Pesticide Applicator Certification Specialist-Administrative Assistant 1 - Polk Co
Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa/jobs/newprint/5296379)
Apply
?
Pesticide Applicator Certification Specialist-Administrative Assistant 1 - Polk Co
Salary
$42,889.60 - $63,044.80 Annually
Location
Des Moines - 50313 - Polk County, IA
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
26-02674
Agency
009 Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Opening Date
04/03/2026
Closing Date
4/17/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag
LI-POST
Point of Contact
gretchen.paluch@iowaagriculture.gov
Description
Benefits
Questions
Job Description
Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (https://iowaagriculture.gov/) (IDALS) exists to connect Iowans with programs and information about crops, food safety standards, livestock and more. We work together with local farmers markets and Iowa farmers to continue to support the robust industry and culture Iowa has focused around agriculture.
IDALS seeks to fill the position of Administrative Assistant 1 in thePesticide Bureau (https://iowaagriculture.gov/pesticide-bureau) . (video: http://iowaagriculture.gov/video) The Pesticide Bureau facilitates the judicious use of pesticides through state regulatory programs and education in order to protect human health and the environment. The purpose of this position is to manage private pesticide applicator certification program and pesticide secondary containment program, compile data related to program receipts and expenditures and to provide the Pesticide Bureau administrative support.
Duties:
Administration of Private, Public, and Golf Course Applicator Certification Program.
Handles complaints and requests for information regarding private, public, and golf course applicator certification programs.
Independently conducts reviews of applications of private, public and golf course applicator recertification. Applies/interprets rules and regulations to determine whether application is complete and meets Iowa standards for private, public and golf course applicator certification. Comprehends and applies federal and state regulations.
Tracks processing and mailing of new certifications.
Ensures fees are processed according to accounting policies and procedures.
Works with Bureau staff to participate and coordinate program administrative needs within the private, public, and golf course applicator training program.
Prepares reports/updates on private, public, and golf course applicator certification processing and database function.
Communicates by telephone or in writing problems with incomplete or ineligible renewal applications for private, public, and golf course certification.
Responsible for preparing and distributing private applicator renewal forms to trainers. Initiates and leads review of instructions and reference materials. Engages and involves Program Planner and Bureau staff to recommend changes.
Determines cost of supplies and time estimates for budgeted preparation of renewals. Orders supplies in advance of renewal form distribution.
Arranges and prepares annual applicator testing schedule for distribution and posting on IDALS website.
Updates private, public and golf course applicator database as needed.
Receive, review, and respond to reciprocal certification requests.
Administration of Pesticide Secondary Containment.
Independently conducts review of plans for certified engineer's stamp. Applies/interprets rules and regulations to determine whether containment meets Iowa standards for secondary containment. Comprehends and applies federal and state regulations.
Handle all correspondence and follow-up with requests for information and forms related to engineering plans.
Utilize electronic tracking systems to maintain an accurate up-to-date listing.
Electronic Records/Printing/Scanning.
Assists Bureau staff with maintaining printing capabilities for routine Bureau activities as well as larger license and certification print jobs.
Coordinates supplies and maintains mailing calendar for Dealer, Licensing & Certification, and Registration.
Works cooperatively with IT staff to maintain printing, scanning, and file transfer ability.
As an employee of IDALS you are a State of Iowa employee and eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Low out of pocket, high quality family medical insurance as low as $180.00 per month, single as low as $54.00 per month
Dental insurance is free for single and $41.50 per month for family coverage
$20,000 basic life insurance at no cost, voluntary supplemental life for an additional cost, and long-term disability insurance at no cost
Exceptional retirement package includes IPERS (Iowa Public Employee Retirement System) which is a fixed income or defined benefit pension plan
In addition to IPERS a deferred compensation plan (similar to a 401K) with a state match of up to $75.00 per month
Paid leave includes - 9 holidays, sick, vacation, military leave, and jury duty leave
To learn more about benefits available as a State of Iowa Employee click here benefits (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/employee-and-retiree-benefits/employees) to visit the web page.
Applicants may submit a cover letter and resume describing their relevant experience. Application materials can be uploaded in the Attachments Section during the application process.
E-Verify and Right to Work:The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visitwww.e-verify.gov.
Selectives
071Applications Support 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in the installation, repairing, and overseeing of computer hardware/software/or peripheral equipment. This also involves answering user inquiries on computer hardware and software operation.
OR
140Data Processing6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in information technology. Requires general familiarity working with computers, typically in more administrative @types of positions.
OR
161 Operations6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both involving: Operating and scheduling a computer system hardware installation and related peripheral equipment Coordinating workflow scheduling and distribution Serving as a contact point for resolution of customer problems involved with system operation
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in any field.
A total of four years of education (as described in number one) and/or full-time experience in accounting, secretarial, or office support work collecting, compiling, reporting, examining and/or editing numerical data; coding and qualifying people for benefits, licenses, or other transactions; preparing and keeping budgetary accounts and projections; organizing and implementing office support operations; advising on procedural processes; or other work that provided direct support and exposure to substantive agency programs, where one year of full-time experience is equal to 30 semester hours of education.
Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to 12 months of full-time work as a Secretary 2, Clerk Specialist, Public Service Supervisor, Accounting Technician (any level), Purchasing Assistant, or Human Resources Technical Assistant
For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\and\pay/JobClassDescriptions/AdministrativeAssistant1-00708-90708.pdf) .
Why Choose the State of Iowa?
At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career:
Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01
Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability?
Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.
Yes - I understand and agree.
No
02
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?
No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
03
Have you graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college/university?
Yes
No
04
How many years do you have of a combination of full-time work experience in accounting, secretarial or office support work involving: collecting, compiling, reporting, examining and/or editing numerical data; coding/qualifying persons for benefits, licenses or other transactions; preparing/keeping budgetary accounts and projections; organizing/implementing office support operations; advising on procedural processes; or other work which provided direct support/exposure to substantive agency programs AND/OR post high school education? 30 semester hours of course work equals one year of experience.
I do not have any of the combined education and/or experience
Less than two years of the combined education and/or experience
Two years to less than four years of the combined education and/or experience
Four years or more of the combined education and/or experience
05
Are you a current State of Iowa employee (executive branch)? IF YES - How many months of experience do you have in the classification of Secretary 2, Clerk Specialist, Public Service Supervisor, Accounting Technician (any level), Purchasing Assistant or Human Resources Technical Assistant for the State of Iowa?
I am not a State of Iowa employee
Less than 12 months of the required experience
12 months or more of the required experience
06
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both involving:
Operating and scheduling a computer system hardware installation and related peripheral equipment
Coordinating workflow scheduling and distribution
Serving as a contact point for resolution of customer problems involved with system operations?
Yes
No
07
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in the installation, repairing, and overseeing of computer hardware/software/or peripheral equipment and answering user inquiries on computer hardware and software operation?
Yes
No
08
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in information technology? Requires general familiarity working with computers, typically in more administrative @types of positions.
Yes
No
09
If you answered "Yes" to one of the selective questions above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please @type in "No" in the box below.]
Required Question
Employer
State of Iowa
Agency
009 Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Address
1305 E Walnut St
Des Moines, Iowa, 50319
Website
http://www.iowaagriculture.gov/
Apply
Please verify your email addressVerify Email
