Open Space Field Operations Technician

Lead, oversee, and participate in the more complex and difficult work of staff responsible for the maintenance and repair of city open space areas, habitats, ecosystems, riparian areas, and facilities; inventory and purchase materials for construction,  and land improvement; and environmental restoration projects including ecological and biological improvements to habitats; and perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.

This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  Essential functions may include, but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

1. Lead, plan, train, and review the work of staff responsible for maintaining and improving city open space ecosystems, natural open space lands, habitats, structures, roads, and facilities.
2. Plan, direct, and participate in all open space construction, restoration, maintenance and repair activities; restore native areas, forest and rangeland restoration, plant trees and grasses, apply herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers, build and set concrete forms, pour and finish concrete; spread and roll asphalt; patch trail surfaces as required, etc.
3. Train assigned employees in their areas of work including construction, and land improvement; environmental restoration projects including ecological and biological improvements to habitats; road construction, vegetation, clearing, pesticide and herbicide application, equipment transporting, wetland construction, and procedures and techniques.
4. Train others in the identification and differentiation between native and non-native trees and plants for habitat restoration.
5. Oversee and perform forest-thinning operations using specialized brush and land clearing equipment.
6. Implement and oversee the implementation of forest and rangeland restoration projects including planting natives and grasses including using pole planting or propagation techniques.
7. Maintain and oversee the maintenance of riparian habitats including natural wetlands and oxbows.
8. Transport large equipment up to and over 40,000 ton.
9. Operate and supervise the use of, care, and operation of, construction equipment including specialized maintenance equipment, large equipment transports, earth moving equipment, grinders, hole-tree mulchers, excavators, brushcutters, and heavy trucks.
10. Verify the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper work methods, techniques, and compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
11. Utilize a wide variety of construction tools, equipment and materials to construct, repair and improve open space habitats and facilities; operate and/or drive all assigned vehicles and equipment.
12. Read, interpret, and follow construction blueprint plans, sketches, GPS maps, aerial maps, city zone atlas, and blue stake color markings.
13. Comply with the endangered species and the migratory bird acts and train others in compliance and bird identification.
14. As project leader, may act in the absence of assigned maintenance supervisor to coordinate schedules, issue work orders, direct tasks and personnel and inspect progress of work.
15. Provide technical assistance and on-the-job instruction to other workers to ensure compliance with maintenance, restoration, environmental, wildlife, and construction standards and specifications.
16. Ensure compliance with construction and building codes, traffic safety rules, standard ordinances, environmental laws, policies, etc. in accomplishing assigned tasks.
17. Coordinate with assigned Maintenance Supervisor regarding corrective actions to be taken to resolve problem hazards existing in open space areas, lands, and/or facilities.
18. Purchase maintenance and repair materials and supplies according to city purchasing standards and procedures.
19. Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.
20. Use radio procedures to communicate with field and base to coordinate and complete tasks.
21. May perform minor equipment/maintenance repair.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.
2. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

High school diploma or GED; and
 
Five (5) years of parks or grounds maintenance/repair and heavy equipment operation experience; and

To include two (2) years of lead or supervisory experience.
 
Training in habitat improvement and restoration, ecosystem and riparian area improvement, tree and plant identification, herbicide, pesticide and fertilization application preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

Possession of a valid New Mexico Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class A.
Possession of a valid City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire into position.
Possession of a herbicide and pesticide application license within six (6) months from date of hire.Environmental:
Field and construction site environment; work around traffic, heavy construction, specialized maintenance equipment, heavy brush clearing, and grinding equipment; exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and inclement weather conditions.

Physical:
Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for standing and walking for prolonged periods; moderate to heavy lifting; operating motorized equipment and vehicles.