Lead Applicator

Position Summary

Performs highly advanced technical work for all aspects of herbicide, pesticide, and fertilization application at Park sites.  Leadership position overseeing 2 spray techs, this position is responsible for detecting damage turf, plants, and trees; and working with the Field Supervisors to determine and apply treatments as necessary.  Calibrate equipment to ensure proper application of treatments, monitor results, and assist Field Supervisors with the general maintenance and upkeep of park properties.  Includes the application of pesticide and herbicide chemicals to public grounds in compliance with the Texas Department of Agriculture, Structural Pest Board, and federal, state, and City regulations and standards to control weeds and insects.   

Essential Job Functions

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Serves as lead worker responsible for spraying herbicides and insecticides

 Ensures the safety of City equipment, private property, and others by following proper safety procedures; performs routine checks and preventive maintenance on equipment; identifies and reports equipment malfunctions; cleans equipment as needed.

 Maintains complete and accurate records related to assigned work including work performed, pesticide usage, equipment repair and maintenance, and maintains an inventory of necessary pesticides and fertilizers. Supervises all Registered Technicians spraying pesticides under their Certified Applicator License.

 Inspects turf, ornamental plants, and public facilities to determine the type of chemical to apply; determines wind direction and velocity to prevent the spread of damaging airborne chemicals and ensure safe application.

Mixes and measures all chemicals and calibrates all spraying equipment in an accurate and safe manner to ensure compliance with the Texas Department of Agriculture and structural Pest Board, federal, state, and city regulations and standards.

Communication with supervisors to determine which current project needs attention for that day.

 Verify high quality work is completed for every task and provide constructive feedback when changes or enhancements need to be made.

 May operate mowers, tractors and other equipment related to turf maintenance as needed.

 Provide input regarding hiring and disciplinary actions.

 Complete written reports as required by management.

Minimum Education & Work Experience

 Must be licensed by State of Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) or Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) in Ornamental Plant and Turf Control, Plant Pest & Weed Control.  High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)  3 - 5 years of related experience  Up to 1 year in a leadership role Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Preferred Knowledge - Abilities & Skills

Preferred Qualifications

Education/ Experience:     

• 3-5 years of experience in coordinating a chemical program with the purpose of high quality turf.
• 1-2-year experience in a leadership role
• State of Texas Class B Commercial Driver's License or ability to acquire within 6 months of hire

 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:            

• Thorough knowledge of pesticides chemical application practices and procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of chemical application regulations and standards of the Texas Department of Agriculture, Structural Pest Board, Department of Water Commission, and Environmental Protection Agency.
• Working knowledge of equipment calibration techniques, pesticide chemicals and their usage, and chemical application safety techniques.
• Working knowledge of pest and plant diseases and weed types and applicable chemical control techniques.
• Ability to maintain written records. Computer, email, writing, planning, good oral communication.
• Comprehensive knowledge of turf maintenance
• Comprehensive knowledge of safety methods and procedures used in equipment operation
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to maintain professional relationships with subordinates, customers and management

Licenses & Certifications

 Valid State of Texas Class B Commercial Driver's License or ability to acquire within 6 months of hire  Requires current Texas Department of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator's License, a Structural Pest Control Board

Physical Tasks & Working Conditions

The incumbent works with frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Majority of work performed outside or with exposure to risk. May be exposed to extremes of heat and cold, rain, humidity, insects, noxious odors, fumes, and physical stress from exertion and lifting. Exposed to physical exertion such as bending, lifting, stooping, reaching, pulling, and pushing. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Competencies

Models Organizational Values Customer Service Interpersonal Skills Communication Problem Solving Dependability Adaptability/ Flexibility Productivity Quality Technical Skills Work Environment Safety Teamwork Managing Conflict Negotiation Skills