Job Description

Vector Control Technician (Mosquito & Vector Research, Surveillance, & Control)

This role involves a dynamic blend of laboratory analysis and fieldwork to support critical mosquito and vector research, surveillance, and control programs. The ideal candidate will be passionate about public health, capable of rigorous scientific work, and comfortable in diverse outdoor environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Management & Record Keeping: Maintain meticulous and accurate records of surveillance data and other program-related information.
• Field Collection: Utilize various traps and methodologies to effectively collect adult mosquitoes in diverse settings.
• Survey Assistance: Actively assist with vector surveys, including both field collection and subsequent laboratory analysis of samples.
• Community Education: Engage with residents to educate them about vector control strategies and public health best practices.
• Vehicle Operation: Safely operate a City vehicle to travel to various work sites and perform job-related activities.
• Scientific Inquiry & Reporting: Design and execute relevant scientific studies, applying the scientific method to report findings comprehensively.
• Product Application: Safely and effectively apply mosquito control products as directed.
• Ancillary Duties: Perform other related duties as assigned, provided they are a logical and appropriate extension of the position’s core functions.
• Professional Conduct: Interact professionally and respectfully with the public, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• Attendance: Maintain regular and timely attendance.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Instruction Adherence: Strong ability to follow instructions, safety practices, and standard operating procedures accurately.
• Accuracy & Thoroughness: Demonstrated capability to perform work with high accuracy and thoroughness.
• Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential.
• Computer Proficiency: Skilled in the use of personal computers, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel), email, and internet navigation.
• Equipment Operation: Possess and exhibit the necessary skills to operate assigned tools and equipment safely and properly.
• Adaptability & Learning: Must be comfortable working outside of a typical comfort zone with a genuine willingness to learn new skills and adapt to changing conditions.
• Teamwork & Pace: A collaborative team player capable of thriving in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines.
• Customer Service: Ability to provide excellent customer service, demonstrating a strong desire to assist individuals regardless of their circumstances.
• Independence: Proven ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Software Aptitude: Capability to quickly learn and utilize additional software applications relevant to work assignments.
• Physical Acuity: Must possess the physical ability to perform all job functions, including but not limited to maintaining balance while navigating and walking on slippery, uneven, and steep creek channels and various terrains.

Education, Experience, and Other Requirements

• Education: Must be currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree with a major in biological sciences or a closely related field.
• Transcripts: Current academic transcripts are mandatory with the application.
• Preferred Knowledge: A working knowledge of mosquitoes and laboratory equipment is preferred.
• Mapping Skills: Candidate must possess the ability to read and interpret various types of maps; familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is preferred.
• Background Checks: Successful completion of a credit check and Federal/National criminal background check is required.
• Driver’s License: Must hold a valid Texas driver’s license with an acceptable driving record as defined by City policy.
• Pre-employment Screenings: Must pass a pre-employment basic physical, drug screen, functional assessment screening (Level 1), Titmus vision screening, and Ishihara vision screening.

Working Conditions

While performing the essential functions of this position, the employee will experience routine and frequent exposure to a wide range of environmental factors, including:

• Bright/dim light
• Dusts and pollen
• Extreme heat and/or cold
• Wet or humid conditions
• Extreme noise levels
• Animals/wildlife
• Vibration
• Fumes and/or noxious odors
• Traffic
• Moving machinery
• Electrical shock
• Heights
• Radiation
• Disease/pathogens
• Toxic/caustic chemicals
• Explosives
• Other extreme hazards not explicitly listed above

Safety Equipment: Essential safety equipment, such as gloves, goggles, hard hats, safety vests, steel-toe boots, back support belts, and seat belts, will be provided and must be worn as mandated by department procedures and good safety practices.

Physical Demands

This position demands moderate physical labor, requiring strength and agility. The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Frequent Activities: Standing, reaching with hands and arms, climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, talking, and hearing.
• Occasional Activities: Sitting, tasting or smelling.
• Lifting/Carrying: Occasionally required to lift, shovel, and carry up to 30 pounds and exert up to 75 pounds of force.
• Vision Requirements: Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the job requirements change.