phytotoxicology, or virology to diagnose plant diseases.

• Performs serological, molecular, and other diagnostic tests to detect and identify plant pathogenic fungi, viruses, bacteria, and nematodes.

• Prepares or directs the preparation of media, stock solutions, and buffers for use in laboratory testing.

• Implements methods and techniques for improving diagnostic services.

• Provides guidance to lab technicians performing diagnostic tests and ensures adherence to safety and quality standards.

• Implements plant certification programs to prevent and control the spread of plant pathogens in nursery stock.

• Assists with the maintenance of greenhouse facilities.

• Implements studies and surveys to determine the cause of plant diseases and appropriate methods to control the spread of pathogens.

• Records and summarizes data from laboratory and greenhouse experiments.

• Provides training and technical information to Plant Inspectors and other trade professionals.

• Prepares and presents information related to plant pathology issues and trends to the public, community growers’ groups, and related organizations.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the procedures, methods, and techniques used to detect, identify, and manage plant pathogens.

• Knowledge of plant disease characteristics and symptoms.

• Knowledge of scientific methods used in diagnostic work.

• Skill in the use of laboratory equipment and instruments.

• Ability to identify fungi, bacteria, viruses, or nematodes associated with or causing plant diseases.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• Two years as a Plant Industry Lab Technician (commonwealth title):

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.