Weed & Pest Control Technician

Valley County is looking for seasonal Weed & Pest Control Technicians to help with the identification and eradication of weeds and pests using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, utilizing safe chemical, biological (helpful insects), mechanical, and other environmentally sensitive approaches.  We are looking for people who enjoy working outside during the spring, summer, and fall months, and driving county pickup trucks, ATVs, and UTVs in the performance of their jobs.
 
We will provide training to the individuals selected for these positions in the identification and safe application of environmentally safe herbicides and pesticides in the eradication of noxious weeds, invasive plants, and biological pests.   This will include learning how to safely mix and dispose of various chemicals, using and maintaining spray and application equipment, and operating all-terrain vehicles.
 
As these are seasonal positions with Valley County, they are limited to no more than 8 months in duration and do not qualify for employee benefits.

Typical Duties & Responsibilities

Typical responsibilities include driving county roads in the location and identification of noxious weeds and invasive plants, safely mixing chemicals in correct proportions and preparing spray equipment for use in the field, applying environmentally safe herbicides and pesticides in accordance with established procedures, setting mosquito traps and conducting tests on captured specimens for various diseases, and completing written documents, safety sheets, and work logs.  

While performing the duties of this position, employees are frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, or manipulate tools used in performing the essential functions of the position. Employees must be able to reach with hands and arms, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds (and occasionally up to 75 pounds) with assistance. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing abilities required by this position includes those which permit the employee to discern verbal instructions and communicate effectively in person. Employees work in an outdoor environment where the noise level is usually moderate.  The work environment includes exposure to adverse weather conditions and exposure to hazardous chemicals. 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. 

Minimum Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a valid driver’s license, the ability to operate motor vehicles – including All Terrain Vehicles and Utility Terrain Vehicles, the ability to successfully study and test for a Professional Applicator’s License within the first 2 months on the job, basic math skills, sufficient written and verbal communication skills, a willingness to work with hazardous chemicals, and a willingness to work outside and in all weather conditions.

To view the official Valley County job description for this position, click here: Weed & Pest Control Technician.

Hiring is done without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity, pregnancy, or genetic testing.  In addition, preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

Salary : $17 - $25