Open Space Technician

Highlands Ranch•Highlands Ranch, CO

About The Position

The Highlands Ranch Metro District is accepting applications for a full-time Open Space Technician for the Parks, Recreation and Open Space department. This technician performs a variety of unskilled and skilled tasks in the maintenance and operations of district’s natural areas. We strongly encourage candidates that are hard-working, prompt, responsible, able to work independently and with a team, and have a willingness to learn, to apply for this position. Check out our amazing full-time employee benefits in the About Us section below the job description or view the attachment. Pay is commensurate with experience.

Requirements

Associates degree in Natural Resource Management or related field.
Two years’ experience in open space/natural resource management.
A combination of education and experience will be considered.
CPR/First Aid certification within the first 12 months of employment.
Rangeland and Right of Ways herbicide applicators license from the Colorado Department of Agriculture within the first 12 months of employment.
Must hold a valid driver’s license and maintain a satisfactory driving record.
Associates degree in Natural Resource Management or related field
Three years’ experience in open space/natural resource management.
A combination of equivalent education and experience.
CPR/First Aid certification.
Rangeland and Right of Ways herbicide applicators license from the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
Must hold a valid driver’s license and maintain a satisfactory driving record.
Ability to perform the essential duties listed above.
Skilled in operating the listed tools and equipment, demonstrating a strong understanding of their functionality and maintenance requirements.
Working knowledge of equipment, materials and supplies applicable to open space management. Skill in using hand and power tools and equipment safely and effectively.
Physically able to move about on work sites and under adverse field conditions.
Supervise and coordinate projects for those with court-ordered community service.
Knowledge of indigenous vegetation, wildlife, and range management concepts and ability to analyze multiple resource management issues & make recommendations to resolve significant conflicts.
Work independently and complete daily activities according to work schedule.
Lift heavy objects and walk and stand for long periods of time.
Operation of motor vehicles in tight spaces.
Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to understand, follow, and transmit written or verbal instructions.
Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, other departments, officials of the public and vendors.
Represent the District in a professional manner, exemplifying integrity and excellence always.

Responsibilities

Complies with established safety policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure the safety of self, co-workers, community residents, and visitors.
Prioritize excellent internal and external customer service.
Proactively work to support quality service delivery to the community by acting on all observed opportunities for repair, maintenance and improved service delivery.
Performs all aspects of general open space maintenance including but not limited to; trail maintenance, vegetation management, dog park maintenance, community garden maintenance, trash removal, and other duties as assigned.
Assists in the implementation of vegetation & wildlife management plans, and native area improvements (e.g. drill seeding, herbicide application and mowing in managing noxious weed infestations, drainage repairs, etc.).
Maintains knowledge of resource maintenance and management practices and principles which include upland, wetland, riparian ecosystems; wildlife management; maintenance of trails and open space resources.
Work independently with all open space equipment. Operates midsized equipment for excavating, mowing and snow removal operations and for the maintenance of open space areas, (e.g. tractors, mowers, plows, quads, trucks, chain saws, etc.).
Completes work orders using the Asset Essentials work order and asset management system.
Contribute to the snow removal program and adjust schedule using flextime. This may include weekend and nighttime hours operating snow removal equipment.
Assists with setting up and taking down special event equipment from various parks and recreation programs, and community events.
Other related duties as assigned.
Implements vegetation & wildlife management plans, and native area improvements (e.g. drill seeding, herbicide application and mowing in managing noxious weed infestations, drainage repairs, etc.).
Assigned member of the snow crew, for the snow removal program and adjust schedule in response to snow events. This may include weekend and overnight hours operating snow removal equipment.
Special projects, tasks and responsibilities specific to open space may be assigned.
Serves as a member of various employee committees and planning teams as assigned.
Identifies and suggests actions as necessary to ensure a safe experience for open space visitors and protecting natural resources and facilities.

Benefits

100% paid employee-only medical insurance premiums.
100% paid employee-only dental & vision insurance premiums.
100% paid life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance premiums.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options for additional medical expenses.
Earn 80 hours of vacation per year (120 hours after 5 years).
80 hours of sick leave (renewed each year on work anniversary).
32 hours of annual personal leave.
10 paid 8-hour holidays.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support, guidance, and resources for employees and their families.
Up to $2,000 a year for education reimbursement.
Highlands Ranch Community Association recreation center pass for a discounted fee.
Pension Plan: 100% contribution employer match.
Optional 457 deferred compensation plan: Up to 6% employer contribution.
Post Employment Health Plan: Employer contributes $10 per month.
Over 1,000 group discounts for employees on everything from legal assistance to cell phone bills to shopping and travel