Vegetative Maintenance Technician at University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma

Job Description:

The Oklahoma Mesonet is seeking a Vegetative Maintenance Technician to join our field group team. The Oklahoma Mesonet collects and disseminates weather data from 170+ automated weather stations across the state. Located in the National Weather Center, the Mesonet Field group manages the physical operations of the sensing sites and the Vegetative Maintenance Technician is responsible for controlling the relative vegetative growth within the site perimeter to ensure and maintain meteorological standards. Technician documents maintenance activities through digital photos and a computer interface. Extended periods of driving to and between remote sites and overnight stays are often required.

Essential Duties:

• Oversees and participates in the daily operations of landscape functions


• Plans daily and weekly schedules for routine landscape maintenance


• Oversees and participates in grounds maintenance tasks such as planting, cultivating, fertilizing, mulching, trimming, weeding, irrigating, and pruning.


• Uses portable sprayer to apply herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides.


• Oversees and participates in the edging of turf around flower, shrub, and ground cover beds and along sidewalks.


• Ensures safety of all personnel and proper operation and security of landscape and gardening equipment.


• Exhibits a high degree of skill with regard to horticultural activities


• Exercises some discretion, ingenuity, and independent judgment


• Performs related duties as needed to successfully fulfill the functions of the position. 

Required Education:

• None

Required Experience:

• 12 months landscape and grounds experience

Skills:

• Basic math skills


• Ability to accurately read and understand written materials and instructions


• Uses tools or equipment in a manner requiring competence


• Communicates as required to exchange information and give simple instructions


• Performs simple record-keeping operations


• Ability to lead and train other employees

Certifications:

• Valid Oklahoma Driver's License in order to drive University vehicles or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire date

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Exposure to physically demanding tasks such as heavy lifting of 100 pounds or more


• Extended periods of driving


• Exposure to extreme temperature changes


• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions including in the heat and cold


• Frequent exposure to chemicals and other hazardous materials 


• May be designated as an essential position during emergency closures 

Departmental Preferences:

• Mechanical aptitude


• Oklahoma certification in pesticide applications preferred 

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.

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