Agricultural Biologist Aids

SALARY: $4,493 - 5,685 / MONTH

Closing Date: Friday, January 30, 2026

Apply online at www.santacruzcountyjobs.com

The Agricultural Commission is now hiring for several seasonal, limited-term positions. The list established from this recruitment will be used to fill the current vacancies and future part-time, full-time, substitute and extra-help temporary positions during the life of the eligible list.

THE JOB: Under supervision, perform a variety of non-professional tasks in the field in support of agricultural and/or public health mosquito and vector control activities. There are three specialty areas as described below:

Pest Detection Trapper: Identifies target insects; follows the State Insect Trapping Guide; places, services and relocates insect traps within the county; recognizes preferred host plants of the target insects; removes all traps from the field at the end of the trapping season; handles, documents, and submits insect specimens; maintains equipment, supplies and submits accurate daily records.

Inspection Program: Thoroughly inspects incoming glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS) host plants/
containerized nursery stock; protects Santa Cruz agriculture industry, home gardens, and parks from GWSS infestations; sets and services yellow panel insect traps at nurseries within the county.

Vector Control Aide: Supports vector control program staff; conducts field and laboratory activities; conducts mosquito surveillance; detects mosquito-borne viruses; uses a microscope to sort, count and identify; uses a taxonomic key; picks up dead birds; prepares samples; lab submissions; samples potential
breeding places; keeps data records and electronic maps; assists with trail clearing using brush cutting equipment; distributes informational materials; under supervision, conducts vector control inspections and applies pesticides; maintains traps and equipment; assists in tick surveillance and control efforts for other vectors; uses scientific skills to perform related work as required.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: License Requirements: Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License at the time of appointment. (Note: Candidates with an out of state license may apply and go through recruitment and examination process, however verification of CA License must be provided at time of appointment).