We at the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) take our responsibilities to you very seriously and are committed to protecting and promoting Georgia's agriculture through superior service and leadership. 

·        The mission of the GDA is to protect consumers, promote agriculture locally and globally, and assist our customers using education, technology, and a professional workforce.

·        The vision of the GDA is to continue to be a globally recognized leader in agricultural excellence through a commitment to safety, quality, growth, and innovation.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

This position is assigned to the following county:

·        JENKINS

·        BULLOCH

·        BURKE

·        CANDLER

·        EFFINGHAM

·        EMANUEL

·        GLASCOCK

·        JEFFERSON

·        JOHNSON

·        RICHMOND

·        SVREVEN

·        TREUTLEN

·        WASHINGTON

Applicant must reside in this county or the surrounding area, or be willing to relocate.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under direct supervision, Learns Plant Protection Programs

1.     Inspects live plant growers and dealers (sod farms, nurseries, tree farms, etc.) to ensure compliance with state regulations and proper maintenance of plants. 

2.     Verifies compliance with Department-issued agreements and certifications for interstate and international export of plants, fruits, vegetables, etc.

3.     Performs state and federal phytosanitary certification inspections as requested

4.     Performs apiary (bee) inspections as requested

5.     Monitors crops and/or environs for specific agricultural pests

6.     Participates in invasive species detection and eradication activities

Performs other Duties as Assigned

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:   Preference will be given to applicants who, in addition to meeting the Minimum Qualifications, possess knowledge, skills, and abilities in the following areas:

·               Completion of a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, biological sciences, or a directly related field OR Ownership or management experience in an agricultural or horticultural business.

NOTE: The Georgia Department of Agriculture conducts background checks on all final candidates. The hiring of applicants is contingent upon satisfactory employment verification results, background, criminal records investigations, and motor vehicle reports.

HOW TO APPLY:  Resumes may be submitted by adding to your profile in Team Georgia Careers.

·        Via Team Georgia Careers http://team.georgia.gov/careers/

Please note: Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to respond to phone/email inquiries regarding application status. Only candidates selected to move forward in the hiring process will be contacted.

The GDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will be considered, but may not necessarily receive an interview. Due to this office's large volume of submissions, information concerning application and/or interview status cannot be provided.  Selected applicants will be contacted for the next steps in the interview process.  Applicants who are not selected will not receive a notification. 

Please get in touch with the Human Resources Office at (404) 656-3615 if you need accommodation.

** The position will be closed once a suitable candidate is identified. *