Herbicide Heavy Equipment Operator

Lee County is looking for a dependable and safety-minded Spray Technician to join our Vegetation Management team. In this role, you will help keep our canals, ditches, and right-of-ways clear and safe by controlling weeds and overgrown plants.

This job is great for someone who enjoys working outdoors, likes hands-on tasks, and wants a steady career in public service where the work truly matters.

What You Will Do

• Apply pesticides and herbicides to canals, drainage ditches, and right-of-ways to control vegetation

• Operate Spray Truck, Spray Buggy, Spray Boat, Dump Truck, and Loader

• Drive and operate pickup trucks with trailers and other assigned county vehicles

• Load trucks with the correct pesticides and herbicides needed each day

• Keep accurate daily records of chemicals used and areas sprayed

• Help plan daily tasks with the crew supervisor

• Open and close weirs (water-control structures)

• Perform routine maintenance and simple repairs on spray equipment and tools

• Lift, push, pull, or move items up to 50 pounds

• Keep your truck clean and in good working condition

• Help complete time sheets and maintain inventory records

• Complete a monthly inventory of all pesticides and herbicides

• Perform other duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For

• High School Diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• One (1) year of experience operating heavy equipment or similar work, such as:
  • Vegetation control or grounds maintenance
  • Forestry or park maintenance
  • Canal, stormwater, or drainage system maintenance
  • Roadway or public works maintenance
  • Heavy equipment operation
  • Pest control or herbicide application
  • Agricultural spraying or field operations
• Ability to work in a safety-sensitive position and follow all safety rules and procedures

Licensing Requirements

• Must have a Florida Class B Commercial Learner’s Permit and a good driving record at the time of hire.
• Must obtain a Florida Class B Commercial Driver’s License within six (6) months of hire.

Preferred:

• Florida Class “A” Commercial Driver’s License.
• Previous experience driving heavy machines on work sites.

Safety-Sensitive Position

• This is a safety-sensitive position and is subject to Drug and Alcohol Workplace Testing in accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Parts 40 and/or 382).

Training Requirements

• You will receive in-house training on applied herbicide use
• You will learn how to safely operate all assigned equipment and follow proper procedures for chemical handling

Extra Skills

• Able to use hand tools, power tools, and equipment safely

• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions

• Good teamwork and communication skills

• Able to solve simple equipment or material issues on the job

Work Schedule:

• Tuesday- Friday 7:00AM-5:30 PM.
• Weekend or emergency response work may be required
• Additional hours may be needed during weather events or special operations

Why Join Us?

In this hands-on role, your work helps protect our waterways, drainage systems, and public spaces. You will receive competitive pay, strong benefits, and a reliable retirement plan through the State of Florida. Most importantly, you’ll be part of a team that takes pride in keeping Lee County safe, clean, and functioning for everyone.

About the Department

The Lee County Department of Transportation (DOT) plans, builds, and maintains the county’s roadway network. The department provides services such as roadway construction, traffic operations, drainage improvements, sidewalk installation, landscaping, and more. DOT is committed to safety, quality, and reliable service that supports a safe and efficient transportation system for all who travel through Lee County.

About Lee County

Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit. Find out more about Lee County at Lee County Government.