The Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for our State Entomologist in Helena, Montana. Position is open until filled with first review of candidates May 5, 2025.

The mission of the Department of Agriculture is Serving Montana Agriculture and growing prosperity under the Big Sky.

The Agricultural Sciences Division provide agricultural producers and consumers, commodity and environmental protection through the administration of the Montana laws and rules in the areas of pesticides, groundwater monitoring, noxious weed control, feeds, fertilizers, seed, anhydrous ammonia, grain commodity dealers, commodity warehousemen, nurseries, produce, mint, honey bees, alfalfa leaf cutting bees and other services including organic certification, pest management consulting, laboratory analysis, pest surveys, export certification and quarantines.

Job Overview:

The State Entomologist oversees the Department’s apiary, alfalfa leafcutting bee (ALCB), and general entomological programs. This position provides regulatory oversight for the Montana beekeeping industry and provides analysis of alfalfa leafcutting bee health for the Montana Alfalfa Seed Committee; plans, coordinates and conducts inspections and investigations; provides education, training, and technical and compliance assistance, and makes regulatory decisions.  General entomological duties are required from the public and other agencies.

As a State Entomologist you will:

• Plan, prepare, and implement inspections for agricultural programs.
• Collect or direct collection of samples for official plant or soil analysis.
• Maintain standard operating procedures, manuals, reports, data, and other relevant documentation for agricultural programs and operations.
• Provide information or recommendations to best use land, promote plant growth, and avoid or correct agricultural problems. 
• Coordinate communications and technical support services between agricultural program staff, inspectors, clients, community organizations, and the public.
• Respond to inquiries for agricultural programs and requirements.
• Conduct plant and soil research, investigations, and prepare reports.
• Prepare and deliver training courses, seminars, and workshops for agricultural program topics. 
• Create and interpret laws, policies, procedures, and rules for agricultural programs and operations.
• Provide the results of regulatory, research, and agricultural projects to other professionals and the public.
• As subject-matter expert, provide guidance and consultation for disputes and initiatives. 

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Exposure to conditions and/or chemicals common to agriculture and animals. 
• May work with hazardous chemicals.
• Frequently works outside in varying terrain and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions.
• May work long, irregular hours. 
• May operate a variety of vehicles, equipment, and trailers.
• Ability to manage, mediate, and handle confrontational situations that often result from the regulatory nature of the positions.
• Some work conditions require protective clothing and/or a respirator.
• Ability to lift 50lbs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge in the concepts, theories, principles, and practices of arthropod taxonomy, morphology, physiology, and ecology.
• Knowledge of principles, methods, and techniques of field data surveying, scientific sampling, and analysis.
• Knowledge of insecticides, fumigants, and related pesticides commonly used in agriculture, forestry, and urban environments; and insecticidal modes of action, residual characteristics, non-target problems, and persistence as related to Montana's environmental conditions.
• Knowledge of applicable pesticide, apiary and plant protection laws, administrative rules, and regulations; use of biological control agents and integrated pest management techniques.
• Skills in the safe and effective use of pesticide application equipment and in establishing project parameters according to site-specific conditions.
• Skills in applying inspection and investigation procedures and operating specialized survey, sampling, and laboratory equipment (e.g., X-rays, traps, etc.) is required.
• Strong computer skills including MS Office programs, database software, and web-based apps.
• Ability to plan, design, organize, and coordinate a variety survey and sampling projects; adapt established project parameters according to site-specific conditions and/or unusual or unprecedented circumstances (e.g., weather conditions, accidents involving pesticides, etc.).
• Ability to review, evaluate, and develop technical reports and training manuals and materials on insect pest management; direct and motivate others toward common goals and objectives; prioritize work according to multiple projects and available resources; and the ability to plan, organize, and conduct scientific research as well as analyze and interpret data results. 
• Knowledge of bee biology, commercial beekeeping practices, and basic knowledge of honeybee pests and diseases.
• Skills in basic insect identification.
• Knowledge of principles, and practices of agricultural science, entomology, botany, plant pathology, and taxonomy.
• Skills in translating complex technical and scientific information to broad audiences and coordinating programs involving people with diverse backgrounds, private businesses, members of the public, and others.
• Ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically both verbally and in writing.
• Initiative to work in a self-directed and proactive manner.
• Solution driven and ability to problem solve.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in animal science, plant science, agricultural science, environmental science, or closely related field.
• Master’s degree in entomology.
• Two years of job-related work experience. 
• Other combinations of education or experience may be substituted.

Benefits:

Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation package!  Upon date of hire, employees working at least half-time for more than six months are eligible for state paid premiums toward employee “core” medical, dental, and basic life insurance coverage.  Employees earn 15 working days of annual leave, 12 days of sick leave and 10-11 paid holidays each year. Membership in a Retirement System - vesting criteria applies.  Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF.