PUBLIC WORKS HERBICIDE APPLICATOR
Pay Range 284

INTRODUCTION

This classification operates moderately complex vegetation control equipment, primarily in application of herbicide; perform routine maintenance on equipment.  This classification is represented by Teamsters Local 223.

EXAMPLES OF PRINCIPAL DUTIES  (Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples.  Any one position may not perform all listed tasks.)

1. As primary herbicide applicator, mix, load and apply chemicals and herbicides.  Calibrate spray equipment.  Maintain State-required records of chemical and herbicide applications.

2. Operate equipment used in vegetation and traffic control, such as:  herbicide spray truck, boom truck, chipper, mower, chain saw and stencil truck.  Load and safely transport equipment and materials.  Perform pre-trip inspections.

3. Fabricate and install traffic control signs in conformance with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

4. As relief paint striper operator, operate equipment used in traffic control, primarily paint striper equipment.

5. Perform repair on assigned equipment; includes minor maintenance and servicing, etc.

6. As needed, direct and regulate traffic through spray and painting operations by placing signs at job site, hold a hand sign, communicate with other employees and motorists in order to ensure safe passage of traffic through work zone.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION 

Knowledge of: Considerable knowledge of equipment, materials, practices and procedures used in roadside vegetation control; considerable knowledge of herbicides and rates required for application to vegetation and soils; reasonable knowledge of stencil operations; reasonable knowledge of minor repair of equipment; thorough knowledge of safety procedures; reasonable knowledge of the traffic laws and safety rules governing operations of motor vehicles and equipment on public roads.  Skill in:  Use of spray equipment; maintenance on safe operation of vehicles, equipment and tools used in area of responsibility; safe operation of equipment under adverse conditions.  Ability to: Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms; estimate time and materials and manage time efficiently; make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and use initiative and judgment in carrying out tasks and responsibilities; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; remain calm and use good judgment during confrontational or high pressure situations; courteously meet and deal effectively with other employees, contractors, vendors and the public.

Education, experience and training: Two years experience in the application of herbicides and operation of road maintenance equipment OR a satisfactory equivalent combination of experience and training.  At time of appointment, must possess valid Oregon Class A commercial driver=s license with tank and air brake endorsements and a valid Oregon Department of Agriculture applicator license. 

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS OF THIS POSITION

This classification works with supervision from a public works leadworker or supervisor.  Recurring routine assignments are independently performed by employee on basis of past experience. Employees estimates time and materials and manages time efficiently.  Employee uses initiative and judgment in completing routine assignments and interpretation of general administrative or operational policies and procedures is sometimes necessary.  Significant deviations require prior approval.  Work is checked at completion of projects.  Employees may or may not work in proximity of supervisor.

Applicators may be required to lead a crew of seasonal employees.

GUIDELINES

Work is performed within established departmental policy and procedure; federal, state and county statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances; equipment operation and maintenance manuals; herbicide reference materials; Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices reference materials; work zone traffic controls; OSHA standards.  Employee uses reasonable judgment, generally follows established guidelines and refers to supervisor in emergency or unusual situations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Regular and consistent attendance is required.  Work is performed on the County road system.  Physical demands may include bending, climbing on rough terrain, hearing alarms and voice conversations, kneeling, frequently lifting up to 60 pounds, pulling, pushing, raking, shoveling, standing for extended periods of time while flagging, twisting, walking and working with hazardous material, fumes, poison oak, insects, etc.  Work is performed in an environment which involves everyday risks or discomforts and sometime adverse weather conditions requiring safety precautions.  A significant amount of driving is required.