Plant Protection Technician

Major Duties:

Plant Protection Technicians play an important role in the detection and management of invasive species in Illinois. This position will support two APHIS-PPQ program areas during the 2024 field season: (1) trapping and visual surveys to detect exotic plant pests, and (2) plant pest treatment and control. The Technician will:

• Install and maintain insect traps
• Collect, screen, and process samples
• Apply chemical pesticide agents targeting agricultural crop pests
• Closely monitor contract pesticide treatments, conduct quality assurance
• Release biocontrol agents against emerald ash borer and Japanese beetle
• Record survey data in local and national databases

This work will occur in a variety of environments throughout northern Illinois, primarily forest preserves, parks, urban and industrial areas, rail yards, and ports of entry. The Technician will work both independently and as part of a team. 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.

Basic Requirements:   

Employee must have a valid US driver’s license. Employee 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. Experience and/or licensure to apply pesticides in Illinois is a plus. Successful candidates may be required to obtain an Illinois pesticide applicator license. For more information about qualification standards, please visit the OPM website.