State of Washington
Pesticide Compliance Investigator | In-Training
State of Washington, Olympia, Washington, United States
Overview
AGRICULTURE - A Cornerstone of Washington's Economy The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) serves the state through service, regulation, and advocacy to keep agriculture viable and vital while protecting consumers, public health, and the environment. The agency works with farmers and ranchers and touches the lives of millions of people locally, nationally, and abroad. The agency comprises about 780 employees and can grow close to 1,000 employees at peak seasonal times. To learn more and view additional openings, please visit the Employment Page. The Opportunity
The Agricultural Environmental Services Division protects the agricultural viability, human and environmental health, and natural resources of Washington. Work in this division covers statewide regulatory programs and technical assistance in pesticides, dairy nutrient management, cannabis/hemp, and fertilizers, with environmental services focused on science policy, equity and environmental justice, aquaculture and rural policy, commodity commissions, soil health, water quality and quantity, pesticide stewardship and education, and land use. The Pesticide Compliance Investigator is a senior-level position requiring in-depth knowledge of duties and requirements. This role works with other Pesticide Compliance staff to conduct inspections and investigations related to the manufacture, distribution, storage, and use of pesticides. In addition to routine inspections, this position may handle high-profile, multi-jurisdictional, media-covered, politically sensitive cases and may serve as a lead in inspections, investigations, or specific subject areas. The incumbent may assist Area Supervisors or other managers with mentoring, training, and providing expertise. This position is based in the Yakima office and primarily serves Kittitas and Yakima Counties. The Pesticide Regulatory Specialist 2 is represented by the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA). This is an in-training opportunity and may be hired at Environmental Specialist 3 or Environmental Specialist 4, depending on qualifications. An in-training plan provides on-the-job experience toward moving to the next job classification on the plan upon successful completion. Salary and In-Training Details
Based on qualifications, the annual salary ranges are: Environmental Specialist 3 (In-Training):
Range 53, Step A $56,880 – Step L $74,724 annually. Environmental Specialist 4:
Range 59, Step A $66,012 – Step L $86,712 annually. Responsibilities
Include but are not limited to the following: Conduct inspections and investigations for compliance with pesticide regulations, including routine and for-cause inspections of pesticide users, distributors, and producers. Initiate inspections or investigations when potential violations are observed; investigate violations related to pesticide use, distribution, storage, disposal, recordkeeping, licensing, and other pesticide laws and rules. Conduct interviews and collect statements; document evidence; maintain chain of custody for samples; track actions in program databases; create site maps and determine legal site descriptions. Follow division protocol for entry rights and obtain warrants when access is denied; conduct field surveillance and interpret pesticide labels for compliance. Execute inspections of equipment, storage areas, worker protection standards, and related containment; prepare professional reports defensible in administrative hearings; initiate on-site corrective action when necessary; review legal documents for civil penalties and provide sworn testimony as needed. Serve warrants and assist with public disclosure requests; coordinate inspection and investigation activities with local, state, and federal agencies; collaborate on special projects and cross-agency efforts as requested. Education and Technical Assistance Develop and deliver public presentations on pesticide-related issues and laws; monitor and evaluate recertification activities; provide training for pesticide exams and assist with certification of applicators, dealers, and consultants. Respond to complex inquiries requiring a strong understanding of pesticide laws and program policies; provide technical assistance and outreach to the public and regulated community. Coordination and Collaboration Coordinate inspection and investigation activities with other agencies; identify and consult with agencies with overlapping jurisdiction; assist with program reviews, special projects, or collaboration needs (e.g., exam review for compliance, registration and Technical Services and Education, NRAS/partners). Who Should Apply?
Environmental Specialist 3 (In-Training) Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in environmental, physical or natural sciences, environmental planning or related fields, and two years of professional-level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning. Master’s degree substitutes for one year of experience; PhD substitutes for more experience; or one year of experience as Environmental Specialist 2. Additional qualifying experience may substitute for education. Environmental Specialist 4 Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in environmental/physical/natural sciences or environmental planning plus five years of professional-level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning, including one year equivalent to Environmental Specialist 3 or above or two years equivalent to Environmental Specialist 2 or above. Master’s or PhD with appropriate substitutions may apply. Other paths include two years of experience as Environmental Specialist 3. Special Requirements: Eligible to obtain upon hire: WSDA Public Operator/Consultant Pesticide License with endorsements. U.S. EPA FIFRA Inspector Credentials. WA State Investigator CORE and ADVANCED training. 40-hour Hazardous Materials Training (HAZ MAT) with annual refresher. Medical evaluation, training, and respirator fit testing. Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Experience in natural resources, agricultural/fertilizer or related fields; experience with pesticides/fertilizers regulatory requirements; ability to read and interpret pesticide labels. Strong written and verbal communication, report writing, customer service, and public speaking skills; bilingual in English and Spanish desirable. Employee Benefits
Healthy work/life balance with potential flexible schedules and teleworking. Comprehensive benefits program, including dependent care, flexible spending accounts, student loan relief programs, tuition waiver, deferred compensation, and leave benefits. 12 paid holidays and vacation/leave accruals; PPE provided; participation in the Commute Trip Reduction program. For more information about the Washington State Department of Agriculture, visit the WSDA website. How to Apply
You must complete your careers.wa.gov profile and answer supplemental questions. In addition to the online application, attach: A resume detailing experience and education A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications Three professional references By submitting materials, you certify that information is true and can be verified. Applications with comments like "see attachments" may be considered incomplete. If you have technical difficulties, contact NEOGOV support. The initial screening will be based on the application contents and may require documentation. Equity at WSDA The Department of Agriculture values diversity and inclusion and supports the PEAR and HEAL plans. We strive to hire a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and provides equal opportunity employment regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Contact For questions about this position or the online application, contact Recruitment at the WSDA Human Resources Office. Background checks will be conducted prior to appointment. Veterans’ preference and disability accommodations information is available through the WSDA recruitment portal.
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AGRICULTURE - A Cornerstone of Washington's Economy The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) serves the state through service, regulation, and advocacy to keep agriculture viable and vital while protecting consumers, public health, and the environment. The agency works with farmers and ranchers and touches the lives of millions of people locally, nationally, and abroad. The agency comprises about 780 employees and can grow close to 1,000 employees at peak seasonal times. To learn more and view additional openings, please visit the Employment Page. The Opportunity
The Agricultural Environmental Services Division protects the agricultural viability, human and environmental health, and natural resources of Washington. Work in this division covers statewide regulatory programs and technical assistance in pesticides, dairy nutrient management, cannabis/hemp, and fertilizers, with environmental services focused on science policy, equity and environmental justice, aquaculture and rural policy, commodity commissions, soil health, water quality and quantity, pesticide stewardship and education, and land use. The Pesticide Compliance Investigator is a senior-level position requiring in-depth knowledge of duties and requirements. This role works with other Pesticide Compliance staff to conduct inspections and investigations related to the manufacture, distribution, storage, and use of pesticides. In addition to routine inspections, this position may handle high-profile, multi-jurisdictional, media-covered, politically sensitive cases and may serve as a lead in inspections, investigations, or specific subject areas. The incumbent may assist Area Supervisors or other managers with mentoring, training, and providing expertise. This position is based in the Yakima office and primarily serves Kittitas and Yakima Counties. The Pesticide Regulatory Specialist 2 is represented by the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA). This is an in-training opportunity and may be hired at Environmental Specialist 3 or Environmental Specialist 4, depending on qualifications. An in-training plan provides on-the-job experience toward moving to the next job classification on the plan upon successful completion. Salary and In-Training Details
Based on qualifications, the annual salary ranges are: Environmental Specialist 3 (In-Training):
Range 53, Step A $56,880 – Step L $74,724 annually. Environmental Specialist 4:
Range 59, Step A $66,012 – Step L $86,712 annually. Responsibilities
Include but are not limited to the following: Conduct inspections and investigations for compliance with pesticide regulations, including routine and for-cause inspections of pesticide users, distributors, and producers. Initiate inspections or investigations when potential violations are observed; investigate violations related to pesticide use, distribution, storage, disposal, recordkeeping, licensing, and other pesticide laws and rules. Conduct interviews and collect statements; document evidence; maintain chain of custody for samples; track actions in program databases; create site maps and determine legal site descriptions. Follow division protocol for entry rights and obtain warrants when access is denied; conduct field surveillance and interpret pesticide labels for compliance. Execute inspections of equipment, storage areas, worker protection standards, and related containment; prepare professional reports defensible in administrative hearings; initiate on-site corrective action when necessary; review legal documents for civil penalties and provide sworn testimony as needed. Serve warrants and assist with public disclosure requests; coordinate inspection and investigation activities with local, state, and federal agencies; collaborate on special projects and cross-agency efforts as requested. Education and Technical Assistance Develop and deliver public presentations on pesticide-related issues and laws; monitor and evaluate recertification activities; provide training for pesticide exams and assist with certification of applicators, dealers, and consultants. Respond to complex inquiries requiring a strong understanding of pesticide laws and program policies; provide technical assistance and outreach to the public and regulated community. Coordination and Collaboration Coordinate inspection and investigation activities with other agencies; identify and consult with agencies with overlapping jurisdiction; assist with program reviews, special projects, or collaboration needs (e.g., exam review for compliance, registration and Technical Services and Education, NRAS/partners). Who Should Apply?
Environmental Specialist 3 (In-Training) Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in environmental, physical or natural sciences, environmental planning or related fields, and two years of professional-level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning. Master’s degree substitutes for one year of experience; PhD substitutes for more experience; or one year of experience as Environmental Specialist 2. Additional qualifying experience may substitute for education. Environmental Specialist 4 Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in environmental/physical/natural sciences or environmental planning plus five years of professional-level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning, including one year equivalent to Environmental Specialist 3 or above or two years equivalent to Environmental Specialist 2 or above. Master’s or PhD with appropriate substitutions may apply. Other paths include two years of experience as Environmental Specialist 3. Special Requirements: Eligible to obtain upon hire: WSDA Public Operator/Consultant Pesticide License with endorsements. U.S. EPA FIFRA Inspector Credentials. WA State Investigator CORE and ADVANCED training. 40-hour Hazardous Materials Training (HAZ MAT) with annual refresher. Medical evaluation, training, and respirator fit testing. Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Experience in natural resources, agricultural/fertilizer or related fields; experience with pesticides/fertilizers regulatory requirements; ability to read and interpret pesticide labels. Strong written and verbal communication, report writing, customer service, and public speaking skills; bilingual in English and Spanish desirable. Employee Benefits
Healthy work/life balance with potential flexible schedules and teleworking. Comprehensive benefits program, including dependent care, flexible spending accounts, student loan relief programs, tuition waiver, deferred compensation, and leave benefits. 12 paid holidays and vacation/leave accruals; PPE provided; participation in the Commute Trip Reduction program. For more information about the Washington State Department of Agriculture, visit the WSDA website. How to Apply
You must complete your careers.wa.gov profile and answer supplemental questions. In addition to the online application, attach: A resume detailing experience and education A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications Three professional references By submitting materials, you certify that information is true and can be verified. Applications with comments like "see attachments" may be considered incomplete. If you have technical difficulties, contact NEOGOV support. The initial screening will be based on the application contents and may require documentation. Equity at WSDA The Department of Agriculture values diversity and inclusion and supports the PEAR and HEAL plans. We strive to hire a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and provides equal opportunity employment regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Contact For questions about this position or the online application, contact Recruitment at the WSDA Human Resources Office. Background checks will be conducted prior to appointment. Veterans’ preference and disability accommodations information is available through the WSDA recruitment portal.
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