Technician II - Vegetation Management

Position Overview

This position is responsible for the vegetation management in GRDA’s power line easements, substation, microwave sites, and a variety of properties owned and maintained by GRDA.

Major Work Duties

Employees are required to perform at full performance level. Some duties include: Application of herbicides to vegetation in compliance with state and federal regulations; maintains records concerning types, quantities, locations and dates that chemicals are used to control the growth of vegetation. Operates side trimmers, hydro-ax, skid steers, 4-wheel drive tractors with brush hog, chain saws and other tools and equipment to cut and trim trees, brush and other vegetation along right-of-ways; mows dikes and dams; works in locations with difficult accessibility such as fence rows, creek banks or densely populated or wooded areas. Various right of way restoration responsibilities.

Essential job functions include, but are not limited to:

• Applies herbicides to vegetation in compliance with state and federal regulations; maintains records concerning types, quantities, locations and dates that chemicals are used to control the growth of vegetation.
• Operates side trimmers, hydro-ax, skid steers, 4-wheel drive tractors with brush hog, chain saws and other tools and equipment to cut and trim trees, brush and other vegetation along right-of-ways; mows dikes and dams; works in locations with difficult accessibility such as fence rows, creek banks or densely populated or wooded areas.
• Right of way restoration responsibilities such as: repairing ruts, reclaiming property damages, reseeding, fence building, gate installation, etc.
• Follow Federal, State and Local laws concerning EPA and other regulations including but not limited herbicide application and disposal. Attend all seminars, classes, and training sessions to maintain licenses that are required.
• Operate heavy trucks or other equipment used in construction, repair, and maintenance of high voltage transmission lines.
• Removal of log jams and debris on Scenic Rivers.
• Mowing and herbicide application on substation and microwave sites.
• Operate dozers and various excavation equipment to provide access to easements.
• Coordinate with other crafts on logistics and assigned projects.
• Secure equipment and materials needed to complete a project and check it out through the warehouse using the correct project codes.
• Help to make sure all projects tasks are performed in the safest manner in accordance with GRDA, APPA and other governing bodies’ rules and regulations.

Skills, Knowledge, Qualities:

• Must have basic entry level skills and knowledge of the operation of various types of heavy equipment and vehicles including, but not limited to, tractors, skid steers, backhoes, dozers, and other equipment utilized in vegetation management.
• Must have basic entry level skills and knowledge of various hand tools including, but not limited to, chain saws, pole saws, hand sprayers, and other tools utilized in vegetation management.
• Must have basic knowledge of equipment maintenance.
• Must be punctual.
• Must be able to work alongside multiple people in various situations.

Education, Training, Experience:

• High school diploma
• Two years’ experience in the craft to which assigned, specifically tree trimming from an aerial bucket truck.

Certificates, Registrations, Licenses:

• Valid Oklahoma Class A commercial driver’s license, or the ability to convert within 30 days for those with an out of state driver’s license that are an Oklahoma resident.
• Certified Herbicide Applicator’s License (category 6), required

Physical/Mental Requirements & Working Conditions:

• Must be capable of working in all weather conditions, including but not limited to rain, extreme heat, mud, rivers, lake shore, etc.
• Must have the ability to sit, bend, stoop, lift and carry at least 50 pounds.
• Applicants must be willing to travel for overnight stay to perform necessary tasks, on occasion, as needed.

Other information:

• Position is located at the Transmission and Distribution Headquarters in Pryor, OK
• Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Highly competitive benefits package