Open Space Technician

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB SUMMARY:

The Open Space Technician performs risk assessment, maintenance, and repair of the City's Open Space and the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Performs a variety of semi-skilled maintenance and technical work. Positions in this classification are responsible for the successful completion of a variety of specialized work projects.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:

Incumbents in this classification perform journey-level technical duties associated with the assessment and maintenance of the City's Open Space system.

SUPERVISION

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:

The Open Space/Forestry Control Technician receives supervision within a framework of well-defined policies and procedures from the Ranger Service Supervisor or other assigned staff.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks that may be found in positions of this class.)

• Review and evaluate the City's Open Space and riparian network for flood control threats, then prioritize locations for remediation.

• Surveys the Open Space trails and WUI (Wildland Urban Interface) and records fire fuel threats or potential hazards that need to be addressed.

• Implements clearing debris from the Open Space and WUI using hand tools and power tools.

• Coordinates equipment and resources needed to reduce fire fuel hazards.

• Health and general risk assessment of riparian trees for potential delivery to the creek channel.

• Follow direction and provide written documentation of findings and determinations and make recommendations to the Ranger Service team.

• Determine property ownership in relation to calls from the public and evaluate response needed if any.

• Maintains records and logs of daily activities related to duties performed and equipment used.

• Performs resource management tasks, including identifying, controlling, and removing non-native invasive plants, pest control, identifying habitat concerns, and enhancing wildlife areas.

• Performs related duties similar to the above in scope and function as required.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:

• Creek hydrology and hydraulics; how does a creek move, flow and need to have knowledge to predict where energy from flowing water is going to hit or impact.

• Local flora, fauna, cultural, and geological resources. General knowledge of the WUI and fire risk prevention.

• Proper cleaning methods and the safe use of cleaning materials, disinfectants, paints, oils and stains, custodial tools, and equipment.

Ability to:

• Drive vehicles with trailered devices attached (e.g. chipper and dump trailer).

• Lift 40-60 pounds.

• Traverse uneven ground while visually scanning surroundings for areas in need of fire fuel reduction and flood control.

• Communicate tactfully, both written and orally, with staff and the public. Maintain effective working relationships with coworkers.

• Safely use and maintain small, mechanical hand tools (e.g. chainsaw, pole saw, hedge trimmer, etc.).

• Ability to operate large equipment (e.g. chipper, flail mower, utility tractor, masticator, etc.).

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

High school diploma or G.E.D.;

and

One year of experience in a similar field;

or

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

POSSESSION AND MAINTENANCE OF:

• A valid California class C driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.

• Completion of American Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and AED training within sixty days of hire and maintain certification throughout employment.

ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS:

Incumbents work in outdoor environments with moderate to loud noise levels. May work in controlled temperature conditions, cold and hot temperatures, or inclement weather conditions. Exposure to a variety of plant and animal species. Exposure to chemicals, mechanical and electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.

THIS POSITION WILL BE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE A FINAL OFFER IS MADE:

• Pre-employment Physical