Trades Specialist

position number:
county: pulaski
anticipated starting salary: $43,088

department of agriculture

as the largest industry in arkansas, the arkansas department of agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The department is organized into five divisions: forestry division, livestock and poultry division, natural resources division, plant industries division, and shared services division.

job series: skilled trades

the trades specialist performs skilled maintenance, repair, and upkeep of state-owned buildings, facilities, equipment, and grounds. This position is responsible for completing a variety of tasks, including plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, painting, and general repairs. The trades specialist ensures all work is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with state and federal regulations.

perform routine and preventive maintenance on state buildings, including inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing structural, mechanical, and electrical issues. Conduct minor plumbing repairs, such as fixing leaks, replacing fixtures, and clearing clogged drains. Install, repair, and maintain doors, windows, locks, and other structural components. Assist in maintaining hvac systems, including filter changes and routine troubleshooting. Conduct routine inspections to identify maintenance needs and report major issues to supervisors.

Operate a variety of hand and power tools, such as drills, saws, pressure washers, and paint sprayers. Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on state-owned maintenance equipment. Prepare surfaces and apply paint, stain, or other finishes to walls, ceilings, and furniture. Patch drywall, plaster, and other surfaces as needed to maintain building appearance.

knowledge of basic plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and hvac maintenance. Ability to use hand and power tools safely and effectively. Ability to assess maintenance issues and determine effective solutions. Understanding of maintenance schedules and best practices for keeping equipment and buildings in good working condition.

high school diploma or ged required. Additional vocational training in a skilled trade is preferred, plus at least one (1) year of experience in maintenance, repair, or a skilled trade.

• knowledge of herbicides and fertilizers
• knowledge and ability of seed stratification and assist with seed planting
• ability to load and unload trucks and operate forklifts
• ability to operate and maintain irrigation equipment
• supervise small work crews
• occasional exposure to hazardous chemicals may be required. Occasional heavy lifting may be required.

satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the office of personnel management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

no certifications required, but vocational training in maintenance or a skilled trade is preferred. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

the state of arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.