Bee Health Advisor/Inspector - Agrologist 1(A)-(B)-2(A)-(B)

About Us

The Department of Agriculture supports the development of competitive, sustainable, and profitable agriculture and agri-business industries that contribute to the economic, environmental, and social prosperity of Nova Scotia’s rural and urban communities. Our vision is of an agriculture and agri-food industry that is diversified, market-focused and profitable. We envision an industry recognized for its adaptable, collaborative business approach.
 

The Animal and Crop Services Section aims to grow and support agriculture sectors such as the livestock, agronomic and horticulture industries, being proactive, sustainable, and innovative. The section supports agriculture protection through administration of legislation and programs.

Primary Accountabilities

Reporting to the Senior Program Administrator (Pest and Regulations), the Bee Health Advisor and Inspection Lead will be responsible and accountable in the protection of the NS Bee industry under the authority of the Bee Industry Act.

As Bee Health Advisor the incumbent would ensure effective enforcement and administration of the NS Bee Industry Act and regulations. In particular they would be responsible to provide inspection of honey bee colonies and beekeeping equipment as required. This includes activities such as the generation of certificates of inspection and certificates for export/ import of bees; maintaining a registration data base, collection of statistics/ surveys; coordination of sampling of bees for analysis of disease and pests as required for hive health surveys; Order beekeepers to disinfect, dispose or destroy equipment, hives, or honeycomb.

As the Provincial expert in advisory and extension related duties, the advisor will be providing advisory and extension roles to industry as it relates to bee health, and production. The Advisor must work collaboratively with industry partners and government(s). Particularly on national organizations, local groups, and task teams. The advisor must be able to communicate nationally and locally on industry issues dealing with honey bees. May disseminate related information within industry through seminars, workshops, newsletters, field days and other appropriate forms of education and communication. The Advisor may provide related advice and delivery of provincial policies and programs. Prepares situation reports and advisories to the manager as required. Prepares project reports and annual reports as required. May develop and manage associated programs that are aimed to move related industries ahead, roles would include development and coordination of programs delivered through the Programs and Business Risk Management Office. May sit on approval committees as required. On occasion the coordinator may Supervise staff or lead teams/ projects and perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree and seven years related experience in a related field (preferably in entomology or pest management Science) or Master’s Degree in Agriculture plus five years related experience. A professional designation with the Nova Scotia Institute of Agrologists is preferred.

Requires a high level of technical competence in the beekeeping industry, honey bee production and biology, along with a good knowledge of the NS agriculture industry. A working knowledge of the Nova Scotia Bee Industry Act and Regulations is mandatory.

Excellent communication and conflict management skills (both oral and written), organization, responsiveness and self-confidence are required. The position requires the ability to prioritize, initiate and complete various tasks with minimal supervision. Must have the ability to assess trends and take appropriate action, work in a team environment, and supervise staff.

Must have sound and mature judgment with the ability to work effectively and take action in conflict situations and provide mediation/facilitation where appropriate. Must be able to enforce the Bee Industry Act and make decisions and recommendations as required under the Act and regulations. The advisor will be responsible to foster and maintain extensive contacts within and outside governments. Will work as a team member, subject matter expert, provide coordination and provide exchange of information, data, and project development.

Computer skills in Microsoft Office is essential.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

General hazards associated with being an apiary. During inspection is required to lift and/or shift the hives or hive parts with weight up to 30-35 kg. May be required to use agriculture pesticides (honey pest control products). Appropriate protection equipment is available and is mandatory to be used. 

Travel across the province and out of the province will be required. A relevant NS driver’s license and access to a dependable automobile are required.

Additional Information

This is a Temporary employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of December 31, 2024. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• countless career paths. 
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.