DescriptionSummary This position is primarily responsible for application of herbicides and other chemicals to control noxious weeds, nuisance plants and animals. This position is additionally responsible for the trimming and removing of trees within the county rights of way. This position is under the direct supervision of the Noxious Weed Director and/or his/her designee. Definition and Examples of Work 90% Control noxious weed and animal populations and maintain necessary documentation
- Complete all chemical, mechanical, and cultural control of noxious weeds and nuisance plants and animals.
- Apply chemicals using specialized spraying equipment in accordance with use instructions and applicable regulations.
- Maintain accurate records of sales and application of chemicals and records of equipment maintenance.
- Operate forklift in operation of warehouse herbicide stock in sales and application programs.
- Complete surveys and reports as required; may require precise geometric mathematical skills as required by Kansas Noxious Weed Law.
- May involve overseeing new employees to control noxious weed and animal populations compliant with department procedures and applicable regulations as required; may involve assigning tasks with clear/specific instructions and reviewing work for technical accuracy.
- Uses handsaws, pole saws, chain saws, and clippers to remove, prune and manage growth of trees and shrubs. Trims, tops, and reshapes trees to remove low-hanging branches that are impeding vehicles and motorists along county roads and/or blocking view of roadside signs that are within county rights of way and in certain situations that are allowed by statue in private property.
- Uses and operates chain saws, chippers and other related equipment needed to remove dangerous trees that are unsafe to motorists or pedestrians. In some cases, will remove dead and excess branches from trees from around power lines.
10% Perform additional support functions for the division
- Safely operate a variety of trucks, all-terrain vehicles in a manner to complete spraying activities and trim and/or remove trees.
- Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on division vehicles and equipment.
- Enter accurate customer sales and daily records in the computer
- Maintain cleanliness of shop and assigned work areas.
- Maintains awareness of safety policies and procedures including properly wearing and using personal safety equipment.
- Assist other department staff as needed (e.g., grass planting, right-of-way tree and brush maintenance, tree removal)
Additional duties may be assigned as business needs require. Requirements
- Excellent verbal and written English language skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Proficient in basic computer systems and software (e.g., email, timekeeping software, work order inputs)
- Advanced mathematical skills: ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
- Ability to complete field inspections and identify noxious weeds and nuisance plants and animals.
- Ability to follow instructions related to use of chemicals.
- Ability to maintain records and complete reports.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of information and professional demeanor.
- Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to chemical usage.
- Knowledge of herbicide and pesticide storage laws and regulations.
- Knowledge of current herbicide labels and laws.
- Knowledge of and ability to identify weeds and crops.
- Knowledge and ability to safely use chain saws.
- Knowledge of tree trimming and removal procedures.
- Knowledge of Finney County roads and state highways.
- Knowledge of Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical, and Fabrication procedures
- Knowledge of OSHA and MSHA regulations and rules.
- Valid Class B commercial driver's license (CDL) with proper endorsements
- Forklift operator license
- Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certifications
- Ability to obtain Defensive Driving certificate
- Occasional overtime
- Occasional travel
- Subject to call out
- Regular and reliable attendance onsite