Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Agricultural Technician I (#20003586)

General Statement

Under general supervision, performs a variety of agricultural tasks associated with the development of farm crops as well as the maintenance of District farm property and equipment.

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Under the direction of an Engineer, makes daily assignments to contract employees; and recommends changes in work activities to improve the efficiency of contract employees.
  • Coordinates and monitors a small crew of laborers performing agricultural work assignments, and maintains daily work records of contract laborers.
  • Performs field work and sampling activities involved in the planting and harvesting of crops.
  • For approximately five months of the year, performs physical maintenance of District farm properties such as the repair of fence lines, gates and posts; inspects waterways and lakes for the removal of debris.
  • For approximately five months of the year, performs required maintenance and repair on District vehicles and farm machinery such as tractors, plows, discs and mowers.

Other Job Functions

  • Cooperates with Monitoring and Research Department field personnel in maintaining and controlling the levels of retention basins.
  • Collects post-harvest soil samples for determination of field pH and nutrient requirements.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Environmental Conditions

May involve exposure to a variety of weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold, dust, mud and pollen.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Some knowledge of modern agricultural practices and farm equipment.
  • Some knowledge of the maintenance and mechanics of farm equipment.
  • Ability to maintain accurate logs and records.
  • Ability to work long hours.
  • Ability to plan and coordinate the work of others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.
  • Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent, and two years of experience in farming.

Substitution

Additional farming experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

Promotional Requirement

  • None
CLASS: 20003586; EST: 7/1/2012;