Space Technician

Job Description

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.

• Review and evaluate the City’s Open Space and riparian network for flood control threats, then prioritize locations for remediation.
• Survey the Open Space trails and WUI (Wildland Urban Interface) and record fire fuel threats or potential hazards that need to be addressed.
• Implement clearing debris from the Open Space and WUI using hand tools and power tools.
• Coordinate equipment and resources needed to reduce fire fuel hazards.
• Conduct 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.
• Maintain records and logs of daily activities related to duties performed and equipment used.
• Perform 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.

• Creek hydrology and hydraulics; understanding of how a creek moves, flows, and how to predict where energy from flowing water may 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.

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

High school diploma or G.E.D.;

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.

• 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.

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.

• Pre-employment Physical

This is a temporary position, with no benefits.