Aquatic Pest Control, Department of Boating and Waterways Series

California State Personnel Board Specification

Series established October 18, 1994

Scope

This series specification describes the Aquatic Pest Control classes used in the Department of Boating and Waterways.

Definition of Series

The object of aquatic pest control programs is to reduce the impact of such pests as the water hyacinth plant and other invasive pest plants on the environment including navigational, recreational, and agricultural uses in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and its tributaries. Responsibilities of these programs include the implementation of an aquatic weed control program utilizing mechanical, biological, and chemical measures to eliminate the threat imposed by the water hyacinth plant, Egeria densa, and any other pests that may be legislatively mandated.

This series specification includes a preprofessional training position; a specialist/team leader; an assistant program manager; and a program manager description.

Definition of Levels

Aquatic Pest Control Technician, Department of Boating and Waterways

This is the entry level in which incumbents will work under close supervision performing routine tasks while receiving training in aquatic pest control work. Incumbents are expected to demonstrate rapid progress through approved on-the-job training. Training will be designed to allow the employee to assume progressively more responsible and independent work as progression through the alternate ranges occurs.

A technician works as a subordinate spray or other aquatic pest control team member for a specialist. For example, at the direction of a specialist, the technician, while working in a spray boat, will handle the spray hose while the specialist drives the boat and directs the spray operation.

Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, Department of Boating and Waterways

As a journeyperson, under general supervision, this is a project team leader. Under direction of the Aquatic Pest Control Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways, and/or an assistant program manager, performs as a team leader; is responsible for all phases of pest control in a defined area of responsibility; performs operational fieldwork in a wide variety of aquatic pest control and regulatory activities; is responsible for all field aspects of an aquatic pest control team, including planning, training, coordinating, and functioning as the team leader of a crew usually consisting of the specialist and a technician within prescribed limits; while performing field pest control activities, draws conclusions and takes independent action or makes independent recommendations from technical data based on site observations and program guidelines.

The specialist is responsible for safe boat operation, water safety, and protecting the public and environment while conducting spray operations. The specialist is responsible for training the technician team member and directing and providing guidance to the technician in the performance of his/her duties and responsibilities. The specialist is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of equipment including boats, spray gear, automotive, and other transport equipment. The specialist performs and directs the technician in all of these activities, including making minor repairs and adjustments to all equipment.

Aquatic Pest Control Assistant Program Manager, Department of Boating and

Waterways

This is a full supervisory level, responsible for assisting an Aquatic Pest Control Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways, in the management of one or more aquatic pest control programs such as the water hyacinth or the Egeria densa programs. Control programs such as these are generally performed by teams consisting of a specialist and a technician. The teams each are assigned responsibility for an area or section of the afflicted waterway. The teams, under the direction of the program manager and/or an assistant program manager, carry out approved and defined methods of control and/or eradication. These multiple teams report daily to either manager in regard to their daily activities including area covered, pesticides or other control methods used, and findings of pest activity and location. An assistant program manager typically has several teams under direct supervision. In addition to the review and consideration of the various team reports, an assistant program manager will frequently and personally observe teams at work. Teams' areas of responsibility will be observed and the effectiveness of each team will be evaluated. The assistant program manager will also observe and evaluate each team's ability to deal effectively with the general public using the waterways. The assistant program manager will provide direction to the teams and arrange for any necessary training to improve the teams' performance and for individual team members in any areas of need or deficiency.

Aquatic Pest Control Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways

This level is responsible for managing one or more aquatic pest control programs. As program manager, an incumbent is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing subordinates in aquatic pest control activities, including development of an annual plan of operation, developing new aquatic pest detection, and control and exclusion methods; developing, planning, and conducting training for departmental personnel; and provides guidance relating to the areas of technical aquatic biology methodology and evaluation to both staff and departmental management.

An incumbent in a field position has overall responsibility for coordinating and administering the Department's aquatic pest control activities in an assigned program and/or geographic area. A field program manager is responsible for developing an annual plan for managing the control of the pest control programs for which they are responsible. This plan is submitted to the various county agricultural commissioners for approval and necessary permits. A program manager is responsible for identifying alternative means of controlling aquatic pests in the program area or areas that they have been assigned; directs staff in performance of the selected alternative approach, evaluates on an ongoing basis the program effectiveness, including staff performance, and recommends and implements any changes or modifications necessary to enhance program success; is responsible for planning the operational aspects of the assigned control or program(s) including obtaining necessary local government cooperation and approvals; maintains ongoing liaison with local government officials regarding status and effectiveness of the program; develops the overall work plan and timetable for the assigned program(s), including general assignments of program staff that includes the Assistant Program Manager; and responds to and deals with public concerns to program operations.

An incumbent manages headquarter's staff in support of field personnel performing pest control activities. This support function includes development of policies and procedures relating to pest control programs; administering the legally mandated environmental impact notifications and filings; serving as liaison for the programs to other State, Federal, and private organizations interested in or affected by the Department's pest control programs; managing contract aquatic weed abatement programs; and developing and modifying as necessary existing pest detection control and exclusion methods.

Minimum Qualifications

Aquatic Pest Control Technician, Department of Boating and Waterways

Either I

The equivalent of one year of experience in the Department of Boating and Waterways performing the duties in a class with a level of responsibility equivalent to that of an Office Assistant (General).

Or II

Equivalent to six months of experience performing pest eradication or control work.

Or III

Completion of the equivalent of 60 semester hours of college preferably including some biology curriculum that includes plant biology.

Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, Department of Boating and Waterways

Either I

One year of experience in the California state service performing the duties of an Aquatic Pest Control Technician, Department of Boating and Waterways, Range C.

Or II

Three years of field experience performing pest control duties, preferably in an aquatic setting. and

Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate, Category F or G.

Aquatic Pest Control Assistant Program Manager, Department of Boating and

Waterways

Either I

Two years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of an Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, Department of Boating and Waterways, at least one year of this experience must have been performing the duties of an Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, Department of Boating and Waterways, Range B. and

Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate, Category F.

Or II

Four years of field experience performing pest control duties, including one year of experience assisting in the supervision and training of subordinate employees or team members. This experience preferably will include aquatic pest control responsibilities. and

Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate, Category F. (Applicants who do not possess the certificate will be admitted to the examination but must secure the certificate prior to appointment.)

Aquatic Pest Control Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways

Possession of a Department of Pesticide Regulations' Pest Control Advisor's license. Applicants who do not possess the license will be admitted to the examination but must secure the license prior to appointment. and Either I One year of experience in the California state service performing the duties of an Aquatic Pest Control Assistant Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways. and

Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate, Category F.

Or II

Three years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of an Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, Department of Boating and Waterways, Range B. and

Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate, Category F.

Or III

Five years of experience in the pest control field which includes responsibility for supervising the work of others performing pest control activities. Experience that includes aquatic pest control is preferred. and

Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate, Category F. (Applicants who do not possess the certificate will be admitted to the examination but must secure the certificate prior to appointment.

Knowledge and Abilities

Aquatic Pest Control Technician, Department of Boating and Waterways

Knowledge of: Basic arithmetic, spelling, and grammar; basic boat engine maintenance; boating safety; general methods of pest control fieldwork such as survey and treatment.

Ability to: Communicate effectively; follow instructions; communicate effectively with other staff, cooperating agencies, private industry, and the public; accept and benefit from training; have an aptitude for operating, maintaining, and repairing mechanical equipment, including motors.

Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, Department of Boating and Waterways

Knowledge of: Current methods, terminology, materials, and equipment used in the survey, control, or eradication of aquatic pests; basic boat engine maintenance, pesticide regulations, safety techniques, and requirements; applicable sections of the Food and Agriculture Code; aquatic pests involved in current control and eradication projects within the State.

Ability to: Communicate effectively; service and maintain pest control equipment; make or direct emergency repairs to equipment in the field; lead a field crew; keep time records; prepare field operation reports; carry out instructions; carry out varied tasks in biological fieldwork; work effectively with county, Federal, and industry personnel and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of business; exercise leadership; act independently; work with minimal supervision; have an aptitude for operating, maintaining, and repairing mechanical equipment, including motors.

Aquatic Pest Control Assistant Program Manager, Department of Boating and

Waterways

Knowledge of: General botany, botanical classification, and identification; aquatic pest control methods; materials and equipment; boats, boating operation, and maintenance; California waterways; principles of water and boating safety; general chemistry and biology; principles of personnel management and supervision; a supervisor's responsibility for promoting equal opportunity in hiring and employee development and promotion, and for maintaining a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Ability to: Plan, organize, and coordinate the work of assigned teams of staff; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; make and report reliable observation on loss caused by aquatic pests; perform special studies of aquatic biology problems; evaluate results of program efforts, interpret findings, and make recommendations; interpret and apply the laws and regulations related to the Department of Boating and Waterways; communicate effectively; prepare reports and keep accurate program records; evaluate staff and take necessary action to improve or enhance performance or correct behavior; utilize and effectively apply job-required skills and knowledge; plan, organize, and direct the work of others in aquatic pest control programs and activities; effectively promote equal opportunity in employment and maintain a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Aquatic Pest Control Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways

Knowledge of: General botany, botanical classification, and identification; aquatic pest control methods, materials, and equipment; chemistry and mode of action of chemical toxicants used in aquatic pest control; literature sources relating to aquatic plant pests; boats, boating operation, and maintenance; California waterways; principles of water and boating safety; principles of public administration, including personnel management and supervision; a supervisor's responsibility for promoting equal opportunity in hiring and employee development and promotion, and for maintaining a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Ability to: Plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments with staff; evaluate staff and take necessary action to enhance performance or correct behavior; establish and maintain effective working relationships with State, county agencies, and those contacted during the course of work; make reliable field observations on loss caused by aquatic pests; make special studies of aquatic biology problems; evaluate results, interpret findings, and make control recommendations; interpret and apply the laws and regulations related to programs of the Department of Boating and Waterways; communicate effectively; prepare reports and accurate program records; utilize and apply effectively required job skills and knowledge; plan, organize, and direct the work of others in aquatic pest control projects; coordinate a departmental program; participate in the formulation of policies and administrative regulations and in program development and evaluation; deliver public addresses; effectively promote equal opportunity in employment and maintain a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Desirable Qualifications

Aquatic Pest Control Assistant Program Manager, Department of Boating and

Waterways

Degree in biology and the ability to obtain a Pest Control Advisor's license.

Aquatic Pest Control Program Manager, Department of Boating and Waterways

Degree in biology.

Special Personal Characteristics

All Levels:

Willingness to travel to assigned areas and to work unusual hours during spraying season; willingness to work with chemicals, materials, and pesticides used in the program; tact; poise; dependability; and punctuality.

Special Physical Characteristics

All Levels:

Ability to work in temperature extremes; vision and color vision adequate to successfully perform the duties of the position; and ability to handle a variety of heavy equipment and materials in the course of work.

Driver License Requirement

All Levels:

Applicants for positions in this classification series must possess a valid driver license of the appropriate class issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles; a good driving record, and are expected to drive vehicles safely. Applicants who do not possess the license will be admitted to the examination but must secure the license prior to appointment.

Class History