Pest Controller

This position is located in the Department of Veterans Affairs ( VA ), Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Mid Atlantic Health Care Network, Durham VA Medical Center (VAMC), in the Environmental Management Service. The primary purpose of this position is to prevent and control the entrance of pets and predators and eradicate infestations within all facilities. Integrated Pest Management is a preventative, long-term, low toxicity means of controlling pests.

Major duties include but are not limited to: Plans, implements, and carries out a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management Program. Conducts inspections of buildings and grounds. Develops survey and treatment schedules for areas and selects materials and equipment to apply insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, germicides, etc. Collects and identifies common pests, e.g., ants, flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches, mice, rats, birds, and seasonal pests e.g., mites, fleas, ticks, lawn garden pests, and termites.

Utilizes suitable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) control methods to reduce and control hazards to public health, stored products, structures, and vegetation. Locates and identifies pests in stored products; determines the appropriate pesticide toxicity, chemical solutions, baits, physical characteristics, lifecycles, and feeding habits associated with a wide variety of pests; and plans and carries out appropriate pest control measures. Maintains data on infestations, type of treatment applied, results achieved, and existing conditions which may encourage infestation.

Uses, maintains, and calibrates pest control equipment. Understands potential environmental consequences precipitated by weather; types of terrain, soil or other substrate; drainage patterns; and presence of wildlife and nontarget organisms. Coordinates work with the Infection Control Nurse and other people in the Medical Center and advises on preventative measures such as housekeeping requirements and removal/elimination of pest hiding areas.

Makes pest control troubleshooting inspections and recommendations on an as needed basis at the outpatient clinics, residential homes, and other off station properties used by the VA. Completes required reports and records to meet all regulatory agency requirements. Follows all Federal, State, Local, and Medical Center directives that are pertinent to an effective Integrated Pest Management Program.

Performs other related duties as required. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm (schedule may be adjusted at the need of the service) Recruitment & Relocation Incentives: Not authorized Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not Approved