Spray Equipment Operator

Southern Arkansas University; Boca Raton (FL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Arkansas University in Florida seeks a semiskilled worker to operate spray equipment for applying pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers to municipal parks and public grounds under supervision. You must read and follow label instructions and maintain safety protocols.

Essential tasks include calibrating equipment, applying chemicals, cleaning gear, and documenting pesticide use. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or GED, four years of experience, and a Florida

Qualifications

• Knowledge of weeds, fungus, pests, and diseases in turf.
• Knowledge of operating and servicing spraying equipment.
• Knowledge of applying pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers.

Responsibilities

• Operate spray equipment to apply pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers.
• Read, interpret, and follow label instructions.
• Calibrate sprayers and spreaders; document pesticides used.
• Clean and maintain equipment and perform related tasks.

Skills

Weeds knowledge

Pest management

Sprayer operation

Safety awareness

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Florida Pesticide license

Job description

Performs difficult semiskilled and intermediate skilled work in the regular operation of equipment used in the application of pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals; does related work as required. Work is performed under regular supervision.

YOU MUST ALSO POSSESS AND ATTACH COPIES OF THE FOLLOWING VALID CERTIFICATION AND SUBMIT WITH YOUR APPLICATION:

Essential Functions:

• Operates spray equipment in the application of pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers and other chemicals to municipal parks and public building site grounds in accordance with the federal and state laws.
• Read, interpret, and follow the label instructions for the application of pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.
• Applies chemicals to turf, athletic fields and other common areas by using handheld equipment, spray vehicles, backpack sprayers, motorized and push spreaders.
• Calibrates sprayers, spreaders and other equipment used to apply pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.

RELATED TASKS:

• Responsible for cleaning and maintaining the equipment used to apply pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers and other chemicals.
• Occasionally services and makes repairs and adjustments on spray equipment.
• Operates other equipment as needed.
• Performs related tasks as required.
• Performs ground maintenance duties when not operating equipment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Weeds, fungus, pests, and diseases found in South Florida turf.
• The principles and practices of operating and servicing spraying equipment.
• The techniques and methods used in applying pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals.
• The traffic laws and regulations governing equipment operation.
• The occupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary to the proper operation of spray equipment.

Skilled in:

• The use of assigned equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude.

Ability to:

• Use computer to complete required paperwork.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Make minor repairs and adjustments to equipment.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.
• Determine the appropriate pesticides, insecticides, herbicides or fungicides to be used to treat or eradicate the weeds, fungus, pests, or disease. must be able to document and log, in writing, all "pesticides" used during the course of your work.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• Four (4) years of experience in the operation and maintenance of motorized spray equipment and spreaders.
• Possession of Restricted Florida Pesticide Applicator license.
• Possession of a valid State of Florida Class ‘E’ driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) certification or ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Abstained from the use of cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products for at least one year prior to their date of hire and shall abstain from the use of tobacco products at all times during the period of their employment with the City while both on and off duty.

POST-OFFER BACKGROUND REQUIREMENTS:
The background check process for this position may include: