Do you have knowledge of and experience with new, emerging or existing practices, products and technology related to plant pathology with a focus on the horticulture sector? Do you want to play a key role in supporting the competitiveness of Ontario's agri-food sector? If so, consider this opportunity to join this team as a Pathologist - Horticulture!
Plant health - preventing, mitigating and managing pests (including disease) is a critical component of agricultural production. Help us transform new research and ideas into practical programs, products and services which will ensure Ontario's agricultural sector remains competitive and environmentally responsible both now and into the future.
The Ministry: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs helps to build a stronger agri-food sector by investing in the development and transfer of innovative technologies, retaining and attracting investment, developing markets, providing regulatory oversight, and providing effective risk management tools. The ministry also helps enable rural Ontario to build strong, vital communities with diversified economies and healthy social and environmental climates
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The Branch:The Agriculture Development Branch is responsible for dealing with issues and challenges relating to agricultural production (crops and livestock). The branch promotes high quality agricultural production through the application of best management practices, on-farm quality assurance programs and plant and animal health strategies to ensure a competitive and environmentally responsible agri-food sector.
OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:
We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit the
OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the
OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's
Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.
What can I expect to do in this role?
As a Provincial Specialist for pathology in the horticulture sector, you will:
• Lead the development of strategies to prevent and mitigate plant disease impacts on Ontario's agriculture sector
• Develop seminars and courses, electronic and print information packages as well as design demonstrations of new, emerging and innovative techniques and products.
• Facilitate delivery of program information services, education and training across commodities to facilitate change.
• Represent Provincial or Ministry interests on multidisciplinary working groups.
• Provide expertise to senior management regarding the development, coordination, and implementation of strategies, policies, and programs related to plant health for the Ontario horticulture sector.
• Maintain regular contact with clients and partners and develop coalitions and networks.
• Review and assess leading-edge agricultural research and practices from around the world and adapt the findings to Ontario industry needs
How do I qualify?
Mandatory requirement:
• Must possess a valid Class "G" Driver's License or equivalent as recognized by the Province of Ontario in order to conduct site visits at rural and remote locations, you must have the ability to travel to areas not serviced by public transportation.
Technical knowledge:
• You have expert knowledge of the scientific theories and principles of plant pathology in horticulture crops.
• You have expert knowledge of production practices, understand the economics and environmental impacts of plant disease on the agricultural industry to develop expert leading-edge information and educational materials that will assist clients with improving their competitive position
Research, analysis, evaluation and problem-solving skills:
• You have analytical skills to review new research studies, agricultural practices and technologies and assess their transferability to industry in Ontario.
• You have the ability to analyze validity of research findings, prepare reports and make recommendations on their suitability for Ontario conditions.
• You have analytical and problem-solving skills to investigate industry issues, trends and developments related to horticulture pathology.
Consultation and facilitation skills:
• You have analytical skills to review new research studies, agricultural practices and technologies and assess their transferability to industry in Ontario.
• You have the ability to analyze validity of research findings, prepare reports and make recommendations on their suitability for Ontario conditions.
• You have analytical and problem-solving skills to investigate industry issues, trends and developments related to horticulture pathology.
Communication and interpersonal skills:
• You can develop documents, reports and educational materials using clear, concise language.
• You can present information, options and recommendations in a clear, concise and logical manner.
• You have the proven ability to develop and present information in many formats and can determine the most effective way to transfer technical information.
• You have interpersonal and networking skills to establish and enhance partnerships, coalitions and networks.
Other important skills:
• You have planning and coordination skills to effectively manage project activities and resources.
• You are proficient with a variety of computer applications, such as e-mail, internet, word processing, spreadsheet, statistical analysis and database software.
