In-House Pest Control Advisor (PCA)
Crain Walnut Shelling, Inc., Los Molinos, CA, United States
*** Applicants must reside in the State of California and have a valid ID ***
Ensure you read the information regarding this opportunity thoroughly before making an application.
** This is an in-person position**
Job Title:
In-House Pest Control Advisor (PCA)
Position Summary
We are seeking a knowledgeable and proactive
In-House Pest Control Advisor (PCA)
to support our tree crop operations. This role is responsible for monitoring pest activity, developing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, and ensuring all applications comply with regulatory standards. This position also manages the nutrition program for tree crops. The PCA will work closely with field teams and purchasing agent to efficiently protect crop health, maximize yield, and maintain sustainable farming practices.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct regular field scouting to monitor pest, disease, and weed pressures and develop cost effective plans to resolve issues. Assist and advise Farm Managers in their participation in scouting and disease control
Identify pests and weeds and recommend effective treatment plans based on thresholds and crop conditions
Develop and implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs
Issue written recommendations in compliance with state and federal regulations
Ensure compliance with all pesticide laws, regulations, and safety standards for spray crews and field workers
Maintain accurate records of pest activity, recommendations, chemical inventory, and pesticide use reports (PURs)
Collaborate with farm managers, applicators, and agronomy team to execute treatment plans and effective nutritional plans. Good communication skills and team player approach mandatory
Stay current on industry trends, new products, and regulatory updates
Assist with audits, inspections, and food safety programs as needed
Plan and manage field fumigation applications
Chemical and fertilizer bidding and acquisition leader
Budgeting for annual agronomic expenditures
Qualifications
Valid Pest Control Advisor (PCA) License issued by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (or ability to obtain)
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Entomology, or related field (preferred)
Minimum 5 years of experience in pest control advising, preferably in tree crops (e.g., walnuts, almonds, pistachios)
Strong knowledge of pests, diseases, and weeds affecting permanent crops
Familiarity with pesticide labels, regulations, and compliance requirements
Excellent observational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Strong communication and collaboration abilities
Proficiency in recordkeeping and agricultural software systems is required. Proficient Excel ability is a requirement
Working Conditions
Frequent outdoor work in varying weather conditions
Walking fields, and inspecting crops
Occasional lifting (up to 25–50 lbs.)
Will require some early mornings, weekends, or seasonal extended hours
Compensation & Benefits
Very Competitive PCA salary based on experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan (e.g., 401k with company match)
Paid time off and holidays
Company vehicle
Why Join Us?
Join a growing, multi-generational agricultural operation committed to innovation, sustainability, and producing high-quality tree crops. xywuqvp As an in-house PCA, you will play a key role in protecting our orchards and shaping long-term crop health strategies and be a part of a winning team with a proven track record and reputation in the farming business.
Ensure you read the information regarding this opportunity thoroughly before making an application.
** This is an in-person position**
Job Title:
In-House Pest Control Advisor (PCA)
Position Summary
We are seeking a knowledgeable and proactive
In-House Pest Control Advisor (PCA)
to support our tree crop operations. This role is responsible for monitoring pest activity, developing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, and ensuring all applications comply with regulatory standards. This position also manages the nutrition program for tree crops. The PCA will work closely with field teams and purchasing agent to efficiently protect crop health, maximize yield, and maintain sustainable farming practices.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct regular field scouting to monitor pest, disease, and weed pressures and develop cost effective plans to resolve issues. Assist and advise Farm Managers in their participation in scouting and disease control
Identify pests and weeds and recommend effective treatment plans based on thresholds and crop conditions
Develop and implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs
Issue written recommendations in compliance with state and federal regulations
Ensure compliance with all pesticide laws, regulations, and safety standards for spray crews and field workers
Maintain accurate records of pest activity, recommendations, chemical inventory, and pesticide use reports (PURs)
Collaborate with farm managers, applicators, and agronomy team to execute treatment plans and effective nutritional plans. Good communication skills and team player approach mandatory
Stay current on industry trends, new products, and regulatory updates
Assist with audits, inspections, and food safety programs as needed
Plan and manage field fumigation applications
Chemical and fertilizer bidding and acquisition leader
Budgeting for annual agronomic expenditures
Qualifications
Valid Pest Control Advisor (PCA) License issued by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (or ability to obtain)
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Entomology, or related field (preferred)
Minimum 5 years of experience in pest control advising, preferably in tree crops (e.g., walnuts, almonds, pistachios)
Strong knowledge of pests, diseases, and weeds affecting permanent crops
Familiarity with pesticide labels, regulations, and compliance requirements
Excellent observational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Strong communication and collaboration abilities
Proficiency in recordkeeping and agricultural software systems is required. Proficient Excel ability is a requirement
Working Conditions
Frequent outdoor work in varying weather conditions
Walking fields, and inspecting crops
Occasional lifting (up to 25–50 lbs.)
Will require some early mornings, weekends, or seasonal extended hours
Compensation & Benefits
Very Competitive PCA salary based on experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan (e.g., 401k with company match)
Paid time off and holidays
Company vehicle
Why Join Us?
Join a growing, multi-generational agricultural operation committed to innovation, sustainability, and producing high-quality tree crops. xywuqvp As an in-house PCA, you will play a key role in protecting our orchards and shaping long-term crop health strategies and be a part of a winning team with a proven track record and reputation in the farming business.