Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I/II/III

Salary : $60,361.60 - $89,689.60 Annually
Location : Placerville, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2609-4401/4402/4403
Department: Agricultural and Weights and Measures
Opening Date: 09/03/2026
Closing Date: 9/16/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
COUNTY OF EL DORADOThe is committed to promoting the power of public service by fostering a diverse and collaborative workplace where employees are empowered, respected, and valued. The dedicated efforts taken by the Board of Supervisors continue to promote El Dorado County as a competitive employer that is committed to recruiting and retaining qualified employees by advocating for competitive salaries and excellent benefits. The County of El Dorado is also supportive of providing telework opportunities for employees consistent with business needs and in accordance with Board of Supervisors Policy E-12 - Telecommuting.

AGRICULTURE WEIGHTS AND MEASURESThe mission of is to protect, enhance, and promote the preservation of agriculture and the environment, sustain public health, safety, and the welfare of all citizens, all the while providing consumer and marketplace protection through the fair and equitable enforcement of laws and regulations.

THE OPPORTUNITYThe position offers the opportunity to perform a wide range of inspections and enforce state and federal regulations in both Agriculture and Weights and Measures. Working under general supervision or direction, the incumbent ensures compliance across multiple regulatory categories while gaining hands-on experience in the field. As part of a multi-level classification, employees may enter at one of three levels depending on experience and state certification status, with responsibilities expanding as certificates are earned. Once certified in a specific inspection area, the incumbent is authorized to conduct related inspections with increased independence, contributing to the protection of consumers, agriculture, and the integrity of commercial transactions.
The selected candidate will have the opportunity to:

• Examine various agricultural products at point of origin or at markets for compliance with standards; issue violation notices indicating required reconditioning and reinspects for compliance; issue permits for disposal of agricultural products.
• Examine plant materials in nurseries for insect pests, plant diseases, and noxious weeds; note findings and control procedures, or plant destruction as required; examine retail nursery stock for proper labeling.
• Survey fields, orchards, gardens, and mills to locate pests; inspects range and farmland, roadsides, warehouses, and farm buildings to ascertain the degree and extent of rodent infestation.
• Demonstrate to farmers, landowners, and homeowners' proper application of insect and rodent control measures and advises them regarding materials and safety precautions.
• Develop and sends surveys to locate infestations of noxious or poisonous weeds; assist in field surveys to determine the presence of insect pests, plant diseases or parasites.
• Pursue enforcement actions when violations of agriculture or weight and measure regulations are suspected; gather and assemble evidence; prepare written reports; present evidence and assist in the preparation of cases in court or in administrative hearings.
• Represent the department at meetings with representatives of governmental agencies; professional, business, and community organizations; and the public.

For a full description of duties and responsibilities, please review the job description here.
The ideal candidate is a motivated learner with foundational knowledge in agriculture, public health, or environmental compliance-gained through coursework, internships, or related experience-and a strong commitment to customer service. They are comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions, observing and documenting findings, and following established procedures to inspect agricultural products, nurseries, apiaries, devices, and packaged goods. With a keen eye for detail and clear communication skills, they support pest and weed surveys, pesticide monitoring, labeling and quarantine compliance, and basic weights and measures device tests, while preparing accurate notes and reports under guidance.

This candidate embraces training and mentorship, quickly learns Integrated Pest Management principles and safety standards, and can obtain required Agricultural/Weights & Measures certifications within designated timelines. They collaborate effectively with growers, businesses, and community members, explaining corrective actions respectfully and helping move cases toward resolution. If you're ready to begin a meaningful public service career protecting local agriculture and ensuring consumer fairness, apply today-join our team, learn from experienced inspectors, and make an immediate impact in your community.

Human Resources will assess your application to determine if you are minimally qualified using the following recommendations.

Education and Experience:Any combination of the required experience, education, and training that would provide the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.
Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited four- year college or university with major coursework in agriculture, biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, or a closely related field as accepted by the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector II:Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited four- year college or university with major coursework in agriculture, biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, or a closely related field as accepted by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and one (1) year of experience in agricultural or weights and measures inspection at a level equivalent to the County's class of Agricultural Biologist-Standards Inspector I.

Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector III: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited four- year college or university with major coursework in agriculture, biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, or a closely related field as accepted by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and two (2) years of experience at a level equivalent to the County's class of Agricultural Biologist- Standards Inspector II.

Licenses and Certifications:Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I/II/III: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment and a satisfactory driving record.

Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I: Possession of, or ability to obtain, at least one (1) valid license as a County Agricultural Inspector/Biologist or County Weights and Measures Inspector within the first year of employment. (Note: This requirement does not apply to seasonal positions.)

Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector II: Possession of two (2) valid inspection licenses in agriculture or weights and measures inspection, which must include Pest Prevention and Plant Regulation, and Measurement Verification.

Agricultural Biologist /Standards Inspector III: Possession of seven (7) of eight (8) valid inspection licenses in agriculture or weights and measures inspection, which include Pesticide Regulations, Weight Verification, Investigation and Environmental Monitoring, Commodity Regulation, Pest Prevention and Plant Regulation, Integrated Pest Management, Transaction and Product Verification, and Measurement Verification.

Click to view the Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I/II/III minimum qualifications, as well as the physical environmental and working conditions.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATIONApply online by clicking the 'Apply' link at the top of this announcement. When your online application and responses to the required supplemental questions are complete, click 'Accept'.

If you have any questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Kim Rose in Human Resources at

Click to get tips for applying with the County.

RECRUITMENT PROCESSThe Human Resources Department will screen all applications to identify qualified candidates. After screening, qualified candidates will be referred to the next step and notified of all further procedures applicable to their status in the recruitment process.

Training and Experience Review:

A training and experience evaluation will be utilized to determine an applicant's ability to continue in the recruitment process ranking for referral to specific vacancies. Based upon the information in the application and/or responses to supplemental questions, the applicant's education, training and experience will be evaluated using a pre-determined formula.
Supplemental questions play an integral role in this recruitment process. Please take the time to provide thoughtful and thorough responses. The information you provide may be used to determine your ranking for referral to specific vacancies. All work experience that is described or included in your response(s) MUST be included in the "Work Experience" section of your application. Do not refer to a resume or other documentation.

For more information on the recruitment process, click

Based on the department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedures.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The County of El Dorado is recruiting applicants for Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I/II/III. This recruitment will establish a list for the purpose of filling current and future full time, part time, limited term and extra help vacancies for at least three (3) months. In accordance with Personnel Rules 1103.1 and 1105.1, an extra help or limited term employee may be transitioned into a regular employee if the department in which the employee works has a vacant allocated position for the same classification as held by the extra help or limited term employee and the appointing authority requests such transfer.
If you are interested in the position of Agricultural Biologist/Standards Inspector I/II/III within any County department, please submit your application.
We currently have the following vacancy:

• One (1) full-time vacancy in the Department of Agriculture Weights and Measures, located in Placerville, CA.

Click for Frequently Asked Questions.
The County of El Dorado is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Many job classifications require pre-employment medical screening. Depending on the job classification, medical screening may include drug testing; a positive test may result in the revocation of an employment offer.
As required by Internal Revenue Service Publication 1075, individuals in positions that have access to Federal Tax Information (FTI), will be subject to a background investigation and a criminal history check. In addition, individuals hired into positions that have access to FTI will be re-investigated at least once every ten (10) years.
Not just rustic mining towns and historic sites - Today El Dorado County is a year-round vacation destination overflowing with outdoor adventure, inviting agritourism locations, enriching family activities, and a proud Gold Rush history.
Escape the traffic and smog because El Dorado County is just:

• 40 miles from Downtown Sacramento
• 50 miles from Sacramento Airport
• 129 miles to San Francisco

Here are a few of the many activities and events available throughout El Dorado County:

• Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Boating, and Watersports
• Skiing and Snowboarding
• Live Music and Music Festivals
• Local Craft Breweries and Wineries
• El Dorado County Fair
• Placerville Speedway
• Farm to Fork Restaurants
• Local Shopping Gems

Employees who are buying a home in El Dorado County may qualify for down payment assistance. Click for more information.
CHECK OUT OUR VIDEO TO LEARN MORE!

The County of El Dorado participates in the E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility. If hired, the information you provide on your Form I-9 will be used to verify your authorization to work in the United States.

Learn more:

• E-Verify Notice of Participation
• Right to Work

The County of El Dorado is committed to providing a comprehensive, flexible benefits program to meet your needs!

For your Health and Well-Being:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Flexible Spending Accounts - FSA & HSA
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Basic Life Insurance
• Long Term Disability (LTD)
• County sponsored Wellness program
• Discounts on gym memberships

For your Financial Future:

• CalPERS Retirement
• Deferred Compensation (457) Plans
• Optional Life Insurance

For your Work/Life Balance:

• Paid Holidays
• Floating Holidays
• Vacation and sick leave accruals
• Personal and bereavement leave

Below is a comprehensive benefit summary based on full-time, regular employment for the bargaining unit to which this classification is assigned.
Revised 1/2025, valid until modified by successor MOU or negotiated agreement.
To learn more about the benefits offered by the County of El Dorado please visit our website located here.
Extra help employees are not considered regular employees, therefore do not attain civil service status, and do not receive benefits or paid leaves; however, they do accrue sick leave consistent with the law.
01

To provide us with an opportunity to evaluate your background, responses to the Supplemental Questions are required in addition to your application. Supplemental questions play an important role in this recruitment process. Please take the time to provide thoughtful and thorough responses. The information you provide may be used to determine if you continue in the selection process and your ranking on the eligible list. All work experience described or included in your response(s) MUST be included in your application's "Work Experience" section. Do not refer to a resume or other documentation. Additionally, ensure that your responses are your own and not generated by artificial intelligence (AI) or other automated tools, as this may result in disqualification from the recruitment.

• I acknowledge receipt of this information

02

Do you possess, or can obtain, a valid California Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record by the time of hire?

• Yes
• No

03

Please select any valid inspection licenses in agriculture or weights and measures inspection.

• Pesticide Regulation
• Weight Verification
• Investigation & Environmental Monitoring
• Commodity Regulation
• Pest Prevention & Plant Regulation
• Integrated Pest Management
• Transaction & Product Verification
• Measurement Verification
• None of the above

04

Do you have the equivalent of a bachelor's degree with major coursework in agriculture, biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, or a closely related field as accepted by the California Department of Food and Agriculture? If so, you MUST attach a copy of unofficial or official transcripts to this application.

• Yes
• No

05

Indicate the total length of paid experience in which you personally and independently conducted regulatory inspections (e.g., plant quarantine, pest detection, nursery or seed, pesticide-use enforcement, weights & measures, or similar).

• None
• Less than 6 months
• 6 months - less than 1 year
• 1 year - less than 2 years
• 2 years - less than 4 years
• 4 years or more

06

Select the statement that best describes your experience designing or conducting regulatory surveys, compiling data, and preparing technical or compliance reports for submission to an oversight agency (e.g., CDFA, USDA, California Division of Measurement Standards).

• No experience
• Assisted only; not independently responsible
• Performed independently for up to 1 year
• Performed independently for > 1 year to < 2 years
• Performed independently for 2 - < 4 years
• Performed independently for 4 years or more, with routine submission of final reports to State/Federal agencies

Required Question