Columbus Day News

OPS AGRICULTURAL TECHNICIAN II Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Florida Forest Service OPEN COMPETITIVE CONTACT: Holly Hughes, (352) 732-1727 FOR BENEFITS INFORMATION, VISIT HERE. ANTICIPATED STARTING SALARY: $16.00 per hour PENDING BUDGET APPROVAL DUTIES: This is a highly responsible position performing technical work in support of forestry operations. The incumbent is responsible for: Assisting professional foresters in the application of forest management practices for private landowners and on state forests. Assisting in the preparation of management plans for private landowners. Assisting in timber marking, timber cruising, and timber sale establishment. This may involve the use of technical forestry knowledge, aerial photographs, topographic maps, compass, global positioning system (GPS) and related equipment. Assisting in prescribed burning and wildfire suppression activities, including fire line construction, holding, and mop-up. Operating and maintaining tractors and other heavy equipment in support of forest management or wildfire suppression activities. Assisting with forest inventory and monitoring activities. Assisting with the maintenance of state forest facilities and equipment. Assisting with the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for water quality. Working with other agencies and organizations to promote forestry and natural resource management. Assisting with the collection of forest health data. Assisting with forest education and outreach activities. Responding to public inquiries regarding forestry and natural resource management. Assisting with the enforcement of forestry laws and regulations. Maintaining assigned equipment and state vehicles in a serviceable condition. Performs other related duties as required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of basic forestry principles and practices; Skill in the use of hand tools and power equipment; Ability to perform physical labor outdoors in adverse weather conditions; Ability to follow written and oral instructions; Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Ability to work independently; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: A high school diploma or its equivalent and three (3) years of experience in forestry or a related field; or any equivalent combination of experience or training. Possession of a valid driver license. Must obtain S-130/S-190 Wildland Firefighter Training and maintain currency. Must obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR certification. Must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 6 months of employment. SPECIAL NOTES: Successful applicant must pass a background screening, including fingerprinting, as a condition of employment. THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES VALUES AND SUPPORTS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Applicants claiming preference for employment veteran’s preference, or claiming an eligible family member must attach documentation as described in the instructions at the bottom of the application for consideration. All documentation is due by the closing date of the vacancy. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. NOTE: The salary range listed is the range at the time of posting. Pay bands are updated annually.