Apiary Inspector (Intermittent)

About the role

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is hiring an intermittent Apiary Inspector for the Sangamon County region. The position is under general supervision and covers seasonal or irregular work schedules, with a maximum of 1,500 regular work hours per fiscal year. Applicants must live in one of the specified counties and report to the headquarters in Springfield as needed.

Key responsibilities

• Inspect honeybee colonies, apiaries and equipment to detect and control diseases, parasites and Africanized bees, ensuring compliance with the Illinois Bees & Apiaries Act
• Investigate the source of infection or infestation in an assigned area and recommend treatment or take part in abating nuisance colonies
• Demonstrate methods for controlling or preventing the spread of bee diseases and parasites
• Compile information and prepare certificates, notices, permits, reports and other documentation
• Maintain accurate records of inspections and report on activities as directed
• Travel throughout the assigned region and, when asked, attend meetings of beekeepers or other groups

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Residency in Cass, Christian, Greene, Jersey, Macoupin, Mason, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, Sangamon or Scott county
• Valid driver's license and ability to drive for long periods and to travel
• Must pass a background check
• Medium work level (lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time)

Preferred qualifications

• Working knowledge of apiculture and handling honeybees
• Elementary knowledge of bee diseases and parasites

What we offer

• Anticipated starting salary of $3,827 per month, range $3,827-$4,826
• Monday to Friday schedule, with flexible schedules in many program areas
• Health, life, vision and dental insurance, and a pension plan
• 12 weeks of paid maternity/paternity leave and 12 paid sick days per year
• 10-25 paid vacation days depending on years of service, plus 13-14 state holidays