CONSERVATION LABORER - NATURAL RESOURCES

Illustrative Examples of Duties:

1. Assists full-time staff with a variety of manual labor tasks required to maintain a county park system.
2. Assists in the application of chemicals; assists with prescribing fire, invasive species control, prairie seed harvest and processing, and timber stand improvement duties.
3. Participates in the care of trees, shrubs, and other plants. Clears brush, and removes invasive species.
4. Assists with minor equipment repair and maintenance
5. .Maintains and operates equipment such as hand tools, power tools, pick-ups, sprayers, tractors, utility vehicles, gators, mowers, and pressure washers.
6. Assists in the maintenance of trails.
7. Completes forms as necessary.
8. Performs related duties as assigned.  

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• General knowledge of the techniques and methods used in tree maintenance, care and removal.
• Knowledge in the care and planting of nursery stock. 
• Knowledge and use of hand and power tools in performing manual labor tasks.
• Knowledge in the mixing and application of herbicides is preferred. 
• Knowledge of the principles of prescribed fire is preferred. 
• Knowledge of the principles of native prairie, woodland, and wetland management is preferred. 
• Skill in the safe use and maintenance of outdoor power equipment (mowers, trimmers, sprayers, chainsaws, brush cutters, etc.) 
• Ability to perform manual labor tasks in all types of weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with other County employees and the general public using courtesy, patience, and tact.
• Ability to walk and stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to walk on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to back equipment with a trailer attached. 

Special Requirements:

• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position.
• A criminal background check is required.
• A drug screen is required.
• A valid State of Iowa driver’s license is required.