Class Code: 05160
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES –
HUMAN RESOURCES ENTERPRISE
PLANT PATHOLOGIST
DEFINITION
Under general direction, 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.
The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.
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. Exhibits honesty and integrity. Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or
unethical behavior.
Works and communicates with internal and external
clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and
cooperative manner. Committed to
quality service.
Displays a high level of initiative, effort and
commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Works with minimal supervision. Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention
to detail.
Responds appropriately to supervision. Makes an effort to follow policy and
cooperate with supervisors.
Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals
of the organization.
Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust,
and group identity. Fosters commitment
and team spirit.
Expresses information to individuals or groups
effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the
information. Listens to others and
responds appropriately.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SPECIAL
REQUIREMENTS
Graduation from a four year college or
university with an undergraduate degree in biology, botany, entomology or plant
pathology and one year of experience analyzing plant life infestations to
determine their causes and recommending possible solutions;
OR
an equivalent combination of experience and education,
substituting thirty semester hours of graduate course work in biology, botany,
entomology, or plant pathology for one year of required work experience.
NOTE:
Applicants must be able to obtain a valid
Iowa driver license; travel is required.
Effective Date: 8/19/83 CLS