HERBICIDE TECHNICIAN

This position performs technical duties in the application of herbicides, pesticides, and other chemical applications in addition to performing grounds maintenance duties.

Herbicide Technician

Parks

JOB SUMMARY

This position performs technical duties in the application of herbicides, pesticides, and other chemical applications.

MAJOR DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Applies herbicides in parks, rights-of-way, and sports fields.

• Fertilizers parks and sports fields.

• Applies pesticides to parks and sports fields.

• Treats for mosquitos before games and special events.

• Assists with snow removal operations.

• Winterizes seasonal facilities, restrooms, drinking fountains, and concession stands.

• Participates in the maintenance and repair of irrigation systems.

• Cuts and trims park trees.

• Participates in the maintenance of park grounds and sports fields.

• Participates in the maintenance of city buildings.

• Repairs gates and fences.

• Operates equipment, including loaders, backhoes, and trucks as licensed; maintains and repairs equipment as needed.

• Assists with snow removal operations.

• Installs holiday and seasonal decorations.

• Attendance is an essential function of this position.

• Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of parks and grounds maintenance principles and practices.

• Knowledge of irrigation system maintenance principles and practices.

• Knowledge of chemical application tools, techniques, and regulations.

• Skill in the use of a computer to prepare chemical application records.

• Skill in the use of hand and power tools.

• Skill in the operation of a variety grounds maintenance equipment.

• Skill in problem solving.

• Skill in interpersonal relations.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Park Superintendent assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include rules governing the application of herbicides and pesticides and city and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related technical duties. Inclement weather contributes to the complexity of the work.

• The purpose of this position is to apply herbicides and pesticides and to participate in the maintenance of park facilities and grounds. Successful performance in this position contributes to the efficient and effective maintenance of city facilities.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city personnel, vendors, contractors, and the general public.

• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, or crouching. The employee occasionally lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, and uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity.

• The work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.

• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.

• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of South Dakota.

• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a state-certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License.