Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District

At Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District, we’re committed to protecting public health in Placer County. Our staff is key to this commitment. Our District’s internship program is an effort to inspire, develop and recruit young talent to the science and vector control field. Internship opportunities at the District seasonally provide on-the-job experience in field operations, research, lab activities, public outreach and social media. Each internship cumulates with a final report and is led at the direction of a full-time staff member.

The Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District seeks an applied research intern to investigate topics related to mosquito and vector surveillance, control, and related subjects. Our District is based in Roseville, CA, and operates a substation near Truckee, CA, and serves all of Placer County.

Position Status: Temporary, Full-Time, Internships

Application Deadline: March 31, 2023

JOB DESCRIPTION

Applied Research Intern

The Applied Research internship offers students an opportunity to use scientific investigation to improve efficacy and efficiency of District operations. The internship seeks to match student skills and interests with District needs, and may include data analytics, GIS mapping, integrated vector management research, and technical innovation.  Example topics include relating West Nile Virus incidence and mosquito abundance to habitat characteristics, quantifying seasonality of operational activities, comparing efficiency of surveillance techniques, or documenting control efficacy. Experience with data analysis, statistics, GIS, database programming, experimental design, public health, or vector control is desirable but not required. Applied Research Internships may be up to 100% remote work, depending on the needs of the project.

One seasonal applied research intern position is available for the 2023 season. Interns will be assigned duties that involve an intern project as well as support duties. Duties may be remote or in-person. All positions can expect to be assigned a range of duties that support the District’s mission to protect public health.

Intern positions will incorporate a student project which may qualify for academic credit or transcript notation.  Check with your academic department regarding their policies. Applicants are solely responsible for making all arrangements and meeting requirements related to academic credit. PacVec can facilitate finding a faculty mentor for students associated with UC Davis. Please contact PacVec at training@pacvec.us for more information.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, some or any the following:

  • Data entry, data cleaning
  • Creating or editing maps
  • Reviewing and summarizing journal articles
  • Documenting procedures
  • Writing reports
  • Set and retrieve mosquito surveillance traps
  • Use a microscope and dichotomous key to count and identify adult and immature mosquitoes
  • Assist with mosquito control efficacy testing operations during daytime and nighttime hours as requested
  • Communicate District messages when interacting with members of the public
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS

It is the applicant’s responsibility to identify in their application materials how they meet the MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS listed below:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • Education, training, and/or experience in vector control or a related field is desirable.
  • Experience in biological laboratory and/or field-work desirable.  Basic computer skills required.
  • A valid California Driver License will be required at the time of employment and must be maintained throughout employment.
  • Must pass pre-employment screenings including background check, physical, and drug test.
  • Must have a driving record that meets District’s self-insurance standards.
  • TO QUALIFY FOR STUDENT PROJECT: Applicants must demonstrate that they have made arrangements with an academic institution to receive credit.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

  • Basic biology with familiarity with vectors and vector-borne disease and/or biological systems relevant to intern project
  • Safe work practices including regulations related to worker safety
  • Familiarity with principles of Integrated Vector (Pest) Management and the mission of the district

Ability to:

  • Interact professionally and effectively with peers, supervisors and the public.
  • Safely operate standard district equipment related intern project.
  • Follow oral and written instructions.
  • Effectively communicate verbally and in writing
  • Read and write at a level required for successful job performance
  • Operate standard business computer hardware, mobile devices and related software applications as needed.

Examination and Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews will be scheduled during regular business hours (Monday through Friday 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m.).  Selection will be based on a combined overall assessment of the oral interview, written application and resume.

Pre-employment Screening

A pre-employment screenings including background check, pre-employment drug test, and physical may be required depending on the internship project.  Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.

Terms of Employment

Compensation at $16/hour.

Workdays/hours: Generally, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; may include weekends or evenings and be adjusted for weather, virus activity, or other District needs.

Workers compensation is provided.  Employees are protected under the Workers Compensation Laws of California.

Apply Now

The District reserves the right to change or alter this description at its sole discretion.

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.  Please contact the District at least five (5) working days before a scheduled examination or interview if you require accommodation in the examination or interview process.