Noxious Weed Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Noxious Weed Supervisor, the Noxious Weed Assistant is a non-exempt position under FLSA. Among other duties this position is assists in fulfilling the state laws on noxious weed control, and the household hazardous waste/agricultural chemical program (HHW/AGCHEM); works with citizens, private industry and other municipalities with noxious weed problems; enforces the Kansas Noxious Weed Control Act; and provides responsive, courteous and efficient service to County residents and the general public.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (required):

1. Regular and dependable attendance required.
2. Gathers data and information for the Noxious Weed Supervisor.
3. Maintain records on all work performed.
4. Educates public through written promotion.
5. Maintain visual and analytical evaluations.
6. Attend training sessions on new chemicals, label changes and procedures; be aware of new laws and regulations concerning the use of pesticides,
7. Work with farmers, townships and cities with weed problems and noxious weed eradication.
8. Prepare chemical and pesticide solutions.
9. Load and unload chemicals and HHW/AGCHEM segregate HHW/AGCHEM products by SDS categories.
10. Bulk specific materials for recycling or incinerating.
11. Assist in county recycling collection point including loading and unloading recycling bins, preparing for and transporting bins to regional recycling center..
12. Spraying roadside for noxious weeds.
13. Operate other equipment in the public works area such as front-end loader, backhoe, dump truck, snowplow, side mount tractor mowers, boom mower, forklift and all-terrain vehicles with a sprayer or blade.
14. Must have and maintain a clean driving record, and the ability to legally operate a motor vehicle in the state of Kansas.
15. Must be able to obtain Fort Riley Access Pass for purpose of entry on to the military installation.

Must have and maintain a clean driving record for this position. A “clean” record is defined as: No misdemeanor or felony convictions for traffic/vehicular offenses (such as but not limited to DUI, vehicular homicide, reckless driving, hit and run, etc.) that are less than five (5) years old; no more than two (2) at fault or chargeable accidents that are less than five (5) years old; no more than two (2) traffic infractions (such as but not limited to speeding, failure to yield right of way, etc.) that are less than one year old.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements: The work environment and physical demand characteristics described here are representative and not intended to be fully inclusive of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to fumes or airborne particles, outside weather conditions, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and high, precarious places. The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

1. Assists other Public Works crews as directed.
2. Prepare non-compliance notices.
3. Performs mowing operations in the summer, and snowplowing in the winter along with other special assignments as requested from time to time.
4. Performs other duties as deemed necessary or assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

• General to advanced knowledge of the state noxious weed laws, pesticides, and chemicals and their application.
• Understanding and ability to calibrate and maintain equipment.
• Ability to read, understand, and analyze label recommendations.
• Ability to operate a spray truck, spray equipment, and other related equipment.
• Basic knowledge on computer operations.
• Ability to read and interpret technical data and contractor documents, and contract for service.
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor when dealing with others, with the ability to take control of situations and lead in a responsible and professional manner.
• Ability to interpret and implement local policies and procedures; written instructions, general correspondence, Federal, State, and local regulations, SDS, safety manuals, operating and repair manuals, warning labels, etc.
• Understanding of and ability to use GPS and GIS data relating to county landmarks, roads, etc.

Problem Solving: The employee is assigned recurring and routine tasks. Deviations, problems, and unfamiliar situations are reviewed for options before being referred to the Department Head. The Noxious Weed Assistant requires the ability to perform basic mathematical calculations; the ability to calmly and respectfully respond to complaints and grievances posed by others. Employee must be able to define problems and deal with a variety of situations while thinking quickly, maintaining self-control, and adapting to stressful situations. Must have and exhibit the ability to use good judgment and effectively solve problems.

Supervision/Accountability: This position works with direct supervision from the Noxious Weed Supervisor. This employee has no supervisory responsibilities over other personnel.. Employee is responsible for daily record keeping for cost accounting purposes.

Personal Relations:

• Ability to maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a professional and friendly manner with customers, citizens, co-workers, and management.
• Ability to communicate in both written and verbal form.
• Ability to communicate information, follow, and teach and train others regarding policies and processes in both written and verbal form.

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE: A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent required. Three years of weed control and chemical application experience necessary. A combination of education and experience that meets the minimum qualifications may be accepted. A current Class B CDL is required – the County is willing to work with otherwise qualified individuals to obtain the necessary license.

Technical certificates required within six months* of hire and must be maintained through employment:

• Commercial Applicator 9A Certification
• Basic Noxious Weed Short Course
• 24-Hour Household Hazardous Waste Training
• ATV/UTV Rider Training Course

*One extension may be offered as some courses have limited availability.