Sr Plant Health Care & Integrated Pest Management Technician

Job Description

Responsible for overseeing the ODU Division of Grounds & Landscapes Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Plant Heath Care (PHC), and Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) programs in accordance with State and University policies.

This position will : Ensure that all processes and procedures meet and or exceed all regulatory requirements and that they are conducted in a safe and effective manner.

Manage and maintain all affiliated records. Perform pesticide, fertilizer, and various other PHC applications in a safe and effective manner.

Provide training and oversight for grounds staff in becoming qualified spray technicians and / or Certified Pesticide Applicators.

Provide planning and direction to others in performing a variety of maintenance work to include spraying pesticides, as those services pertain to IPM / PHC / NMP.

Assist in the procurement, maintenance and repair of related equipment. Purchase related products and maintain storage and inventory for all IPM / PHC / NMP related products & materials.

Maintains and keep on file all SDS sheets and labels pertaining to pesticides. Remain current of knowledge, technology, and skills as they pertain to the position.

Maintain a valid Virginia Driver’s License and VA compliant fertilizer and pesticide licenses. Position is designated as essential personnel for campus emergencies and special activities.

Type of Recruitment Knowledge, skills and abilities Considerable knowledge of pesticide application and equipment. Considerable knowledge of the characteristics of soil health practices, regional plant diseases, weeds, and insects with knowledge of management planning for their control.

Considerable knowledge of available pesticides and control techniques this includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods;

county, State and Federal regulations governing the use of pesticides and fertilizers. Considerable knowledge of the environmental impact of pesticides and fertilizers.

Ability to maintain accurate records and submit reports. Some knowledge of the principles and practices of effective employee supervision and training.

Some knowledge of prioritizing multiple tasks and working within deadlines to complete projects and assignments. Effective skills in following and effectively communicating verbal and written instructions.

Basic computer skills with programs for the purposes of data input and retrieval. Demonstrated ability to work in extreme heat or cold.

Demonstrated ability to lift / move / carry 50 pounds many times per week. Demonstrated ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level appropriate to the duties of the position.

Demonstrated ability to work independently or with others. Special licenses, registration or certification Valid Driver’s License and insurable driving record.

Certified Pesticide Application licenses in Category 3A Ornamental & 3B Turf. Or must gain (if not already possessed) a valid Virginia Certified Fertilizer Applicator’s License within 1 year of employment.

Education or training Considerable training and education with IPM & PHC service provision and techniques as related to Turf & Ornamental landscape maintenance.

Considerable training and education with various grounds & landscape equipment operation. Basic computer training with programs for the purposes of data input and retrieval.

Level and type of experience Considerable experience in the care and maintenance of landscaped areas or general grounds, several years of which shall have been in specialized pest and / or pesticide spray control work and fertilizer application.

Considerable experience in the operation of grounds and landscape equipment. Additional Considerations (supplemental knowledge, skills, abilities, education, experience, licensure, certification) VDACS certification in either / all Category 5A, 6, or 8.

VA Certified Fertilizer Applicator LicenseChesapeake Bay Landscape Professional Certification Level 1 or 2. ISA Certified ArboristAcademic degree or certificate in landscape design / maintenance, forestry, botany, ecology or other related field.

High school diploma or GED equivalent. Conditions of Employment Facilities Management employees are considered essential personnel and subject to working during university closings.

This is an open until filled recruitment. This recruitment may close after the five-day required posting period when a suitable pool of applicants has been generated.

Annual Salary / Hourly Rate Salary commensurate with education and experience