Job Title: Sprayer/Operator Department: Weed and Mosquito DistrictType: (6) Seasonal Accountable To: Field SupervisorWage: $16.36/hr (non-certified); $16.87/hr (certified); $17.92/hr (cross-trained) Job Overview: Performs labor and technical duties in noxious weed and mosquito control efforts. This is a seasonal position. Operates and maintains pesticide application equipment on a daily basis. May be responsible for minor equipment, building and ground maintenance. This position performs semi-skilled labor duties in the operation and maintenance of spraying equipment. Employees work with pesticides, which if applied incorrectly could harm employees, the environment, and the public. Must be aware of public safety in the use of chemicals and with equipment on highways. Hazards include driving difficult terrain, occasional encounters with ticks, stinging insects, poisonous snakes, poisonous plants, and working with chemicals requiring adherence to safety practices and procedures. Position works outdoors, early morning and late evening hours, and may require strenuous physical activity. Applicant must be able to tolerate heat and mosquitoes. Position requires diplomacy in dealing with the public. Essential Functions (Major Duties or Responsibilities): Position requires ability to communicate verbally and in writing; apply rules and regulations; exercise sound judgment; calibrate equipment; repair and do light maintenance of equipment; walk long distances on uneven ground while carrying equipment; climb over fences; read and understand maps; mix and apply chemicals; lift heavy containers weighing up to 100 pounds; use hand tools; visually inspect sites; maintain detailed records; operate equipment; operate a pick-up truck.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge: This position requires a basic knowledge of principles and practices of pest control including chemicals, equipment, local plants and noxious weeds, county roads and property, and Weed and Mosquito District policies. Safety and pesticide knowledge are required.Skills: This position requires skills in identifying and spraying weeds, identifying mosquito larval stages, map reading and making significant mathematical computations.Abilities: This position requires the ability to: drive a one ton truck with clutch; learn to identify noxious weeds; work independently; follow safety procedures; be aware of changing weather/wind conditions; work outdoors in heat; walk long distances while carrying heavy equipment; operate specialized equipment; exercise sound judgment; communicate effectively orally and in writing; follow verbal and written instructions; establish effective working relationships with fellow employees, supervisors and the public. Must be able to physically walk on inclines up to eight hours per day.Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience): The above knowledge, skills and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to:--A high school diploma/equivalent.--Additional classes or experience with agriculture and chemicals preferred.--Must possess a valid driver’s license.ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:--Applicant must be 18 years or older to apply.--All applicants must study three manuals:1. Basic Pesticide Training Manual2. Mosquito Abatement Training Manual3. Weed Training ManualThe Montana Department of Agriculture will administer the test and all applicants must pass with an 80% or better score on the Basic Pesticide test, Weed test, and Mosquito Abatement test. (Check for date of test). Following successful completion of the Department of Agriculture tests, the Weed District will give a weed ID test, map test, and a pesticide label test which must be successfully passed with score as determined by District.The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. Other duties may be needed or assigned.