Do you have an interest in horticulture, invasive species, entomology or public outreach? The Plant Health Section at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets is recruiting two seasonal technicians to assist with field work this summer. 

The positions will start mid-May 2025 and run for approximately 4 months. However, start date and duration are flexible to accommodate current college students. Positions will be full time (40 hrs per week) during core field season of summer with possibility of part time work in the fall.

Overview:

This position will perform duties at the Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets in support of the Plant Health team’s seasonal field survey work. The main goal of the position is to assist with the Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) and Plant Protection Act (PPA) trapping and visual survey programs.

Job duties:

• Work independently to set, collect & maintain CAPS and PPA traps for invasive insects
• Conduct nursery inspections for pests & disease with oversight from Plant Health team
• Assist with plant health regulatory activities as needed
• Provide outreach materials to public about invasive pests such as Spotted Lanternfly and Jumping Worm

Preferred candidates will demonstrate the following:

• Ability to travel around the state and work independently in field conditions
• Familiarity with the horticultural industry
• Basic plant and pest identification
• Proficiency with Excel and data collection/management
• Ability to interact with the public while representing VAAFM

Minimum qualifications:

• 2 years of coursework towards a plant science, agriculture, forestry, entomology, or related degree
• Experience conducting field work, recording data, and collaborating in a scientific environment
• Valid Driver’s License (vehicle will be provided)
• Proficient in speaking English; familiarity with Spanish language may be useful as well.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.