NOXIOUS WEED CONTROL SPECIALIST I
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS
WATER AND LAND RESOURCES DIVISION
Hourly Rate Range: $18.00 - $22.81
Job Announcement: 08MK7598
OPEN: 3/3/08 CLOSE: 3/17/08
WHO MAY APPLY: This position is open to the general public. This position works seasonally - approximately 7-8 months per year (typically March - November).
WHERE TO APPLY: Required forms and materials may be sent by one of the following ways (must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the closing date):
- In person delivery or US mail:
Michelle Kobuki, Human Resources - 201 South Jackson, #600, (KSC-NR-0600), Seattle, WA 98104 or
Contact (206) 296-8022 for questions regarding this announcement.
PLEASE NOTE: Applications not received at the location specified above may not be processed.
FORMS AND MATERIALS REQUIRED:
You must complete and submit all required materials; failure to submit all required forms and materials will prohibit further consideration.
WORK LOCATION: King Street Center, 201 South Jackson, Suite 600, Seattle, WA 98144
WORK SCHEDULE: This position is based on a 40-hour workweek and works approximately 7-8 months a year. It is covered by the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and therefore overtime eligible. The workweek is normally 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m., Monday through Friday. Attendance at meetings outside of normal working hours may be required.
JOB DESCRIPTION: The King County Noxious Weed Control Program works to prevent and reduce the economic, environmental and social impacts of noxious weeds in King County. The program’s focus is to achieve voluntary control of noxious weeds through education and technical assistance to landowners. Where this fails, regulatory compliance procedures may be used. The persons hired for these positions will work closely with the Noxious Weed Control Program Manager, other agencies and private landowners to develop and implement noxious weed control activities in a defined region of the county. The person will be responsible for the noxious weed control outputs in that region. For more information about the Program, please see: http://dnr.metrokc.gov/wlr/lands/weeds/prog_info.htm
PRIMARY JOB DUTIES INCLUDE:
- Conduct field surveys to identify, document and map noxious weed infestations.
- Frequent contact with landowners, providing information and technical assistance in plant identification and control options
- Communications with landowners to notify them of weed infestations, regulatory compliance requirements, and to provide educational and technical services regarding weed management.
- Respond to requests for weed management information from citizens and landowners.
- Maintain data in program databases (spatial and relational databases).
- Prepare written reports, letters and enforcement notices.
- Conduct and or gather research on the best methods for control or eradication of noxious weeds
- Participate directly in weed control activities, including the physical removal of
- Facilitates weed management efforts by working with volunteer and landowner groups
- Coordinate noxious weed management projects involving a range of stakeholders
- Conduct community outreach, public presentations training and educational events. Throughout the year, may serve at public events and fairs to answer questions about noxious weeds. Will also provide workshops and presentations throughout the year.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- At least 2 years of college-level training in plant biology, natural sciences, natural resource management, weed identification and/or related field (experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis).
- Ability to identify noxious weeds found in Washington. Knowledge of noxious weed taxonomy, biology, and impacts.
- Familiarity with integrated pest management and weed control methods. Demonstrated field experience and expertise in managing noxious weed infestations and their impacts to natural resources.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with the public on difficult, sensitive and technical issues, both verbally and in writing.
- Knowledge of Washington State Noxious Weed Control Law and other relevant local, state and federal laws.
- Experience in implementing regulatory compliance and enforcement procedures.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, coordinating with others to facilitate teamwork..
- Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously under tight deadlines, prioritizing work and managing own time.
- Knowledge of Microsoft Access databases, Arcview GIS, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and Microsoft Office applications.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT(S):
- A final offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment physical.
- Possession of a valid Washington State Driver's license prior to employment.
- Ability to conduct noxious weed surveys from a car, and on foot over terrain of varying difficulty, including steep areas and dense vegetation.
- Ability to control noxious weeds using Integrated Pest Management methods. Exposure to inclement weather conditions expected.
- Must be able to travel and work occasional evenings and weekends.
- Must be able to obtain a Washington State Public Pesticide Operator license within 30 days of hire.
Supplemental Questions:
Answers to the following questions must be completed and submitted with the application. The following questions address important elements of this position and the information you provide will help to determine your eligibility for further consideration. Your response should be 1-2 pages.
- Describe your experience and qualifications and why you would be the best candidate for this position. Focus on specific experience you have had performing some of the primary job duties described above.
- What do you believe are some of the most significant existing and potential impacts of noxious weeds in Washington State?
