Spray Technician

Job description

Salary Range: $30,743.44 - $59,344.48 DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS OF WORK This is skilled work in the operation of equipment used in a municipal pest control program. Work in this class involves responsibility for continuous safe and efficient operation of automotive, marine, and spraying machinery/equipment in the application of pesticides and herbicides in accordance with all regulatory stipulations. The variety of pest targets includes insects, rodents, aquatic weeds, turf weeds, fungus, and plant pests. Chemical preparations are mixed, stored, used, and disposed of in accordance with state and federal guidelines. Work is generally performed independently in the field and the employee is required to follow all instructions with the greatest concern for safety. Work is reviewed by the effectiveness of the applications and completed work orders. ESSENTIAL EXAMPLES OF DUTIES The following illustrates examples of some of the essential duties and responsibilities of the Spray Technician. There may be other essential functions, not listed below, in order to accomplish the tasks as presented by the Supervisor. • Identifies pests, weeds, and plant material diseases that need to be controlled by the chemical application. • Prepares chemicals for application, which includes mixing and storing. • Sprays chemical solutions or dust powders in work areas. • Operates all related pesticide spray machinery and equipment. • Walks two to three miles along rights-of-way while applying herbicides. • Set traps and places poisonous bait in rodent infested areas. • Loads and unloads cases of chemicals in 2 to 2½ gallon containers and materials from trucks and storage areas. • Checks condition of assigned truck, small gasoline engines, and spraying equipment and makes minor repairs. • Installs or removes various types of mechanical equipment on vehicles according to assigned task. • Attends seminars and classes relative to pest control in order to keep necessary licenses up-to-date. • Completes daily assignment work sheets. • Performs related work as required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES • Knowledge of the methods, techniques, and objectives of pest control technology which includes right-of-way, turf and ornamental, and insect control. • Knowledge of the proper mixing and preparation of chemicals used in pest control programs according to labels and the law. • Ability to identify weeds and plant material diseases that need to be eradicated. • Ability to work with and handle toxic chemicals. • Ability to lift cases of chemicals weighing 40-50 pounds. • Ability to operate automotive, marine and machine equipment safely and efficiently during pesticide and herbicide applications. • Ability to detect equipment operating defects and either make minor repairs or initiate proper repair procedures. • Ability to follow all written or oral instructions. • Ability to develop and maintain effective and positive working relationships with other employees and the general public. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS • High school diploma or equivalent; • Have at least one year of experience in the pest control field, which includes operating mechanical pesticide/herbicide application equipment, or a minimum of two years in turf or landscape maintenance; • Ability to perform heavy, outdoor manual work in heat, rain and around chemicals and the ability to lift at least 50lbs. and walk and stand for long periods; • Must possess valid Ornamental & Turf, Aquatic Weed, and Right-of-Way applicator licenses/certifications and maintain such certifications current, as required by the State of Florida or possess the ability to pass those exams within 3 months of hire at own expense; • Must qualify for a Florida "registered technician" card under Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; and • Must possess a valid Florida driver license, and an acceptable driving record. Range 46 Revised: 04/10 Personnel Board Approved: 04/10 The City of Hialeah Human Resources Department is committed to providing employees an exceptional work environment where through hard work, dedication, and equal opportunity for learning and personal development, employees are able to grow, flourish, and make a difference in our community. The Human Resources Department ensures compliance with Federal, State, and local laws, collective bargaining agreements, and City policies, rules and regulations. The City of Hialeah is an equal opportunity employer. There will not be any discrimination or harassment of any kind on account of age, color, race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, marital or familial status, military service or any of the protected categories. The City of Hialeah is a drug and alcohol free employer.