Job Summary
Entry level of the journeyman series in the pest control trade. The employees in this class are responsible for performing structural pest control and extermination work for the School District of Philadelphia. Work involves routinely inspecting facilities, accurately identifying pests, monitoring and evaluating conditions and determining the most appropriate strategy for pest control from a variety of chemical and non-chemical methods. Work additionally involves utilizing effective and environmentally safe approaches to pest management and eradication by implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) concepts and techniques. Duties increase in scope and complexity as the employee gains familiarity with the work environment. Work assignments may require that employees work overtime or weekends.
Essential Functions
• Inspects School District facilities on a regular basis and in response to requests for emergency service; locates problem areas and identifies pest species by observing nests, harborage sites, fecal spots and droppings; evaluates structural environment and usage to determine appropriate treatment methods.
• Monitors area to determine the degree of pest infestation; surveys immediate area to ascertain conditions which may influence or encourage infestation problems; if necessary, makes recommendations to building occupants regarding changes in habits which may assist in the elimination or control of pests.
• Implements an IPM program within the assigned region; utilizes IPM principles to effectively and safely manage or eradicate pest problems.
• Cleans and disinfects pest harborage areas; uses caulk to seal cracks and crevices where pests may habitat; lays traps, repellant or poisonous bait at selected sites; locates entry-points and creates exclusions within and outside of the building structure by obstructing openings.
• Selects pesticides based on type of pest and the site; mixes pesticides in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions; observes safety precautions in handling and applying chemical treatments; complies with public health regulations governing the use of pesticides; frequently checks hypersensitivity list to insure that proper precautions are followed with regard to notifying chemic-sensitive individuals of pesticide application.
• Prepares records of work performed, including names of pesticides dispensed, percent of concentration of solution applied and place of application.
• Cleans and maintains equipment; keeps records of supplies used and requisitions supplies as needed.
• Removes dead or live animals from School District property; properly disposes of animal remains in accordance with safety regulations.Minimum Requirements
• Education equivalent to the completion of the twelfth school grade.
• Three years of experience learning and performing pest control work.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Considerable knowledge of the methods, practices, materials and equipment used in the control of rodents and insects.
• Considerable knowledge of the chemical substances used in pest extermination.
• Considerable knowledge of the uses, dangers and safety precautions necessary in handling, storing and transporting rodenticides and insecticides.
• Knowledge of the theories, principles and practices of Integrated Pest Management.
• Skill in operating a variety of equipment associated with the trade.
• Ability to inspect premises and structural foundations to determine the existence and identity of pests.
• Ability to work on rooftops as well as from extension ladders and cherry pickers at heights up to fifty feet.
• Ability to read product labels and follow manufacturer's instructions accordingly.
• Ability to exercise extreme caution in the use of toxic substances.
• Ability to work while wearing protective clothing.
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports of completed assignments.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.