Regulatory Entomologist / Taxonomic Identifier of Scale Insects and
Whiteflies (full time staff position) Florida Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry // Florida State
Collection of Arthropods

Gainesville, Florida, USA, 32608

JOB SUMMARY:
We are looking for a taxonomic identifier for Coccomorpha (scale insects)
and Aleyrodidae (whiteflies), who will supervise two support staff
members working with regulatory samples and related tasks. Duties also
include some research and curation of these taxa in the Florida State
Collection of Arthropods. This is a full time position with benefits.

JOB DUTIES:
This is a highly technical, supervisory position that has diagnostic
responsibilities of arthropods of the Order Hemiptera in support of
the plant and plant pest regulatory activities of the Division of Plant
Industry.

The incumbent spends majority of their time communicating with,
motivating, providing, or coordinating training, and directing the
work of subordinates. In addition, the incumbent must complete timely
performance appraisals, develop accurate work plans, and timely approve
attendance and leave for each subordinate. Incumbent has the authority
to make recommendations for special pay increases, reclassifications,
hiring, and disciplinary actions, when appropriate. Responsible and
accountable for managing budget/dollars/resources (staff, vehicles,
computers, cell phones, etc.) of any assigned programs in an efficient and
accountable manner. Responsible for ensuring that assigned program areas
have operational procedures and processes which result in accountability
and compliance with division and department policies and procedures.

Performs final regulatory identifications and classifications of Hemiptera
and other assigned taxa to the lowest taxonomic unit possible, using
morphometric analysis and other scientific methods. Oversees management
of Entomology sample processing within assigned taxonomic areas.

Develops identifications tools for taxa relevant to Florida's
fauna. Writes internal reports to advise leadership, pest alerts, outreach
materials, and publishes research manuscripts in the appropriate
scientific journals and outlets. Presents scientific findings,
as requested. Collaborates with other experts worldwide. Maintains
involvement in the scientific community via professional societies,
peer-review, conferences, and training workshops.

Manages regulatory collections of the assigned taxa of the Florida State
Collection of Arthropods. Keeps appropriate files and records for data
retrieval. Prepares specimens for loans to arthropod systematists,
maintains invoice files and corresponds with these scientists.

Performs other duties as required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education - A doctorate from an accredited college or university with
major course of study in one of the biological sciencesandtwo (2) years
of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
Experience with entomology, taxonomy, systematics, invasion biology,
identification of Hemiptera (specifically Coccomorpha and Aleyrodidae),
proficiency in slide mounting, publication record.

WORK SCHEDULE:
Standard Hours: 40

COMPENSATION INFORMATION:
Anticipated Salary Range: $55,000.40 - $62,000.12

APPLICATION DEADLINE:
August 20, 2025

APPLICATIONS:
https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/GAINESVILLE-ENTOMOLOGIST-SES-42001237-FL-32601/1314652500/

Inquiries about this position may be directed to:
Dr. Erin Powell, Biological Administrator, Curator of Coccomorpha and
Aleyrodidae, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services //
Florida State Collection of Arthropods

Erin.Powell@fdacs.gov

"Powell, Erin" <Erin.Powell@fdacs.gov>

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