Job Title: Vector Control Technician I (VCT I) (Steps 1-3)   
Salary Range Monthly: $6633.53 – $7313.46
Job Title: Vector Control Technician II (VCT II) (Steps 4-6)   
Salary Range Monthly: $7679.14 – $8466.25
Job Title: Vector Control Inspector (VCI) (Step 7)   
Salary Monthly: $8889.56
Department: Operations
FLSA Employment Status: Non-Exempt

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Under the direct supervision of a Program Supervisor, performs inspections and control operations for all vector programs, provides assistance and support to other Vector Control personnel, and does related work and supportive services as required.  Essential functions include extensive driving throughout the county, traversing various terrains to conduct surveillance and inspections, the ability to transport and apply pesticides, effectively communicating with members of the public and other District personnel both verbally and in writing, the ability to efficiently plan and execute their daily workload with minimal supervision and exercise good judgement in assessing the appropriate treatments in various situations.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The VCTI/VCTII/VCI is responsible for tasks associated with Integrated Pest Management within the     county related to mosquito and vector control. Responsibilities include the application of comprehensive vector control measures with major emphasis on activities designed to inspect for and/or progressively reduce the vector population within an assigned area, and to assist the public with related vector problems. It is expected that all Vector Control personnel increase in skill and responsibility as they progress through the job titles/steps; the VCTI/VCTII/VCI needs to be, with training, proficient and capable in accomplishing duties in all District vector programs.

PRIMARY DUTIES

The VCTI/VCTII/VCI is responsible for all vector control programs within their assigned zone including:
Mosquito Operations: Conducts surveys of the assigned zone for mosquito breeding sources, such as ponds, creeks, catch basins, marshes, tree holes and irrigated pastures. Maintains records of flooding patterns and practices, and other factors conducive to mosquito breeding and of significance to timing of control operations. Inspects sources for mosquito breeding and collects samples for identification of species and stage of larval development, and notes other environmental factors such as drainage patterns, water related plants and biological control agents. Responds to service requests in an effort to identify and eliminate or suppress mosquito-breeding sources. Places and retrieves mosquito traps as needed in an effort to assess mosquito populations in designated areas. Advises the public regarding mosquito problems and the need for mosquito control, and source reduction. Applies treatments for temporary control when there is no other practical means of preventing mosquitoes from developing into the adult stage. Re-inspects treated areas to evaluate product and treatment efficacy; Safely tows ATVs or boats on trailers with trucks. Records data as directed and keeps accurate, legible records.

Rat and Mouse Operations: Responds to service requests for rodent prevention and control advice. Performs premises inspections, gives advice, and leaves literature. Conducts surveillance, baiting and trapping operations as  needed. Records data and keeps accurate and legible records of field activities. Is responsible for and coordinates the operations in the assigned zone. 

Rabies Risk Reduction Operations: Performs skunk inspections at the request of the public, giving advice   about rabies, skunks, delivers  traps, services traps, and, picks up and disposes of skunks. Records data as directed and keeps accurate, legible records. The VCTI/VCTII/VCI understands that there is a rabies risk and is advised to follow their physicians’ recommendations regarding the available rabies vaccine; either proof of vaccine or waiver may be required.

Yellowjacket and Honey Bee Operations: Responds to yellowjacket and bee service requests. Treats swarms or hives, utilizes specialized application equipment and dusters, and protective apparel. Follows District procedures for locating and treating nests.  Records data as directed and keeps accurate, legible records.  The VCTI/VCTII/VCI understands that there is a bee sting risk and is advised to follow their physicians’ recommendations if they are allergic to bee or wasp venom.

General Operations: Prepares and revises operational maps of zones and areas in the District, including properties, ponds, topographic characteristics, and other features relevant to mosquito and vector control operations. Records significant changes on maps and compiles data as directed on work done, types of service, and vector population history, and otherwise assists in collecting and compiling data. May be assigned on an as-needed basis to assist in

mechanical maintenance, repairs and fabrications; may be assigned to assist in maintenance and repair of buildings and grounds. Maintains skunk traps, rat and mouse traps, rat bait stations, and other equipment used in vector control. Keeps supervisors informed of progress and problems, and requests assistance as needed. Operates cell phones and other handheld devices to maintain contact with other employees. Is proficient with handheld devices and District provided software. Utilizes effective communication skills to inform and relate to the public about vector control and District policies and programs. Must present a professional appearance, wear the provided clean uniform neatly, and have good public relation skills. Possesses good problem solving and diagnostic skills. Actively works as a team member and communicates effectively. Works with and coordinates with other District departments assisting in fulfilling the District’s mission.  Reports on all activity in their assigned zone as requested.

Pesticide and Equipment: Calibrates spray equipment and safely measures, mixes, and applies pesticides in accordance with the label and District guidelines. Safely applies pesticides to effectively treat ground nesting yellowjacket nests, rats and mice, and other vectors as instructed. Drives automotive equipment, ATVs, and operates hand and power spraying equipment; keeps equipment in working order, performs simple maintenance and repairs.

Employee Development: Assists in the training of VCAs, in the field and classroom, and provides guidance, when necessary. Attends continuing education to maintain vector control certificates. Reads and studies literature pertaining to vector control, IPM and related topics.

Knowledge of the following is required to perform the essential function:

• Basic knowledge of map reading to locate work assignments. Math skills to accurately determine treatment areas and dosage requirements.

Ability to do the following is required to perform the essential functions:

• Ability to perform physical labor in widely varying environmental conditions, such as, routinely lifting 50-65 lbs.
• (animal traps, pesticides and equipment), bending/kneeling to place bait in storm drains/sewers, carrying two-gallon spray can, removing sewer/storm drain covers, and the ability to traverse various terrain (marshes, steep hills, and creek beds).  Ability to drive up to 85% of the workday.
• Ability to read labels and see mosquito larvae in a sampling device.

QUALIFYING TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

A combination of training and experience which demonstrates that a person has obtained the required knowledge and is able to perform the required work (with reasonable accommodation, if needed). Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination will be required. A person with the following combined training and experience would typically qualify to compete in a selection process:

A person with the following combined training and experience would typically qualify to compete in a selection process:

EDUCATION:          Graduation from high school or equivalent.

EXPERIENCE:        Work experience involving manual labor, and the use of machinery performing skilled or  semi-skilled operations. Must be able and willing to do heavy physical labor and withstand weather conditions associated with assigned areas.

REQUIRED LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, AND REGISTRATIONS

Must have a valid California driver’s license, with a good driving record and be insurable with the District’s Insurance Carrier, using the accepted guidelines of the insurance provider. Must obtain and maintain Vector Control Technician certifications issued by California Department of Public Health in Categories A, B, C and D within two years of employment.

Employment Conditions:

Fair Labor Standards Act Overtime: Non-exempt, receives overtime compensation
Appointment and Removal Authority: General Manager
Conditions of employment for all CCMVCD positions include successfully passing a Department of Justice LiveScan fingerprint check and completion of the Federal Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9, as well as a pre-employment physical.

Per Chapter 8, Division 4 of Title 1 of the California State Government Code, public employees are declared to be "Disaster Service Workers." As such, District employees may be called upon to support the activities of the District during an emergency situation.
Applicants requesting reasonable accommodation during any phase of the examination process are instructed to contact the Human Resources and Administration Manager at (925)771-6103.

A complete Employment Application must be submitted to be considered for this position.