What are the responsibilities and job description for the Agriculture and Natural Resources Technician position at Pitkin County?
This is a seasonal position with progressive incentives for employees to return seasonally. We are proud to say that several of our seasonal field crew have been returning for many years. Benefits include:
Option of affordable medical/dental/vision coverage or a bi-weekly stipend
End of season and returning season bonuses
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays
Three day weekend - Monday through Thursday shifts, 7am - 5pm are preferred
This position works in close collaboration with the maintenance and natural resource field crews, connecting on a daily basis, sharing resources, etc.
**Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting in mid-March**
Conducts vegetation management, including manual and chemical control of noxious weeds, reseeding with native plants on Pitkin County open spaces.
Assists with property improvement projects on county open spaces including agricultural land. Projects may include fence repairs, irrigation system upgrades and maintenance, revegetation projects, and other similar fieldwork using a combination of manual and mechanical equipment and machinery.
Assists Agriculture leadership team with monitoring agricultural leases for compliance with lease terms, irrigation water use, and general land health. Documents site visits and communicates findings.
Assists Natural Resource leadership team with field implementation of ecological enhancement projects on county open spaces.
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 working in agricultural operations, landscaping, grounds maintenance, natural resource field work, vegetation management or related activities.
Heavy equipment experience preferred.
Previous experience working with GIS or mapping software preferred.
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Must possess a valid Colorado Driver's License and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record.
CPR and First aid certification required within the first year.
Pesticide application training completed within the first six months.
Level II (in addition to Level I):
1-3 years of experience working in agricultural operations, landscaping, grounds maintenance, natural resource field work, vegetation management or related activities.
Experience working independently and with supervision.
Previous experience working with public stakeholders or general customer service.
Basic knowledge of plant/noxious weed identification and/or experience with noxious weed control.
FAA Part 107 License required within six months.
Level III (in addition to Level II):
3 years of experience working on an agricultural operation, landscaping, grounds maintenance, natural resource field work, vegetation management or similar.
Proficiency in operating GPS/GNSS receivers and using GIS software to generate maps.
Thorough knowledge of plant/noxious weed ID and experience with invasive weed management techniques/practices.
Proficiency in operating and maintaining irrigation systems, irrigation ditches and/or common irrigation practices.
Proficiency in operating heavy equipment including tractors, truck and trailer, mini excavator and/or mini loader.
Proficiency in planning, flying and processing drone imagery for mapping purposes.
Chainsaw Certification preferred.
Knowledge Of:
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.
Skill In:
Organizing and prioritizing work to meet deadlines and accomplish tasks.
Handling multiple tasks simultaneously, under pressure, and in emergency and stressful situations.
Microsoft Office Products and Google Suite.
Communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
Operating tools and equipment safely.
Majority of work is performed outdoors with potential exposure to inclement weather conditions, hazardous chemicals and fumes, and potentially dangerous tools and equipment.
Regularly walks over uneven terrain. Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day.
Position requires hearing, speaking, 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.
Ability to lift, carry and move tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
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.
Salary : $22 - $38
