Gardener/Pesticide Spray Tech A08

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Work requires knowledge and ability to manipulate both tractor/mower and equipment controls at the same lime. Knowledge Of equipment to make multiple connections from the equipment to the tractor, connecting mechanical drive shafts and hydraulic lines. Skill in performing tasks associated with grounds maintenance. Knowledge of operating characteristics of the tractor and towed or attached equipment. Knowledge Of equipment capabilities.

Must have technical knowledge to apply and oversee the application of a wide variety of chemicals, fertilizers, fungicides, pesticides and herbicides. Must possess or be able to obtain an Initial DoD Pesticide Applicator Certificate or a Virginia State Certified Pesticide License within One year of employment and maintain certification thereafter. Must pass a pre-employment physical and annual physicals thereafter. Must possess a valid driver's license.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Receives Oral and written assignments from the Supervisor Or higher-grade worker. Performs duties according to established methods and special instructions. Selects appropriate gears, power settings, and speeds for equipment operations, based on various soil conditions. Makes judgments concerning lift capacity weight, and balance or load.

Responsible for operator maintenance on tractors and equipment such as checking and replenishing fluids to proper levels, examining and changing filters, changing and sharpening blades, lubricating equipment and making necessary adjustments PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work requires light to moderate physical effort in performing duties such as operating tractors/mowers. Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and arm and leg movement to work tractor controls.

Lifts and carries objects up to 45 lbs. independently and objects over 45 lbs. with assistance. WORK CONDITIONS: Work is performed predominantly outdoors. Subject to drafts, noise, and varying temperatures. Exposed to weather and temperature extremes outside, as well as high noise levels, vibrations, and jolts from equipment. Exposed to dust, dirt, grease, and fumes. Must follow safety practices and wear issued safety equipment. There is a chance of minor injuries such as bruises, cuts and scrapes.

Safety procedures and regulations must be of the foremost concern and carefully followed

Performs a variety of general grounds maintenance functions such as operations Of lawn mowers both towed and self-propelled, various trimming and spreading equipment both towed and self- propelled, and other tasks such as applying fertilizers and pesticides, seeding and sodding, watering and tree and shrub trimming and planning.

Responsible for calculating, measuring, mixing and applying pesticides and other chemicals per Federal and State requirements in the prevention and control of common plant pests, fungi and plant diseases. Independently considers individual needs or characteristics of plants in work such as adjusting mineral content of soil; sloping and planting of terraces; transplanting a wide variety of grasses, flowers, shrubs, and trees; and pruning trees to obtain a proper balance between roots and top growth.

Works from project plans, master landscape, and long-range plans, making independent judgments within the framework of good gardening practices Mulches and transplants according to seasonal demands. Connects hose and sprinkler system at designated points on grounds to irrigate lawns, flowerbeds and landscaping. Gathers, removes and disposes of all litter and debris, such as grass cuttings and leaves from assigned areas such as sidewalks, curbs and lots. Remove grass and weeds from cracks in pavement.

Operates a variety of hand and power operated garden tools and equipment such as seeders, spreaders, edger's, hedge trimmers, pruning shears, sprayers, lawn mowers and tractors. Utilizes hand-operated snow blowers, truck driven snowplows and ice chippers for snow/ice removal from sidewalks, steps, entrances and parking areas. Maintains all performs all maintenance on assigned operating equipment to keep them in a clean and operating condition. Inventories equipment and Stores chemicals safely.

Operates gasoline driven vehicles up to one and a half ton trucks as required. Drives and operates a tractor and a front-end loader if licensed. Performs weekly preventative maintenance to include but not limited to: checking the oil and water level, tires, battery, lights and general operating condition of work vehicles. Reports any deficiencies by verbally notifying the designated supervisor. Completes an Operator's accident report in Case Of an accident. Cleans and maintains equipment in an operating condition.

Abides by proper safeguarding procedures to prevent loss of assigned supplies and equipment. Keeps work area safe and clean. Repairs outside fences, sign posts, sidewalks, steps and curbs as necessary to upgrade and maintain appearance of outside assigned areas. Installs and removes fencing as required. Sets up and takes down tents and barbeque equipment in areas for special events. Power washes as required. Provides World Class Customer Service with an emphasis on courtesy.

Assists customers and communicates positively in a friendly manner. Takes action to solve problems quickly. Alerts the higher-level supervisor, or proper point of contact for help when problems arise. Adheres to safety regulations and standards. Promptly reports any observed workplace hazards, and any injury, occupational illness, and/or property damage resulting from workplace mishaps to the immediate supervisor.

Adheres to established standards of actively supporting the principles of the EEO program and prevention of sexual harassment. Performs other related duties as assigned/required.