Under the general supervision of the Crew Leader, performs strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and non-target organisms, and the environment. Performs daily monitoring of pest and disease on landscape and turf. Duties include mixing chemicals and water in sprayer tanks and applying the pesticides/herbicides in the appropriate amount which may depend on weather conditions and application variables. Incumbent exercises independent judgment. Work is reviewed in progress and upon completion. Performs other work as necessary.
Daily monitoring of pests and disease on turf and landscape.
Application of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides to turf and landscape.
Applies herbicides and chemicals in a safe, effective and compliant manner, according to label in order to maximum coverage area while ensuring compliance with all applicable Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), State and County regulations and policies governing the application of pesticides.
Ensures safe distribution of chemicals and herbicides in designated City areas.
Sprays only during appropriate weather conditions to ensure intended, localized and lasting distribution.
Scouts for molds, mildews, pests and abnormal plant morphologies.
Coordinates scheduling of applications with Parks Supervisor and Recreation Staff to mitigate interfering with league play.
Maintains chemical inventory.
Keeps and maintains pesticide and fertilizer applications records.
Cleans, calibrates, and maintains spray truck and equipment to ensure proper coverage rates.
Proficient in the understanding of product labels, SDS, and mix rates.
Responds to work orders and carries out assigned tasks through utilization of materials and regulations.
Follows standard operating procedures (SOP) for assigned tasks.
Operates divisional equipment in a safe manner.
High school diploma or G.E.D.
Experience in evaluating and performing turf maintenance utilizing knowledge in IPM techniques.
Experience in chemical applications.
Pest identification knowledge required.
May be required to complete a respirator fit test.
Licenses, Certifications or Registrations: Must have a valid Florida Driver’s License. Applicants who possess a valid out of state driver’s license must acquire a Florida License within 10 days of employment. Must possess FDACS Public Applicator License with Ornamental & Turf Category or obtain within 6 (six) months of employment.Must possess Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) Certificate or obtain within 6 (six) months of employment.
General knowledge of the names, care, and maintenance of turf and landscaping at a golf course.
Ability to renovate and maintain turf grass and landscape.
Knowledge of pesticide labels and application rates.
Knowledge of basic math for determining square footage, acres, etc.
Knowledge of occupational safety rules and practices.
Knowledge of methods, materials and machinery.
Knowledge of hand held and boom sprayers.
Knowledge of the care and maintenance of various machinery.
Ability to operate and calibrate spray and fertilizer equipment in a safe and proper manner.
Ability to identify types of soil and their irrigation needs or requirements.
Ability to carry out oral and written instructions.
Ability to work courteously and effectively with others.
Ability to perform strenuous work in all weather conditions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Ability to operate motor vehicles (i.e., pick-up, van, etc.) in a safe and efficient manner; load or unload vehicles with objects weighing no more than 50 lbs. without assistance.
Ability to hear and understand conversation in a normal tone of voice. Use of senses which include sight, smell, hearing, and touch as aids in the evaluation and troubleshooting of malfunctioning equipment.
Ability to see, read, and draw letters, numbers, words, characters or symbols which are both large and small, as well as identify colors.
Use small hand tools – manual dexterity required.
Ability to move back and forth and sideways while in a bending, kneeling, or squatting position.
Ability to stay in a bending, kneeling, or squatting position for periods less than 10 minutes.
Ability to go from a standing or sitting position to a bending, kneeling, or squatting position, or vice versa, periodically.
Ability to learn complex tasks and remember how to complete tasks without assistance once trained.
Ability to walk, stand and sit for periods longer than 30 minutes. Walk continuously for more than 5 minutes at a time.
Ability to stand in a stationary position for more than 30 minutes at a time. May need to remain seated for more than 30 minutes at a time.
Ability to lift, carry, push or pull items which weigh up to 50 lbs. without assistance over uneven terrain, up/down stairs or ladders.
Ability to carry items for a distance which ranges from 1 yard to 100 yards.
Lift and/or carry items which are considered awkward to grasp or hold on to.
Lift items (weighing less than 40 pounds) above the head or down from over the head.
Hold items (weighing between 1 - 10 pounds) for a period less than 10 minutes.
Work at night in dimly lit conditions as necessary and during inclement weather.
Frequent exposure to chemicals, fertilizers, reclaimed wastewater, fuels and cleaning solvents.
Occasionally experiences deadlines under pressure and close attention to detail.
