Overview
TDA – Toxicologist Jobs in Austin, TX at Texas Department of Agriculture
Title: TDA – Toxicologist
Company: Texas Department of Agriculture
Location: Austin, TX
Please paste the following URL into a browser to view the entire job posting on the CAPPS Careers page.https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psp/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FLandAction=UandFOCUS=ApplicantandSiteId=1andJobOpeningId=100029andPostingSeq=1Agency InformationThe Texas Department of Agriculture's (TDA) Agriculture and Consumer Protection Division administers consumer protection programs which includes overseeing items like grocery store scales, egg quality, nursery products, licensing and training pesticide applicators, worker protection and registering pesticides for sale. TDA's consumer protection efforts promote success, unity and prosperity for the people of Texas.Job DescriptionWHAT YOU'LL DOThe Toxicologist will perform advanced toxicology work for the Agriculture and Consumer Protection (ACP) Division of the Texas Department of Agriculture. Work involves evaluating, analyzing and making sound recommendations based upon the presence of pesticides in soil, water and air to contribute to the prevention of unreasonable or adverse effects to human health from exposure to pesticides, and manage environmental projects. You will work under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Essential Job DutiesEvaluate chemical exposure and toxicity; analyze and interpret environmental data on pesticides in food, soil, water and air as it relates to federal regulations concerning pesticide registration, use and disposal; and make sound recommendations to prevent unreasonable adverse effects to human health and the environment.Provide technical assistance for Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) employees and other state, federal and private sources concerning the potential health effects of pesticides, especially advise management and the public on issues of food safety.Develop multimedia pesticide risk assessment strategies to evaluate and communicate potential hazards to human health.Perform in-depth scientific reviews and coordinate interagency health and pesticide monitoring projects.Serve as an expert on human health issues; conduct case reviews and other special projects; and prepare reports, factsheets and other documents on the nature and degree of health impact resulting from the use and/or misuse of pesticides.Review interagency project contracts and contribute to the design of field studies to evaluate health risks of pesticides. Remain abreast of new technical, scientific and legislative information on all areas of pesticide issues and risk assessment.Maintain and update the pesticide database and perform research/review on health effects of pesticides used in Texas.Assist in reviewing precautionary pesticide labeling and farm worker safety laws and procedures, ensuring the use of restrictions.Serve as an expert toxicologist and risk assessor in agency/court hearings on the nature and degree of hazards to human health, domestic animals and non-target organisms resulting from exposure to pesticides and consulting with legal staff as appropriate.Attend committee meetings and forums on human health/environmental issues, and make presentations, as required. Participate in pesticide inspector training and public outreach programs.Follow all TDA policies and procedures.Perform other duties as assigned. QualificationsTo be considered for the position, applicants must submit a State of Texas Application through CAPPS or WIT – experience listed on the CAPPS application must state how each of the following qualifications are met:Ph.D., degree with specialization in pharmacology/toxicology and coursework in risk assessment principles, environmental or occupational health, pesticide and/or chemical regulation and policy.Work experience comprehending and interpreting clinical findings and laboratory data to evaluate potential health hazards from exposure to pesticides. Knowledge/Skills/AbilitiesKnowledge of the standard p inciples and methods of toxicology and chemical laboratory procedures; of conducting, analyzing, evaluating, interpreting and summarizing chemical toxicity research as evidenced by research publications; of various toxicological data requirements for product registration, toxicity study design, safety assessment evaluation, and field and laboratory procedures for toxicity testing.Skill in the operation of laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.Ability to initiate, plan, develop, interpret, and conduct risk assessments and evaluations of toxicological information; to determine the health risks associated with public and environmental exposure to toxic substances; to provide expert testimony; to conduct surveys; to perform investigative research and studies; to analyze environmental samples; to prepare reports; to communicate effectively, orally and in writing; and to exercise sound judgment and discretion; and to maintain the highest level of confidentiality. Working ConditionsPhysical Requirements and Working Conditions: Normal office work environment and may have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact. Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve walking; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping and bending; performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and coordination; and safely lifting and carrying items weighing up to 30 pounds. Must be able to work extended periods at a computer and may require working extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed. May involve travel, occasionally overnight. Occasionally involves field visits to make observations and monitor/collect data on pesticide use, disposal, etc. May involve travel (up to 20%*), occasionally overnight.BenefitsThe State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Ben
