Vector Control Analyst - Career Profile |
Career OverviewA vector control analyst is expected to assist in managing and maintaining the various rodent and diseased animal populations within a given area. The vector control analyst sets traps and places strategic monitoring devices in various areas being studied to monitor the vectors (diseased rodents, insects or those animals or insects posing a health risk).
The role of a vector control analyst is critical in various outbreaks and monitoring of health issues and concerns in various areas both indoors and outdoors.
The vector control analyst is responsible for identifying the various disease conditions; preserving and staining tissue samples as well as documenting results and completing analysis and reports on the various outbreaks and treatments. The vector control analyst may also be required to preserve infected rodents or complete various tests on them under direct supervision and following established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
The vector control analyst is often required to mix compounds or chemicals to test for effective kill and treatment of various vectors including insects and rodents.
Understanding of basic biological processes, the application of pesticides and other forms of chemicals used in vector control is highly desired.
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Career RequirementsMost vector control analyst positions require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent educational level. For those vector control analysts that will be working with pesticides it may be necessary to have a state or government issued pesticide applicator’s certificate or equivalency.
Additional experience in vector control, pesticide application or rodent control and elimination is an asset. The vector control analyst must be able to follow written directions, understand all safety regulations and pesticide application processes as well as communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers regarding the application of various chemicals.
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Job OutlookVector control analysts are required in most aspects of biotechnology and production of biotech products. Raw material as well as lab and production areas must be kept insect and rodent free and clear of any possible contamination or disease sources.
As the levels of purity and quality control of all facilities continue to increase the demand for trained and experienced vector control analysts will continue to increase as well. This is usually considered an entry level position so there are often possibilities to start working for a research facility or agency through the vector control analyst position.
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Career TrackThe vector control analyst is a basic position within most research or production facilities. In larger companies there may be several vector control analysts and often supervisory roles are assigned to the most senior vector control analyst.
Data analysis and understanding protocols and procedures can be a starting point for vector control analysts to move into more research based positions or even data technicians or positions as documentation specialists.
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CompensationSince this is base level position the salary is usually hourly and ranges between $7.00 and $12.00 dollars per hour. For those supervisory vector control analysts the salary may increase to approximately $15.00 per hour depending on the facility and job description.
With this job there are often weekend or evening shifts or work hours required. Additional pay is granted for overtime or evening shifts especially if this is not part of the standard work agreement.
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