SPRAY TECHNICIAN I

Mendocino College; Vero Beach (FL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Grounds Maintenance Technician to ensure the beauty and health of public spaces. This role involves applying pesticides and fertilizers, performing essential grounds maintenance tasks, and following safety protocols. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with horticultural practices and the ability to operate various equipment safely. Join a team that values safety and environmental stewardship while contributing to the community's aesthetic appeal. If you're passionate about outdoor work and have a keen eye for detail, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 1 year of experience in horticultural pesticide application or grounds maintenance.
• Ability to operate various grounds maintenance equipment safely.

Responsibilities

• Applies pesticides and fertilizers to City-owned properties.
• Performs grounds maintenance tasks including planting and mowing.

Skills

Pesticide Application

Grounds Maintenance

Effective Communication

Safety Practices

Equipment Operation

Education

Horticultural Pesticide Application Experience

Grounds Maintenance Experience

Tools

Pesticide Sprayers

Mowers

Utility Vehicles

Hand Tools

Job description

Under general supervision, applies various pesticides and fertilizers to City-owned properties and performs a variety grounds maintenance tasks throughout the City on an as-needed basis.

The following duties are examples of the essential work performed by positions within this job classification. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind work assignments as needed.

• Applies fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, and other horticultural chemicals as directed.
• Identifies pests and diseases in turf grass and plant materials to determine appropriate chemical use.
• Performs grounds maintenance duties such as planting, weeding, mowing, pruning, tree or hedge trimming, tree removal, edging, trash pickup and disposal, plant removal, and watering when pesticide application isn't suitable.
• Follows standard operating procedures and safety practices, including assisting in traffic maintenance.
• Supports and promotes the City’s safety programs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of pesticide and fertilizer application using equipment such as ATV, wheeled sprayers, backpack sprayers, boom sprayers, walk-behind applicators, etc.
• Knowledge of various grounds maintenance chemicals including herbicides, fungicides, ant bait, pesticides, and fertilizers.
• Knowledge of horticultural pests, including insects, diseases, and weeds.
• Knowledge of groundskeeping practices and proper use of tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices related to chemical application and groundskeeping.
• Ability to operate vehicles, hand tools, and equipment safely.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.

Other Job Characteristics:

• Exposure to potential physical harm, infectious diseases, extreme weather, hazardous chemicals, and wildlife.
• Ability to perform heavy manual tasks for extended periods in all weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy or bulky items frequently (up to 100 lbs).
• Must wear PPE as required.
• Performs related work, including grounds maintenance when weather prevents pesticide application.

Tools and Equipment:

• City vehicles (including pickup trucks, dump trucks, tractors), pesticide sprayers, utility vehicles, mowers, blowers, edgers, chainsaws, string trimmers, and hand tools.

Education and Experience:

One (1) year of horticultural pesticide application and/or grounds maintenance experience or equivalent training and experience.

Licenses/Certifications:

Obtain a Limited Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide License (Chapter 482) within 6 months of hire.