关于农作物种植和植物保护专业公务员职务代码及标准的联合通知第36/2015号

JOINT CIRCULAR

Regulations on job code and qualification standards for specialized plant protection and crop production staff

_________________________

Pursuant to the Civil Servant Law No. 58/2010/QH12 dated November 15, 2010;

Pursuant to Decree No. 29/2012/NĐ-CP dated April 12, 2012 of the Government on recruitment, utilization, and management of civil servants;

Pursuant to Decree No. 204/2004/NĐ-CP dated December 14, 2004 of the Government on salary system for cadres, public officials, civil servants, and armed forces; Decree No. 17/2013/NĐ-CP dated December 19, 2013 of the Government amending and supplementing certain articles of Decree No. 204/2004/NĐ-CP dated December 14, 2004 of the Government on salary system for cadres, public officials, civil servants, and armed forces;

Pursuant to Decree No. 199/2013/NĐ-CP dated November 26, 2013 of the Government on the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development;

Pursuant to Decree No. 58/2014/NĐ-CP dated June 16, 2014 of the Government stipulating functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Home Affairs;

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Minister of Home Affairs issue this Joint Circular regulating job codes and qualification standards for specialized plant protection and crop production staff.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation and Applicability

1. This Joint Circular regulates job codes, qualification standards, appointment, and grading of positions for specialized plant protection and crop production staff.

2. This Joint Circular applies to specialized plant protection and crop production staff working in public service units.

Article 2. Job Code and Classification of Specialized Plant Protection and Crop Production Staff

1. Plant Protection Position

a) Plant Protection Officer Level II - Job Code: V.03.01.01

b) Plant Protection Officer Level III - Job Code: V.03.01.02

c) Plant Protection Technician Level IV - Job Code: V.03.01.03

2. Pesticide Inspection Position

a) Pesticide Inspector Level II - Job Code: V.03.02.04

b) Pesticide Inspector Level III - Job Code: V.03.02.05

c) Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV - Job Code: V.03.02.06

3. Crop Testing Position

a) Crop Tester Level II - Job Code: V.03.03.07

b) Crop Tester Level III - Job Code: V.03.03.08

c) Crop Testing Technician Level IV - Job Code: V.03.03.09

Chapter II

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS FOR SPECIALIZED PLANT PROTECTION STAFF

Article 3. General Ethical Standards for Specialized Plant Protection Staff

1. Passionate about the profession, actively researching, humbly learning, applying scientific and technological achievements in work.

2. Spirit of internal unity, listening to colleagues' opinions, proactively coordinating with colleagues to fulfill assigned tasks.

3. Strictly adhering to regulations and operational rules of the profession.

4. Continuously studying to improve professional knowledge, foreign languages, and information technology skills to effectively complete assigned tasks.

Article 4. Plant Protection Officer Level II - Job Code: V.03.01.01

1. Tasks

a) Lead the development of plant protection plans and technical schemes, and organize their implementation in the assigned area or field;

b) Lead the organization of surveys, data collection, synthesis, and analysis of such data and information, assess the situation, draw conclusions, and propose supplementary measures to amend plant protection technical procedures based on these findings;

c) Participate in amending laws related to plant protection; lead the organization of publicity, guidance, detection, prevention, and handling of violations within the scope of authority or propose higher-level authorities to handle such violations;

d) Participate in inspecting and resolving disputes and complaints related to plant protection expertise within the assigned field upon request;

đ) Lead or participate in implementing scientific research projects on plant protection at the sectoral or national level within the assigned field; implement and apply advancements in plant protection science and technology;

e) Lead or participate in setting objectives, programs, contents, compiling materials, and organizing training for lower-level plant protection staff.

a) Graduated from a university or higher in plant protection or relevant fields suitable for the position;

b) Possess a minimum level 3 proficiency in foreign languages as prescribed in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014 of the Ministry of Education and Training on the Foreign Language Proficiency Framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer skills as prescribed in Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014 of the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Skills Standards;

d) Hold a certificate for Plant Protection Officer Level II.

a) Proficient in Party guidelines, policies, and state laws related to plant protection;

b) Familiar with laws on plant protection, plant quarantine, pesticides, and other relevant laws; understand key points of international plant protection laws and those of related countries;

c) Understand the regular characteristics of crop production processes affecting plant protection and vice versa. Be aware of domestic economic, political, and social conditions relevant to plant protection;

d) Have research capabilities, be well-versed in advanced plant protection science and technology both domestically and internationally;

đ) Understand fundamental theories on pest control and integrated pest management, determination of economic thresholds, and economic efficiency in plant protection activities;

e) Able to use information technology, extract, and apply plant protection information both domestically and internationally;

g) Lead or participate in recognized scientific research projects or programs by provincial or ministerial scientific councils and effectively implement them.

A staff member promoted from the rank of Plant Protection Officer Level III to the rank of Plant Protection Officer Level II must have held the rank of Plant Protection Officer Level III or equivalent for at least nine years, including at least two years in the most recent period holding the rank of Plant Protection Officer Level III.

Article 5. Plant Protection Officer Level III - Code: V.03.01.02

1. Tasks

a) Develop and implement plans and technical measures concerning plant protection work within the unit and assigned area;

b) Organize and carry out the entire integrated pest management process or part thereof within the assigned area;

c) Investigate, collect, analyze data and information to compile and assess the situation of plant protection within the assigned area and the technical activities of the unit, and on this basis propose solutions to urgent requirements serving production; propose amendments and supplements to integrated pest management processes, regulations, and laws on plant protection to suit specific conditions and circumstances of the assigned area;

d) Develop or participate in developing and implementing research topics and experimental surveys on technical measures for pest control and integrated pest management processes for crops;

đ) Train farmers, provide training to workers and lower-level staff members on plant protection techniques, and establish a network of plant protection cooperators within the assigned area;

e) Implement agricultural extension work on plant protection and related programs and projects, guide the application of scientific and technological advancements in plant protection into production within the assigned area;

a) Hold a bachelor's degree or higher in plant protection or other relevant fields suitable for the position;

b) Possess a level 2 foreign language proficiency as stipulated in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Education and Training regarding the six-level foreign language competency framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer skills as prescribed in Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014 of the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Skills Standards;

d) Hold a certificate for Plant Protection Officer Level III;

a) Understand the Party's policies, guidelines, and state policies related to plant protection;

b) Understand legal provisions on plant protection, plant quarantine, and plant protection chemicals;

c) Understand pest control procedures and regulations within the assigned area and the principles of integrated pest management processes, surveying, and experimental methods in plant protection;

d) Understand the production and plant protection situation within the assigned area and relevant political, economic, and social situations;

đ) Understand surveying and experimental methods in plant protection; understand how to collect and the requirements for data and information to be processed by computer for directing pest control;

A staff member promoted from the rank of Plant Protection Technician Level IV to the rank of Plant Protection Officer Level III must meet all the provisions set forth in Clauses 1, 2, and 3 of this Article and have held the rank of Plant Protection Technician Level IV for the following specific periods:

a) In cases where the initial recruitment has a college degree, they must have worked in the rank of Plant Protection Technician Level IV for at least two years;

b) In cases where the initial recruitment has a secondary vocational degree, they must have worked in the rank of Plant Protection Technician Level IV for at least three years;

Article 6. Plant protection technician level IV - Code: V.03.01.03

1. Tasks

a) Carry out tasks at model points or demonstration points and guide workers and farmers to widely apply new measures, scientific and technological advancements in plant protection, or integrated pest management procedures for major crops in the assigned area;

b) Implement monitoring indicators regarding: the biological resistance dynamics of major crop varieties in the assigned area; the resistance to pesticides and tolerance due to the use of other control methods of major pests on major crops in the assigned area;

c) Conduct surveys at some typical points on the situation of plant protection activities, economic and technical effectiveness of pest control measures, and guide workers and farmers to record and report on this situation at production facilities throughout the assigned area;

d) Collect information and data and initially process such information and data on plant protection situations, prepare tables and reports as prescribed;

đ) Carry out one or more stages of the experimental survey procedure for plant protection measures; monitor, record the survey and experimental indicators, prepare tables and reports as prescribed;

e) Properly use pesticides, pumps, and equipment for pest control. Be personally responsible for these materials, equipment, and tools. Guide workers and farmers to properly use and store pesticides, pumps, and handle pesticide packaging;

a) Graduated from a college or higher education institution relevant to plant protection;

b) Possess Level 1 foreign language proficiency as stipulated in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Education and Training on the Foreign Language Competency Framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer technology skills according to Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Technology Competency Standards;

a) Understand the industry's policies on plant protection and related legal provisions concerning assigned tasks;

b) Understand the methods of monitoring, recording, statistics, initial processing of investigation and experimental tracking indicators, and the methods of conducting one or more stages of assigned surveys and experiments;

c) Understand plant protection procedures and regulations;

d) Understand the features, effects, and usage methods of plant protection equipment and materials, as well as survey and experimental equipment and materials;

Chapter III

PROFESSIONAL TITLE STANDARDS FOR SPECIALIZED CIVIL SERVANTS IN PESTICIDE REGULATION

Article 7. General ethical standards for specialized civil servants in pesticide regulation

1. Passionate about the profession, actively researching, humbly learning, and applying scientific and technological achievements in work;

2. Spirit of internal solidarity, listening to colleagues' opinions, and proactively coordinating with colleagues to fulfill assigned tasks;

3. Strictly adhere to professional activity regulations and rules;

4. Continuously study to improve professional expertise, foreign languages, and computer skills to effectively complete assigned tasks;

5. Responsible for managing assets, materials, machinery, and equipment and documents serving pesticide regulation work.

Article 8. Plant protection chemical inspector level II - Code: V.03.02.04

1. Tasks

a) Chair or participate in organizing and implementing plans and schemes for plant protection chemical testing and evaluation activities;

b) Chair and carry out complex stages in the process of testing and evaluating plant protection chemicals;

c) Recheck the results of plant protection chemical testing and evaluation conducted by lower-level staff; compile, assess the situation of plant protection chemical inspection work at the unit and assigned area, and propose policies and measures to establish systems and policies suitable for each period based on that;

d) Chair or participate in organizing and implementing scientific research topics on plant protection chemical testing and evaluation methods; propose the development, supplementation, and modification of testing and evaluation procedures and regulations for plant protection chemicals;

đ) Chair or participate in setting goals, programs, contents, drafting materials, and organizing technical training for lower-level positions;

e) Participate in building technical bases for plant protection chemical inspection at the unit and assigned area.

a) Graduated from a university or higher in plant protection or relevant fields suitable for the position;

b) Possess a minimum level 3 proficiency in foreign languages as prescribed in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014 of the Ministry of Education and Training on the Foreign Language Proficiency Framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer skills as prescribed in Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014 of the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Skills Standards;

d) Hold a certificate for plant protection chemical inspector level II.

a) Master the Party's guidelines, policies, and state laws and relevant industry laws related to plant protection chemical work;

b) Master laws on plant protection and quarantine and related legal provisions;

c) Master testing and evaluation procedures and regulations for plant protection chemicals;

d) Understand the situation regarding plant protection, plant protection chemicals, management, testing, and evaluation of plant protection chemicals both domestically and internationally;

đ) Possess scientific research capabilities and be aware of the latest achievements in related sciences concerning plant protection chemical inspection both domestically and internationally;

e) Understand production, economic, political, and social situations related to plant protection chemical testing and evaluation activities;

g) Chair or participate in scientific research projects or proposals recognized and effectively implemented by the Ministry-level or provincial-level Science Councils.

Staff promoted from the position of plant protection chemical inspector level III to level II must have held the level III position or equivalent for a minimum of nine years, including at least two years in the most recent period holding the level III position.

Article 9. Plant protection chemical inspector level III - Code: V.03.02.05

1. Tasks

a) Organize and implement quality testing, residue testing, and evaluation of plant protection chemicals;

b) Guide and supervise workers and technicians in preparing equipment, materials, mixing chemicals and plant protection chemicals, and conducting some stages in the analysis and evaluation process;

c) Directly conduct complex stages in the analysis and evaluation process;

d) Check and compile data to conclude or report on the results of plant protection chemical testing and evaluation;

đ) Participate in building and implementing scientific research topics on plant protection chemical inspection;

e) Provide professional technical training for plant protection chemical testing and evaluation for lower-level staff;

a) Hold a bachelor's degree or higher in plant protection or other relevant fields suitable for the position;

b) Possess a level 2 foreign language proficiency as stipulated in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Education and Training regarding the six-level foreign language competency framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer skills as prescribed in Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014 of the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Skills Standards;

d) Hold a certificate for plant protection chemical inspector level III.

a) Understand the Party's guidelines, policies, and state laws and relevant industry laws related to assigned tasks;

b) Understand laws on plant protection and quarantine;

c) Understand testing and evaluation procedures and regulations for plant protection chemicals;

d) Understand analytical and evaluation methods and skills for plant protection chemicals;

đ) Understand safety rules for chemicals and plant protection chemicals, the functions and effects of these chemicals, and the uses of materials and equipment for analyzing and evaluating them;

e) Understand the use of chemicals and the situation regarding plant protection in the assigned area;

Staff promoted from the position of plant protection chemical technician level IV to plant protection chemical inspector level III must meet all the requirements stipulated in Clauses 1, 2, and 3 of this Article and have held the plant protection chemical technician level IV position for the following specific periods:

a) For initial recruitment with a college degree, must have worked in the position of plant protection chemical technician level IV for a minimum of two years;

b) For initial recruitment with a secondary vocational degree, must have worked in the position of plant protection chemical technician level IV for a minimum of three years.

Article 10. Plant protection chemical testing technician level IV - Code: V.03.02.06

1. Tasks

a) Carry out the preparation of materials and equipment for plant protection chemical testing and trials; prepare some basic chemical solutions for analysis and formulation of plant protection chemicals for trials.

b) Conduct one or more stages of the process for testing and trialing plant protection chemicals.

c) Monitor, record, and statistically compile data on indicators related to the analysis and trial of plant protection chemicals.

d) Use and maintain equipment and materials for testing and trialing plant protection chemicals; be personally responsible for those items.

a) Graduated from a college or higher degree relevant to the field of plant protection.

b) Possess Level 1 foreign language proficiency as stipulated in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Education and Training on the Foreign Language Competency Framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer technology skills according to Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Technology Competency Standards;

a) Understand legal regulations related to plant protection and quarantine concerning assigned tasks.

b) Understand the procedures and norms for testing and trialing types of plant protection chemicals assigned to perform.

c) Understand the functions, effects, and uses of some equipment and materials for testing and trialing plant protection chemicals, as well as their usage and maintenance methods.

d) Understand the methods and skills for preparing some chemicals used for analysis and plant protection chemicals for trials.

Chapter IV

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION STANDARDS FOR PLANT TESTING TECHNICIANS

Article 11. General ethical standards for plant testing technicians

1. Passionate about the profession, actively researching, humbly learning, and applying scientific and technological achievements in work;

2. Spirit of internal solidarity, listening to colleagues' opinions, and proactively coordinating with colleagues to fulfill assigned tasks;

3. Strictly adhere to professional activity regulations and rules;

4. Continuously study to improve professional expertise, foreign languages, and computer skills to effectively complete assigned tasks;

5. Be responsible for managing assets, materials, machinery, and equipment and documents serving plant testing work.

Article 12. Plant testing technician level II - Code: V.03.03.07

1. Tasks

a) Participate in developing plans for plant variety testing, product testing, and seed testing for certain types of plant varieties, products, and fertilizers; effectively and accurately implement these plans.

b) Organize and carry out plant variety testing, product testing, and seed testing; conduct plant variety testing and product testing and inspect plant varieties, products, and fertilizers based on ensuring compliance with technical and technological procedures for plant variety testing and fertilizer testing.

c) Lead the organization and implementation of production processes and technological procedures and promptly propose measures during the production, sale, and testing of plant varieties and fertilizers; inspect the quality of plant varieties and products, and fertilizers produced and sold by relevant entities.

d) Lead or participate in scientific research projects on plant variety testing and fertilizer testing; plant variety testing.

e) Participate in building and revising quality standards for seeds and fertilizers and norms for plant variety testing, technical procedures, and testing methods for plant varieties and fertilizers; plant variety testing.

f) Participate in drafting content and organizing training programs for lower-level positions in the fields of plant variety testing, product testing, and fertilizer testing.

a) Graduated from a university or higher in crop science or a relevant field suitable for the position.

b) Possess a minimum level 3 proficiency in foreign languages as prescribed in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014 of the Ministry of Education and Training on the Foreign Language Proficiency Framework for Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer skills as prescribed in Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014 of the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Skills Standards;

d) Hold a certificate for plant testing technician level II.

a) Firmly grasp the Party's policies and State laws regarding plant variety testing, product testing, and fertilizer testing, product quality regulations, and laws on plant varieties and fertilizers of relevant countries.

b) Firmly grasp the procedures and norms for plant variety testing, product testing, and quality inspection of plant varieties, products, and fertilizers.

c) Proficient in techniques for plant variety testing, product testing, and quality inspection of plant varieties and products, and issuing certificates for plant varieties, products, and fertilizers.

d) Skillfully use laboratory equipment for plant variety testing, product testing, seed storage, and fertilizer preservation, and identify issues arising during equipment use.

e) Understand advancements in science and technology related to plant varieties, products, and fertilizers both domestically and internationally.

f) Lead or participate in scientific research projects or proposals recognized and implemented effectively by the Ministry-level or provincial Science Council.

A staff member promoted from the rank of plant testing technician level III to plant testing technician level II must have held the rank of plant testing technician level III or equivalent for at least nine years, including at least two years in the most recent period holding the rank of plant testing technician level III.

Article 13. Plant Variety Inspector Level III - Code: V.03.03.08

1. Tasks

a) Develop plans and schemes for testing, inspecting, and certifying certain types of plant varieties, plant products, and fertilizers according to assigned tasks, organize the implementation of these plans and schemes effectively and accurately, and be responsible for the results of their work;

b) Organize the testing and inspection of plant varieties and fertilizers in accordance with technical procedures and technological processes, record and statistically compile the test and inspection results accurately according to forms, and be responsible for the results. Directly inspect the production and business processes of plant varieties and fertilizers to serve the testing and inspection of plant varieties and fertilizers, and certification of fertilizers;

c) Promote and guide production and business establishments of plant varieties and fertilizers to strictly comply with state laws on plant variety work, fertilizers, and product quality;

d) Evaluate and summarize the process of testing and inspecting plant varieties and fertilizers; certify plant varieties within the assigned field, and propose necessary supplements to technical procedures and technological processes for testing and inspecting plant varieties and fertilizers, and certifying plant varieties based on that;

đ) Participate in scientific research topics related to testing and inspecting plant varieties, plant products, and fertilizers;

e) Conduct training on testing and inspecting plant varieties and fertilizers; certifying plant varieties for technicians and collaborators;

a) Hold a bachelor's degree or higher in crop production or other relevant majors suitable for the position;

b) Possess level 2 foreign language proficiency as stipulated in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Education and Training on the six-level foreign language proficiency framework applicable in Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer skills as prescribed in Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014 of the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Skills Standards;

d) Hold a certificate for Plant Variety Inspector Level III;

a) Understand the Party’s policies and state laws and those of the relevant sector concerning the assigned work;

b) Master basic knowledge about plant variety work and fertilizers;

c) Be proficient in testing and inspection procedures and regulations for plant varieties and fertilizers;

d) Know how to use and be skilled in operating laboratory equipment to support the inspection of plant varieties and fertilizers;

đ) Understand the relationships and coordination in the process of testing, inspecting, and certifying plant varieties, plant products, and fertilizers;

A civil servant promoted from the title of Plant Variety Technician Level IV to the title of Plant Variety Inspector Level III must meet all the provisions of Clauses 1, 2, and 3 of this Article and have held the title of Plant Variety Technician Level IV for the following specific period:

a) In the case of initial recruitment with an associate degree, must have at least two years of experience holding the title of Plant Variety Technician Level IV;

b) In the case of initial recruitment with a secondary vocational degree, must have at least three years of experience holding the title of Plant Variety Technician Level IV.

Article 14. Plant Variety Testing Technician Level IV - Code: V.03.03.09

1. Tasks

a) Carry out sampling, dividing samples, preserving samples, and storing testing samples for plant varieties and fertilizers;

b) Prepare experimental equipment and chemicals, and prepare testing chemicals for plant varieties, crop products, and fertilizers according to technical procedures;

c) Use, maintain, and service laboratory equipment and materials, and be personally responsible for such equipment and materials;

d) Record and compile data on testing results for plant varieties and fertilizers according to prescribed forms and be responsible for the results thereof;

a) Graduated from a college level or higher in agriculture or related fields suitable for the field of plant variety and crop product testing and fertilizer quality control;

b) Possess a foreign language proficiency level 1 as stipulated in Circular No. 01/2014/TT-BGDĐT dated January 24, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Education and Training regarding the six-level foreign language proficiency framework applicable in Vietnam;

c) Possess basic computer technology skills according to Circular No. 03/2014/TT-BTTTT dated March 11, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Information and Communications on Computer Technology Competency Standards;

a) Understand basic principles of plant variety and fertilizer testing and certification;

b) Understand the operation principles of simple equipment in testing laboratories;

c) Understand basic quality criteria for plant varieties, crop products, and fertilizers and testing methods (experimental methods);

d) Understand the preparation procedures for testing chemicals;

e) Understand the principles and methods of sample storage in warehouses for plant varieties and fertilizers;

Chapter V

GUIDELINES FOR APPOINTMENT AND SALARY GRADING BY PROFESSIONAL TITLES

Article 15. Principles of Appointment and Salary Classification for Professional Positions in Agriculture and Plant Protection

1. The appointment to professional positions for officials as stipulated in this Joint Circular must be based on their current job positions, tasks, specialties, and professional duties, and in accordance with Article 16 of this Joint Circular.

2. When appointing from the current rank of officials to professional positions in agriculture and plant protection, it shall not combine salary grade increases or promotions in professional position ranks.

Article 16. Cases of Appointment to Professional Positions

Officials who have been appointed to the agricultural and plant protection specialties as specified in Decision No. 417/TCCP-VC dated May 29, 1993, of the Minister, Head of the Government Organization and Cadre Department on issuing the professional standards for civil servant ranks in the agriculture and food industry sector, and Decision No. 78/2004/QĐ-BNV dated November 3, 2014, of the Minister of Home Affairs on issuing the list of civil servant and official ranks, now being appointed to professional positions in agricultural and plant protection specialties as specified in this Joint Circular, are as follows:

1. Plant Protection Professional Position:

a) Appoint to the Plant Protection Officer Level II (code V.03.01.01) for officials currently holding the Senior Plant Protection Forecasting Officer rank (code 09.059);

b) Appoint to the Plant Protection Officer Level III (code V.03.01.02) for officials currently holding the Plant Protection Forecasting Officer rank (code 09.060);

c) Appoint to the Plant Protection Technician Level IV (code V.03.01.03) for officials currently holding the Plant Protection Forecasting Technician rank (code 09.061).

2. Pesticide Inspection Professional Position:

a) Appoint to the Pesticide Inspector Level II (code V.03.02.04) for officials currently holding the Senior Pesticide Inspector rank (code 09.063);

b) Appoint to the Pesticide Inspector Level III (code V.03.02.05) for officials currently holding the Pesticide Inspector rank (code 09.064);

c) Appoint to the Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV (code V.03.02.06) for officials currently holding the Pesticide Inspection Technician rank (code 09.065).

3. Plant Variety Testing Professional Position:

a) Appoint to the Plant Variety Tester Level II (code V.03.03.07) for officials currently holding the Senior Plant Variety Tester rank (code 09.071);

b) Appoint to the Plant Variety Tester Level III (code V.03.03.08) for officials currently holding the Plant Variety Tester rank (code 09.072);

c) Appoint to the Plant Variety Testing Technician Level IV (code V.03.03.09) for officials currently holding the Plant Variety Testing Technician rank (code 09.073).

Article 17. Salary Classification

1. The occupational titles in the specialized fields of crop production and plant protection shall apply the salary scale for professional and technical staff in state-run units as set forth in Scale 3 issued together with Decree No. 204/2004/NĐ-CP dated December 14, 2004 of the Government on the salary system for civil servants, public officials, and armed forces personnel as follows:

a) The occupational title of Plant Protection Officer Level II, Pesticide Inspector Level II, and Crop Testing Officer Level II shall apply the coefficient of Public Official Category A2, Group A2.2 (from coefficient 4.00 to coefficient 6.38);

b) The occupational title of Plant Protection Officer Level III, Pesticide Inspector Level III, and Crop Testing Officer Level III shall apply the coefficient of Public Official Category A1 (from coefficient 2.34 to coefficient 4.98);

c) The occupational title of Plant Protection Technician Level IV, Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV, and Crop Testing Technician Level IV shall apply the coefficient of Public Official Category B (from coefficient 1.86 to coefficient 4.06).

2. Salary Classification Upon Completion of Probationary Period and Appointment to the Recruited Occupational Title

After completing the probationary period as prescribed and being appointed to the recruited occupational title by the competent authority managing public officials, the following salary classification shall be implemented:

a) In case of having a doctoral degree in crop production and plant protection, the third level with a coefficient of 3.00 of the Plant Protection Officer Level III (code V.03.01.02), Pesticide Inspector Level III (code V.03.02.05), and Crop Testing Officer Level III (code V.03.03.08) shall be assigned;

b) In case of having a master's degree in crop production and plant protection, the second level with a coefficient of 2.67 of the Plant Protection Officer Level III (code V.03.01.02), Pesticide Inspector Level III (code V.03.02.05), and Crop Testing Officer Level III (code V.03.03.08) shall be assigned;

c) In case of having a college degree in crop production and plant protection, the second level with a coefficient of 2.06 of the Plant Protection Technician Level IV (code V.03.01.03), Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV (code V.03.02.06), and Crop Testing Technician Level IV (code V.03.03.09) shall be assigned.

3. Salary Classification for Public Officials into Occupational Titles as Provided in Clause 1 of this Article for Public Officials Already Classified into Agricultural and Plant Protection Ranks as Set Out in Decision No. 417/TCCP-VC dated May 29, 1993 of the Minister, Head of the Organizational - Cadre Department of the Government on the issuance of professional standards for agricultural and food industry cadres, Decision No. 78/2004/QĐ-BNV dated November 3, 2014 of the Minister of Home Affairs on the issuance of the list of cadres and public officials, and Decree No. 204/2004/NĐ-CP dated December 14, 2004 of the Government on the salary system for civil servants, public officials, and armed forces personnel shall be carried out as follows:

a) In case a public official meets the conditions for appointment to an occupational title in crop production and plant protection with the same salary grade coefficient as the old rank, the current salary grade and percentage of seniority allowance exceeding the ceiling (if any) enjoyed in the old rank (including time for the next salary grade increase review or seniority allowance exceeding the ceiling if any in the old rank) shall be applied to the newly appointed occupational title.

Example 1: Mr. Nguyen Van B was classified as a Seed Testing Officer (code 09.072), Grade 5, with a coefficient of 3.66 from January 1, 2013. Now he meets the conditions and has been appointed by the competent authority to the occupational title of Crop Testing Officer Level III (code V.03.03.08). He will be assigned Grade 5 with a coefficient of 3.66 of the Crop Testing Officer Level III from the date of the decision; the time for the next salary grade increase review will be counted from January 1, 2013.

b) In case a public official with a college degree in crop production and plant protection was classified under Public Official Category A0 according to Decree No. 204/2004/NĐ-CP dated December 14, 2004 of the Government on the salary system for civil servants, public officials, and armed forces personnel, and now is appointed to the occupational title of Plant Protection Technician Level IV (code V.03.01.03); Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV (code V.03.02.06); and Crop Testing Technician Level IV (code V.03.03.09), the salary grade assignment within the occupational title of Plant Protection Technician Level IV, Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV, and Crop Testing Technician Level IV shall be based on the time of compulsory social insurance contributions according to the salary scale prescribed by the State (excluding the probationary period) as follows:

Starting from the second level of the occupational title of Plant Protection Technician Level IV, Pesticide Inspection Technician Level IV, and Crop Testing Technician Level IV, every two years (24 months) shall be assigned one higher salary grade (if there is a break in service without enjoying social insurance benefits, it can be accumulated). In case there is a year during the service period where the assigned tasks are not completed or disciplinary action is taken, the time for the next salary grade increase will be extended according to the regular salary grade increase system.

After transferring to the technical title rank of Plant Protection Technician Grade IV, Pesticide Quality Control Technician Grade IV, and Crop Testing Technician Grade IV as mentioned above, if the salary coefficient assigned at the technical title rank of Plant Protection Technician Grade IV, Pesticide Quality Control Technician Grade IV, and Crop Testing Technician Grade IV plus any seniority allowance exceeding the framework (if applicable) is lower than the salary coefficient enjoyed at the old rank, then the difference coefficient shall be retained to equalize the salary coefficient (including any seniority allowance exceeding the framework, if applicable) currently enjoyed at the old rank. This retained difference coefficient shall be enjoyed throughout the period during which the civil servant is assigned a salary at the technical title rank of Plant Protection Technician Grade IV, Pesticide Quality Control Technician Grade IV, and Crop Testing Technician Grade IV. Subsequently, if the civil servant is promoted to a higher technical title rank, this retained difference coefficient shall be added to the current salary coefficient (including any seniority allowance exceeding the framework, if applicable) for assignment of salary at the newly appointed technical title rank upon promotion, and the retention of the difference coefficient shall cease from the date of receiving salary at the new technical title rank.

Example 2: Mr. Nguyen Van D, with a college degree in crop production and plant protection, has been recruited as a civil servant at the Crop Seed Testing Center since January 1, 2008, and has been assigned Level 3, with a salary coefficient of 2.72 of Category A0 since July 1, 2014, and has consistently completed assigned tasks without disciplinary actions during his tenure. Now, he is appointed to the technical title rank of Crop Testing Technician Grade IV (code V.03.03.09) by the competent authority, the ranking of salary levels within the technical title rank of Crop Testing Technician Grade IV will be as follows:

Mr. Nguyen Van D's service time from January 1, 2008, excluding the six-month probationary period, starts from Level 2 of the technical title rank of Crop Testing Technician Grade IV, and every two years, he advances one level, thus on July 1, 2014, he was assigned to Level 5, with a salary coefficient of 2.66 of the technical title rank of Crop Testing Technician Grade IV; the time enjoying the new salary level at the technical title rank of Crop Testing Technician Grade IV begins from the date of signing the decision; the next salary advancement review period starts from July 1, 2014; simultaneously, he enjoys a retained difference coefficient of 0.06 (2.72 - 2.66).

4. Promotion to a higher technical title rank for civil servants in the field of crop production and plant protection shall be carried out after being appointed to the technical title rank for civil servants in crop production and plant protection as stipulated in this Joint Circular, and the salary assignment shall follow the guidance provided in Clause 1, Section II of Circular No. 02/2007/TT-BNV dated May 25, 2007, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs guiding the assignment of salaries when upgrading ranks, changing ranks, and changing types of civil servants and civil servants.

Chapter VI

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 18. Transitional Provisions

1. For civil servants currently working at public institutions and holding ranks such as Senior Specialist Rank (code 01.001), Senior Pesticide Quality Control Officer (code 09.062), Senior Crop Seed Testing Officer (code 09.070) or other equivalent ranks, their current ranks and salary levels shall be retained, and they shall continue to receive regular salary advancements according to regulations until retirement, transfer of work, or resignation.

2. In cases where civil servants have been appointed to the ranks specified in Decision No. 417/TCCP-VC dated May 29, 1993, issued by the Minister, Head of the Organizational-Cadre Department of the Government on issuing the criteria for the ranks of civil servants in the agriculture-industrial food sector, and Decision No. 78/2004/QĐ-BNV dated November 3, 2004, issued by the Minister of the Ministry of Home Affairs on issuing the list of ranks of civil servants and civil servants, now stipulated in this Joint Circular, the competent authority managing and using civil servants shall assign civil servants to participate in training courses to complete the qualifications for the appointed technical titles.

Article 19. Effective Date

1. This Circular takes effect from December 5, 2015.

2. Abolish the business standards for the ranks of plant protection, forecasting, and plant protection inspection, and seedling testing as stipulated in Decision No. 417/TCCP-VC dated May 29, 1993 of the Government Organizational Structure - Civil Servant Affairs Council (now the Ministry of Home Affairs) on issuing the business standards for the ranks of civil servants in the agriculture - food industry sector.

3. Abolish the provisions regarding the list of ranks of specialized plant protection forecasting and seedling testing technical inspectors as stipulated in Decision No. 78/2004/QĐ-BNV dated November 3, 2004 of the Minister of the Ministry of Home Affairs on issuing the list of ranks of civil servants and specialized ranks.

Article 20. Implementation

1. This Circular serves as the basis for implementing the recruitment, utilization, and management of specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection working in public service units.

2. Non-public organizations and non-public service units may apply the provisions of this Circular to recruit, utilize, and manage the specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection.

3. The competent authority managing and utilizing technical staff has the responsibility to create conditions for technical staff already appointed to the ranks of specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection to supplement the remaining standards of the position of specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection as stipulated in this Circular.

4. The head of a public service unit directly managing and utilizing specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection has the responsibility to:

a) Review job positions within the unit, develop plans for appointing positions of specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection within their management authority, submit to the competent authority for consideration and decision-making or make decisions according to delegated authority;

b) Appoint positions of specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection corresponding to the ranks currently held, according to their authority or delegated authority, after the plan for appointing positions has been approved by the competent authority;

c) Report the results of implementation to the superior management agency for monitoring.

4. Ministries, agencies equivalent to ministries, agencies under the Government, People's Committees of provinces and centrally-administered cities are responsible for:

a) Direct subordinate units under their management to implement the appointment of positions and salary grading for specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection;

b) Approve plans for appointing positions and salary grading for specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection under their management, from the current ranks to corresponding positions of specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection as stipulated in this Circular; resolve any issues arising during the process of appointing positions and salary grading according to their authority;

c) Appoint positions and salary grading for specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection under their management to corresponding positions in subordinate units under their management;

d) Annually report the results of appointing positions and salary grading for specialized technical staff in crop cultivation and plant protection under their management to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Article 21. Responsibility for Implementation

1. The Minister, Heads of Ministries equivalent to Ministries, Heads of agencies under the Government; Chairpersons of People's Committees of provinces and centrally-administered cities, and related agencies, organizations, and individuals are responsible for enforcing the provisions of this Circular.

2. During the implementation, if there are any difficulties, they should be reported to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Home Affairs for consideration and resolution.