Plant Protection and Quarantine Technician

Vacancy Announcement
position:
Number of Positions: Series & Grade:
Pay Range: Location: Schedule:
Expected Duration:
Plant Protection Technician 1 vacancy
GS-0421-03/04/05
$15.54 -$19.52 per hour Champaign, IL
40 hours per week, Monday through Friday Limited Appointment (approximately 140 working days from 
start date or December 31ˢᵗ, whichever is reached first, equals ~ 6 Months)

Announcement Closing Date:  March 05, 2026
Major Duties:
Plant Protection Technicians play an important role in detection and management of invasive species in Illinois. This Technician position will support APHIS-PPQ programs during the 2026 field season: (1) trapping and visual surveys to detect invasive exotic tree pests and (2) releases of parasitoid wasps for biological control of emerald ash borer. (3) assist PHSS officers with other work as assigned. The Technician will install and maintain insect traps, collect and screen samples, evaluate field sites for biological control suitability, release biocontrol agents, record data in local and national databases, assist on various pest surveys and inspection of agricultural products. This work will require working in a variety of environments throughout Central and Southern Illinois, including forest preserves, parks, urban and industrial areas, warehouses and rail yards. The Technician will also be expected to participate in outreach supporting these programs through daily interactions with the public while working in the field as well as occasional involvement in organized outreach events. The Technician will work both independently and as part of a team.

Basic Requirements:
Applicant must be a US Citizen. Applicant must have a valid drivers license. Applicant must have completed college-level coursework in a relevant scientific field(s), such as entomology, botany, ecology, etc. experience with identification of insects and/or trees is a plus. For more information about qualification standards, please visit the OPM website. OPM Website

Selected applicant must complete background check and provide official fingerprints. Selected applicant must pass USDA Security Awareness Training and Defensive Driver Training prior to employment.