Plant Health Technologist

The Opportunity:

The Ministry of Agriculture's Production and Development Branch is seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented individual to join its Crop Health Team. This position specializes in plant health diagnostics, insect and plant identification, pest survey coordination, and herbicide resistance testing in a client-facing agricultural services laboratory. The role involves processing, testing, and analyzing results related to samples submitted by Ministry staff and external clients including producers and agronomists and industry partners. Sample processing and testing using laboratory instruments and manual or automated testing methods. The role will also participate in education and the supervision of laboratory operations or staff while providing technical and scientific expertise pertaining to the services offered by the laboratory and within the roles area(s) of specialization. The role also supports the Ministry’s provincial pest-monitoring program by coordinating the key activities pertaining to crop pest and disease surveys.

Success in this role requires exceptional attention to detail, a strong commitment to accuracy, initiative and a dedication to excellence and innovation. The ideal candidate takes pride in producing high-quality work, consistently demonstrates precision in managing information and records, courtesy when assisting the public, and is committed to ensuring tasks are completed thoroughly, accurately, and efficiently.

• Performs laboratory tests on crops, animals, clinical, environmental and biological specimens.
• Records test results and provides consultation and interpretation to clients regarding significance of test results and the validity of testing methods.
• Operates and maintains scientific analytical instrumentation while adhering to protocols and safety guidelines.
• Maintains and troubleshoots instrumentation and procedures for possible sources of error.
• Monitors quality control materials for proficiency testing and validation of test results.
• Provides direction on test equipment and procedures to co-workers and students.
• Coordination of the provincial pest survey program including scheduling, communications, progress tracking, data flow and follow up across the annual program.
• May supervise other technologists/staff and/or be required to take part in such activities as training of staff, evaluating methods, tests or instruments, and writing, reviewing and updating policy and procedure manuals for their areas.

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Agriculture, Biology or a related discipline is preferred, a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, biology or a related discipline with relevant work experience may be considered.
• Candidate must be eligible for registration with the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists as a articling (AAg, ATechAg), technical (TechAg), or professional agrologist (PAg).

Job Capabilities:

As a public servant, we are seeking someone who:

• Is accountable, takes ownership of their work by contributing to organizational outcomes and demonstrates the corporate values in our Commitment to Excellence.
• Is innovative and seeks out ways for improvement by thinking creatively, identifying new ideas and taking responsible risks.
• Works collaboratively with others to understand, engage and have meaningful dialogue to achieve work outcomes.
• Is inclusive, identifies and is aware of personal bias, and readily seeks out and appreciates diverse perspectives.
• Is adaptable, continuously learns from experience and applies those learnings to new situations.
• Focuses on achieving public service excellence.
  

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of insects
• Knowledge of botany, especially plant identification
• Knowledge of plant pathology
• Ability to use magnification tools such as microscopes
• Ability to perform PCR and quantitative PCR
• Ability to articulate testing results to clients and staff using simple-language reports
• Laboratory inventory management and planning skills
• Ability to lead a multi-step project that requires coordination with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to complete laboratory bench work using sterile technique
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  

Job Skills:

• Communication (Level B)
• Critical Thinking (Level A)
• Digital Skills (Level A)
• Interacting with Others (Level B)
• Navigating Ambiguity (Level A)
• Managing Self (Level A)
• Health, Safety and Wellness (Level A)

Learn more about the Government of Saskatchewan’s Capabilities and Skills Framework here.

What We Offer:

• Dynamic and challenging work
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package including pension
• Vacation, scheduled days off, and other types of leave
• Inclusive work environments
• Career growth, development, and advancement opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements

Our Commitment to Excellence:

The Government of Saskatchewan upholds deep-rooted values of Respect and Integrity, Serving Citizens, Excellence and Innovation, and Acting as One Team.

The Ministry of Agriculture supports farmers, ranchers and agribusiness through programs and services, policies and a legislative framework that fosters a globally competitive and sustainable food sector. We provide a broad range of agriculture-related programs, business risk management programs, regulatory oversight and economic development opportunities to grow the industry. We have 10 regional offices across the province, staffed with specialists who work directly with producers and agri-food businesses on everything from crop and livestock management, technology transfer to program delivery. The Government of Saskatchewan provides the services, programs and supports the people of Saskatchewan need. We deliver on the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth to build a strong economy, strong communities and strong families, ultimately building a stronger Saskatchewan. Dedicated to service excellence, we demonstrate innovation, collaboration and transparency, practice effective and accountable use of resources and promote engagement and leadership at all levels.