Natural Resources Technician; seasonal

The Natural Resources Technician performs a variety of field based maintenance tasks within specific guidelines on Open Space and Trails (OST) properties throughout the County including open space, riverine and nature preserves. Assists OST staff with field implementation of in-house restoration and ecological enhancement projects.

• Conducts vegetation management and control of weeds, including use of manual, chemical, and/or biological control methods in restoration zones and county OST properties.
• Performs a variety of restoration, land stewardship and property maintenance duties.
• Assists with OST Maintenance Crew projects including construction and demolition, trail work, and signage installation and repair.
• Supports the relationship between Pitkin County government and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and County staff; maintains confidentiality of work‑related issues and County information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

This position follows a sequence:

• Level I
  • Up to 1 year of experience in landscaping, natural resource management or grounds maintenance, including experience with hand tools, power tools, and small engines (lawn mowers, weed whackers, etc).
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required;
    Associates Degree preferred.
  • Experience with vegetation management and basic ecological principles preferred.
  • First Aid/CPR Certification required within 1st year.
  • Complete pesticide application training within six months.
  • Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record.
• Level II (in addition to Level I)
  • 1-3 years of progressively responsible experience in landscaping, natural resource management or grounds maintenance, including experience in operation of large trucks, trailers, and small machinery (excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, tractors).
  • Basic knowledge of plant/noxious weed identification
  • S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaw Certification (required within 1st year).
  • Department of Transportation Flagger Certification (required within 1st year).
• Level III (in addition to Level II)
  • 3+ years of progressively responsible and applicable experience in landscaping, natural resource management or grounds maintenance, proficiency in operation of large trucks, trailers, and small machinery (excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, tractors).
  • Thorough knowledge of plant/noxious weed  experience with invasive weed management techniques/practices; complete knowledge of Pitkin County geography as it pertains to roads, trails, and open spaces; possesses basic trade skills.

• Safety policies, procedures, and practices for basic construction industry standards.
• Inventory management methods and practices.
• Personal protective equipment and proper use.
• Equipment troubleshooting methods.
  
  General maintenance practice and procedures.

• Safety policies, procedures, and practices for basic construction industry standards.
• Inventory management methods and practices.
• Personal protective equipment and proper use.
• Equipment troubleshooting methods.
• General maintenance practice and procedures.

• Majority of work is performed outdoors with exposure to inclement weather conditions and potentially dangerous tools and equipment. Regularly walks over uneven terrain. Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day.
• Position requires hearing, talking, sitting, standing, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movements.
• The position requires both near and far vision for inspecting work and operating assigned equipment. Lifting, carrying and pushing tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds is also required.
• Materials and chemicals may expose the employee to fumes, dust and air contaminants.
• This position may also engage with members of the public while conducting fieldwork. Ability to interact positively with the public and effectively communicate project goals.

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.