Spray and Fertilizer Technician

CLASSIFICATION PURPOSE

This non-exempt position performs a variety of skilled tasks related to the application of lawn, plant, shrub, and turf fertilization, and insect and disease control programs that comply with quality control and safety measures; performs related work as required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The examples of functions listed in this job description are representative, but not necessarily exhaustive, of any one position in this job classification. Management may assign other functions not listed herein at its sole discretion.

 *Berns will train the right candidate and assist them in acquiring proper licensing

· Performs the safe, efficient, and legal application of job-related chemicals (e.g., fertilizer, pesticide, herbicide);

· evaluates job sites for pests, insects, weeds, and diseased vegetation (e.g., lawns, perennials, shrubs, trees);

· mixes, fills tanks, loads, delivers, applies, and stores chemicals properly;

· demonstrates a professional understanding of all chemicals, fertilizers and controlled substances and their ability to remedy horticulture problems;

· documents and retains pesticide application use records for all inspections, treatments, and monitoring in compliance with local, state, and federal law;

· handles and transports chemicals (e.g., fertilizers, containers, SDS) properly;

· maintains essential records and adheres to state posting requirements for pesticides;

· provides fertilization, weed, pest, and fungi controls on client properties;

· performs all functions of the Integrated Pest Management Program;

· uses tankers, spray pumps, and injection tools properly and safely;

· demonstrates proper scheduling, and record keeping functions;

· performs appropriate mixing and spraying fungicides, insecticides and herbicides;

· demonstrates proper tree and shrub identification;

· monitors, diagnoses, and treats insect, disease, and environmental conditions;

· evaluates and recommends treatment options;

· learns and understands insects and disease life cycles;

· performs accurate and timely record-keeping;

· ensures proper containers, labels, PPE, and chemical application equipment;

· conducts all activities in a manner that are consistent with company standards and all legal codes;

· attends safety meetings;

· reads and follows written product labels, mixes, measures, loads, and applies products at the jobsite;

· completes administrative forms (e.g., time entry, equipment inspections, chemical use reports);

· understands, follows, and enforces all safety and other company policies and procedures;

· monitors pest control and fertilizing methods after application and communicates progress to customers;

· drives, uses, maintains, and properly operates truck and sprayer equipment;

· tracks and documents time spent on each project to ensure completion under the man-hours estimate;

· loads and unloads equipment and tools into a truck or trailer;

· actively contributes to achieving performance goals (e.g., job quality, safety, customer service);

· complies with all company policies and safety procedures;

· finishes the work efficiently thereby improving gross margin;

· ensures all job responsibilities are performed in accordance with company protocol;

· provides excellent service (e.g., accurate, complete, and timely) to clients, work-site partners, and Company staff in a courteous and efficient manner.

COMPETENCIES
· Safety: Performs all job functions safely; complies with all safety policies, procedures, and standards (e.g., PPE, proper lifting, wears seat belt when in a vehicle or equipment); reports all safety-related incidents to supervisor immediately; attends all safety meetings.
· Results Oriented: Maintains focus on outcomes; is proactive and goal oriented; concentrates on meeting objectives, delivering to the required time, cost and quality; holds performance as more important than process; completes tasks as defined by production rates.
· Hazard Communication: Follows all chemical procedures (e.g., storing, applying, transporting), SDS information, and label instructions; complies with emergency reporting procedures; can define and identify hazardous substances.
· Equipment Operation: Operates various types of chemical application equipment (e.g., backpack sprayer, lawn spray skid, shrub gun, spray pumps, injection tools) properly and safely.
· Job Quality: Understands the relationship between job quality and customer service, satisfaction, and retention; ensures landscape and horticulture quality standards are met for every job.
· Customer Service: Consistently exceeds customer expectations; keeps customers well-informed, listens to them attentively, and addresses their concerns; enacts a personal approach to customer service.
· Interpersonal Skills: Treats others with respect, collaboration, and support in such a way that work relationships are improved and morale is increased; is approachable; has effective communication skills.

  EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

*Berns will train the right candidate and assist them in acquiring proper licensing (Michigan Applicators license 3A, 3B, and 6)

General landscape experience required. One (1) year of professional experience diagnosing and treating plant issues and diseases preferred.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The physical characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions required by this job classification. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable an individual with qualified disabilities to perform the functions of this job classification, on a case-by-case basis.

Frequently stand, walk, or crouch on narrow and/or slippery surfaces; stoop, kneel, bend to pick up or move objects; walk for long distances and on sloped ground and uneven surfaces; move, lift, and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds; normal manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination; corrected hearing and vision to normal range.

SPECIAL NOTES, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Pre-employment: Incumbents must sign the Confidentiality, Non-disclosure, and Non-solicitation Agreement prior to their first day on the job.

License: A valid chauffer license, which must be maintained throughout employment in this job classification, is required at the time of appointment.

Certifications: Berns will assist you in obtaining a state of Michigan Applicators license 3A, 3B, and 6 if not already obtained.

Working Conditions: Work is conducted outdoors, exposed to varying temperatures, weather conditions, and noise levels; exposure to dust, pesticides, herbicides, grease, oils, dust, fumes, and electrical currents.

Background Investigation: Incumbents must have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness. Misdemeanor and/or felony convictions may be disqualifying depending on type, number, severity, and recency. Prior to appointment, candidates may be subject to a background investigation and/or drug test.

Introductory Period: Incumbents appointed to this job classification serve an introductory period of three months.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

The Key Performance Indicators for this position will be specified at the time of appointment.