What are the responsibilities and job description for the Open Space Field Operations Specialist UN position at Parks & Recreation?
Position Summary
Working through the Parks and Recreation department and in conjunction with the partnering agency, coordinate and participate in the more complex and difficult work in the maintenance and repair of assigned city open space areas, habitats, ecosystems, riparian areas and related facilities; inventory and purchase materials for construction and land improvement; environmental restoration projects including ecological and biological improvements to habitats; perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.
This is an unclassified “at will” position dependent upon funding.
Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements
High school diploma or GED preferred; and
Five (5) years of parks or grounds maintenance/repair and heavy equipment operation experience preferred; and
Training, education or volunteer experience in habitat improvement and restoration, ecosystem and riparian area improvement, tree and plant identification, herbicide, pesticide and fertilization application preferred.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
Possession of a valid City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire.
Possession of an herbicide and pesticide application license within six (6) months from date of hire.
Preferred Knowledge
- Native plant identification
- Methods and techniques of herbicide, pesticide and fertilizer application
- Methods of preservation, management, and maintenance of sensitive ecosystems
- Native tree and grass planting including propagation and pole planting techniques
- Operations, services and activities of a comprehensive construction and maintenance program
- Principles of lead supervision and training
- Methods and techniques of construction, maintenance, and repair
- Wetland, oxbow, riparian, and ecosystem construction, maintenance, and restoration
- Materials used in the construction, repair, and improvement of open space areas, native and natural habitats, and open spaces
- Operational characteristics of a wide variety of construction equipment and tools
- Occupational hazards and standard safety practices
- Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, regulations and codes
Preferred Skills & Abilities
- Resolve technical problems related to the maintenance and improvement of open space lands, ecosystems, wildlife, habitats, and facilities
- Lead, organize and review the work of staff in the area of work assigned
- Independently perform difficult construction, maintenance and repair tasks
- Provide technical assistance to assigned crew
- Obtain specialized certifications and training to perform required technical work
- Interpret, explain and ensure compliance of department policies and procedures
- Operate a variety of construction equipment in a safe and effective manner
- Perform materials purchasing according to established city procurement procedures
- Work independently in the absence of supervision
- Communicate clearly and concisely
- Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation