Vector Field Technician - St. Paul - Seasonal

Metropolitan Mosquito Control•St. Paul, MN

3d•$17 - $21

About The Position

Vector Field Technician (formerly known as the Catch Basin Mosquito Technician) is a crucial role that keeps our District operations running smoothly. You will use district vehicles and equipment to perform the vital functions of our integrated pest management program. You will be working outdoors and experience some really cool natural environments. Becoming a technician is a great opportunity for those interested in gaining experience in Public Health, Field Biology, Entomology, or Community Outreach or for those looking to stay active with a rewarding summer opportunity. The Vector Field Technician will perform vector and vector borne disease surveillance, control, and research activities that support District objectives. Responsibilities include conducting surveillance of local arthropod vectors, such as ticks and mosquitoes, and implementing appropriate control methods to reduce disease risk. A major component of the position involves bicycle based mosquito control operations, where technicians apply pesticides from a mobile treatment platform (25%). Additional duties include participating in the investigation of vector borne disease outbreaks, evaluating control product efficacy, and contributing to related research projects (75%).

Requirements

The belief that people are the source of extraordinary experiences, and the desire to contribute to something bigger than yourself, every day
A willingness to learn and an openness to feedback, coaching and mentorship
The ability to legally work in the USA, A high school diploma or GED, and a valid driver license
No prior experience in vector surveillance or control required.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
Obtain a Minnesota Pesticide Applicator License upon employment (if not already licensed).
Ability to ride a bicycle for extended periods while following traffic laws.
Ability to learn and apply mosquito control methods.
Ability to read and interpret maps.
Ability to use GPS navigation, smartphones, and relevant computer software.
Ability to read, write, and follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to perform basic math and understand units of measure.
Ability to perform moderately demanding physical activities.
Ability to operate District vehicles and mosquito control equipment after training.
Ability to follow all District and OSHA safety requirements.

Responsibilities

Survey for and control mosquitoes that transmit diseases
Educate the public regarding all aspects of District programs, with emphasis on ways to reduce risk of mosquito and tick-borne diseases.
Survey for and control nuisance causing mosquitoes.
Monitor deer tick populations and provide public education regarding Lyme and other tick-borne diseases
Deploy and retrieve traps to support adult mosquito surveillance
Sample stormwater structures to support larval surveillance and monitor pesticide effectiveness
Inspect and sample public and private properties to identify larval habitats and monitor adult mosquito populations
Apply mosquito control treatments to stormwater catch basins by bicycle or vehicle
Assist with tick surveillance, pathogen testing, and related research activities
Respond to vector and vector borne disease outbreaks under the direction of the Vector Ecologist
Document all field activities and insecticide use using smartphone applications and internal databases
Calculate proper dosages and apply granular pesticides to larval habitats according to product labels
Maintain accuracy, completeness, and integrity of MMCD mapping and operational data
Communicate clearly and respectfully with coworkers, supervisors, and members of the public
Promote a diverse, culturally competent, and respectful workplace environment
Participate in public engagement and outreach events such as county fairs, state fairs, and community parades
Follow all established safety procedures in both field and laboratory settings
Identify potential risks, evaluate safety protocols, and recommend updates to safety guidelines as appropriate
Perform routine maintenance on buildings, vehicles, bicycles, and other District equipment
Contribute actively to the District’s culture of safety