OPS Apiary Inspector - 42915077

OPS APIARY INSPECTOR - 42915077

This professional position is responsible for the protection, certification, and regulation of the apiary industry within the state of Florida through inspections for destructive and regulated honey bee pests and diseases.

Schedule necessary appointments with beekeepers and perform inspections of honey bee colonies for destructive and regulated pests and diseases. Conduct field diagnostic tests on bee hives and use approved sampling methods and equipment to collect samples for submission to the appropriate technical bureau for laboratory diagnostics. Initiate and implement appropriate regulatory action upon diagnosis, including quarantine and supervising the destruction or approved treatment of infected honey bee colonies to curtail the spread of injurious honey bee pests and diseases. Calculate, collect and remit registration fees. Ensure that all beekeepers in assigned district are registered with the Department, inspected, and in compliance with Chapter 586, Florida Statutes, and appropriate rules.

Maintain accurate records in appropriate database for assigned beekeepers. Perform special inspections upon request. Collect samples for certification purposes and issue certifications and permits, when appropriate. Collect or invoice special inspection fees.

Respond to a resolve consumer complaints regarding honey bees or refer them to the proper agency. Coordinate and investigate bee kill complaints. Assist other divisions with honey bee-related issues, when necessary.

Place, monitor, and maintain bait hives at high-risk locations around Florida for the early detection of injurious honey bee pests or diseases. Cooperate and collaborate with federal, state, academic and industry partners in the detection of feral or introduced honey bees, pests, diseases, as well as research projects to benefit the industry.

Timely and accurate submission of reports, including inspection reports, time sheets, vehicle logs, and travel vouchers. Maintain all state equipment, including state vehicles, in safe operating condition and according to established guidelines.

Stay informed of all beekeeping matters, including changes in state and federal laws. Be an ambassador for the state of Florida through public outreach about honey bees. Attendance and presentations may be required at meetings or workshops of the apiary industry, bureau, or other governmental training sessions.

Assist on special programs, such as plant pest eradication projects. These activities may necessitate absences from assigned headquarter or unusual working hours.

Performs related work as directed by supervisor.

Knowledge of techniques used in the inspecting and management of honeybee colonies. Knowledge of the regulatory treatment of honeybee colonies. Knowledge of pesticide labeling restrictions. Ability to work in close proximity to stinging insects and to be stung. Ability to detect honeybee diseases and pests and to take appropriate regulatory action. Ability to lift and transport 70 pound objects and to work in extreme hot and cold temperatures. Ability to conduct inspections in natural and cultivated areas with uneven ground. Ability to operate computers and mobile devices and be proficient with email, spreadsheets, word processing software, and data entry. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Ability to work independently without direct supervision for prolonged periods of time. Ability to adapt to changes and remain calm under stressful situations. Ability to interpret rules and regulations. Ability to drive frequently and for long distances to reach inspections. Ability to deal with the public in a tactful and courteous manner.