We are seeking an experienced and motivated scientific professional to lead our Mosquito Identification, Surveillance and Taxonomy (MIST) Department. This role oversees mosquito and public health insect identification programs, supports surveillance and vector control operations, manages departmental staff and projects, and contributes to research, training, and public health initiatives.

The ideal candidate will possess strong expertise in insect identification and taxonomy, excellent analytical and communication skills, and a commitment to protecting public health. This position serves as a critical link between laboratory identification and operational mosquito control activities, helping guide data-driven decisions that reduce vector-borne disease risks in our community.

Essential Functions

• Examine and identify insects of public health concern to genus/species using morphological characters, taxonomic keys, reference collections, and when applicable, microscopy and molecular techniques
• Identify, count, and record mosquitoes collected through District surveillance programs, including truck, CDC light, and BG Sentinel traps, and enter results into the M3 database in accordance with established timelines.
• Prepare, pool, and store specimens for RT-PCR pathogen testing of vector mosquitoes
• Assist field teams with surveillance/trapping programs and provide monitoring and/or control recommendations
• Collaborate with field teams to provide rapid identification of surveillance for urgent vector control situations
• Develop and maintain a mosquito/public health entomology specimen collection to be used as a training and identification resource
• Curate and preserve mosquito collections, ensuring proper storage and labeling for long-term reference
• Develop and maintain mosquito/public health entomology specimen image database
• Organize and maintain specimen collection, digitize records, and georeferenced/distribution data
• Maintain and update specimen data housed within M3 database
• Stay current with taxonomic revisions, emerging identification tools, and relevant entomological literature
• Develop or contribute to training modules and illustrated identification aids for District staff, stakeholders, and project collaborators
• Train District staff or interns in mosquito identification techniques and best practices

• Work with other researchers to support ecological, species diversity, and applied entomology projects
• Prepare detailed identification reports for District staff, stakeholders, and research partners
• Analyze entomological data and prepare manuscripts for peer review publications and present findings at conferences
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and reporting for departmental projects
• Communicate with the public in a professional and courteous manner and refer all inquiries that are outside area of expertise to the most appropriate person at the District
• Represent the District at conferences, science fairs and public meetings as needed
• Always follow all District’s Safety policies and procedures
• Must have regular and predictable attendance
• Responsible for ensuring all assigned equipment is maintained and repaired as needed
• Perform other duties and projects assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervises CDC/BG Sentinel surveillance FTE and seasonal staff, other District staff, and interns in identification and administrative functions of the MIST Department.

Qualifications

• Master of Science (or PhD) degree in Entomology or related field (emphasis on taxonomic studies preferred) from an accredited college or university; Bachelor’s degree in Entomology or related field from an accredited college or university considered with below experience:
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience, preferably in an identifier or taxonomist position and/or equivalent experience that demonstrates an ability to proficiently meet mosquito identification priorities
• Must have the ability to identify (or learn to identify) a variety of native and invasive mosquito species
• Proficiency in using dichotomous keys, stereo/compound microscopes, and digital imaging tools
• Proven experience in insect taxonomy and identification, to include publications in peer review journals
• Experience with taxonomic software, specimen databases, and biodiversity informatics
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately identify and process large volumes of specimens while performing repetitive tasks in a precise and consistent manner
• Demonstrates thorough knowledge of all aspects of mosquito control practices and/or a combination of education and experience in an entomology related field that demonstrates an ability to quickly become proficient in all aspects of mosquito control practices
• Familiarity with molecular identification methods (DNA barcoding) is a plus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting, collaboration and presenting to an audience.
• Class E Driver’s License with a clean driving record
• Must be able to read, communicate, and understand technical instructions in English
• Must have the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must hold a current Public Health License or obtain one within six(6) months of employment and maintain certification by earning appropriate CEUs (continuing education units)
• Must have basic computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office

Supplemental Information

Work Environment/Physical Requirements/Travel Advisory:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Physical Requirements: Heavy physical activity is required on an occasional basis including lifting, reaching for, pulling and carrying up to fifty pounds, reaching and pulling with arms, stooping, kneeling, bending frequently, sitting for long periods of time, walking for long distances, and climbing over and around natural obstacles, in and out of various equipment and vehicles and up and down ladders. Must be able to use hands and fingers to type. Excellent vision, both close and distant, is frequently required.

Work Environment: The work environment is normally an office, laboratory or vehicle but could include helicopters, boats, mangroves, fields, islands, and open water. Exposure to all types of weather is required when working outside. Exposure to sun, rain, mud, a variety of farm animals, blood-feeding vectors and other insects is required frequently. Occasional local, national and international travel is required. Noise level is usually low but occasional exposure to moderate noise levels when around helicopters. Working with and around chemicals, which are stored, handled, applied/used and disposed of according to exact labeling instructions, may be required.

Travel Advisory: Employees traveling to areas with known arbovirus transmissions are required to notify their supervisor prior to travel. Additionally, employees must report any symptoms consistent with arboviral infections (such as fever, headache, or joint pain) to their supervisor before returning to work. The employee must follow any recommended medical guidance and may be required to obtain clearance from a healthcare provider before resuming work duties.

LCMCD reserves the right to institute appropriate measures to protect the health and safety of all employees. These measures may include daily temperature checks upon return to the office after travel.

Pre-employment criminal background check and drug screen required.

Equal Opportunity Employer; Drug Free Workplace; Veterans Preference to those who qualify. We are an E-VERIFY employer. Please visit our careers page at leecountymcdfl.gov or leecountyhcdfl.gov for more information.