GENERAL INFORMATION:

PAY GRADE: G9

This classification performs tasks related to natural resource management, protection, maintenance, security, visitor services, and recreational opportunities occurring on areas identified under Manatee County Natural Resources Department, Resource Management Division. Work is performed at all locations within the Resource Management inventory.

Working Conditions
Outdoors, variable weather conditions. Walking, standing on uneven terrain. Lifting equipment up to 50 lbs. alone; up to 100 lbs. with assistance.

Essential Physical Skills:

Use of hands and fingers with dexterity; use of both arms and legs; good vision and hearing with or without correction. Frequent work inside the office in a sedentary posture. Frequent walking, standing, lifting and carrying (25 pounds), reaching above shoulders, kneeling, bending and squatting and the ability to tolerate outside working conditions for long amounts of time throughout the year. Ability to operate County automobile, boat, machinery and other light and heavy equipment. Ability to complete an annual pack-test per the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) standards for wildlife firefighters at the "moderate" or "arduous" level.

JOB DUTIES:

Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Participates in all aspects of land management activities, including prescribed fire, mechanical treatment, restoration efforts, and herbicide applications.

Applies knowledge of potential hazards and applicable safety precautions necessary for the protection of the public and employees in a wilderness or parks setting;

Responsible for property surveillance and reporting of unauthorized access and vandalism to proper law enforcement agencies and supervisor.

Communicates clearly, effectively and tactfully, orally and in writing, including informing and/or educating the public and other staff members; renders assistance and information to visitors; participates in all aspects of recreation programs including the wildlife management hunt program; responds to needs of the public and promotes programs to the public.

Conducts daily maintenance activities that may include, but not be limited to, mowing, cleaning, trash removal, addressing recreational use needs or improvements, etc.; operates and maintains related equipment, i.e., tractors, disc harrows, bush hogs, etc., as required.

Accurately handles cash transactions, associated with the collection of fees for fee-based programs; maintains daily records as they relate to these programs.

Performs computer data entry.

Continues to learn and apply knowledge of native Florida plant communities, exotic plant species, and appropriate eradication techniques; properly uses herbicides in a safe and efficient manner. Uses correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and provides for safety of public and natural environment per herbicide product label instructions.

Records and maintains chemical inventory and records of chemical applications; stores and disposes of chemicals in accordance with applicable Federal, state and local rules and regulations.

Works independently, or as a team member, and carries out assigned duties; thinks and acts quickly, calmly and appropriately in emergency situations and under stressful conditions.

Satisfactorily completes related continuing education classes, as directed by the department.

Cross trains with other areas within the department.

Performs other related work (including weather or other extreme emergency duties) as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High school graduate/equivalent. Minimum of one (1) year of experience in conservation, land management, natural resource management, or related field. Valid Florida Pesticide Applicator License with Natural Areas Endorsement within one (1) year of hire. Valid Florida driver's license. Successful completion of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group Curricula within one year of hire (schedule permitting):
• Firefighter Training (S-130)
• Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190)
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Knowledge/Abilities/Skills
Ability to efficiently perform duties outdoors under varying, and sometimes extreme, environmental conditions.

Ability to work outside normal hours of business operation, which will include early, late and weekend hours.

Ability to climb and descend equipment, ladders, etc.; ability to physically navigate uneven terrain.

Basic skill in computer operations and pertinent MS Office software applications.