Careers at UMass Amherst

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world. 

Job Summary

Technical Assistant II (Pest Control) performs technical work related to pest and rodent control within and around University owned buildings and land; performs related work as required.

Essential Functions

• Participates in the safe handling, distribution, and application of pesticides and other pest control materials on University-owned land and buildings.
• Arranges and plans schedules for pest control in and around University owned land buildings. 
• Engages in all aspects of pest control, including the management of insects, weeds, birds, bats, rodents, snakes, skunks, other vertebrates, and dead animals.
• Performs minor repairs on pest control equipment, maintains personal protective equipment, and orders supplies such as equipment, pesticides, and other pest control materials.
• Reports on unsanitary conditions of food handling areas, shipping and receiving, and BSL-2 (Biosafety Level -2) and animal facilities areas and any other areas that might be a breeding source for pests and take proper action to rectify the situation. 
• Maintains records of all pesticide work performed when using pesticides. 
• Maintains updated copies of Safety Data Sheets on all chemicals used.
• Apply and complies with CMR (Code of Massachusetts Relations) and University policies regarding the safe use, storage, and disposal of pesticides. 
• Completes the Annual Pesticide Use Form for the Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau.
• May functionally supervise others assisting in pesticide projects. 
• Assists in University snow removal operations by operating light trucks, snow blowers, power shovels, shovels, etc. 
• May assist in the application of herbicide as needed on University owned land.
• Performs job responsibilities in an environmentally compliant and responsible manner reflective of Physical Plant policies, procedures and goals relative to environmental compliance and stewardship.
• Operates motor vehicle to travel to work sites.
• Practices and promotes excellent customer service in the workplace and exhibits a clear commitment to the diverse needs of customers.

Other Functions

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Massachusetts Pesticide Applicator's License.
• Class “D” Driver’s License.
• Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau Certification State Code 41.
• Six (6) months of experience in the use, storage, and toxicity of pesticides used in pest control work, and the maintenance of equipment.
• Knowledge of the use and operation of equipment used in pest control.
• Ability to meet with University staff, faculty and students and fully explain the proper use and type of pest control work being done according to State and Federal Regulations.
• Knowledge of arthropod and vertebrate identification.
• Knowledge of safety practices used in connection with materials used in pest control work.
• Ability to pass a pulmonary function test and wear a ½ or full-face negative pressure respirator.
• Possess good oral, writing and record keeping skills.
• Familiarity will the Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR).
• Ability to understand pesticide labels and material safety data sheets.
• Strong customer services skills.
• Ability to wear either a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) or a respiratory mask.
• Math skills sufficient to prepare dilutions at correct concentrations.
• Knowledge of the proper use of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
• Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance specific to pest control.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws pertaining to pesticide storage, use and disposal. 

Physical Demands

• Ability balance, carry, reach and twist.
• Ability to lift 50lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch and climb for long periods of time. 

Additional Details

• Must be available for scheduled overtime and callbacks during emergencies.
• Position includes obligation to work overtime and return to work between scheduled shifts when directed.
• Incumbent must ensure service desk is provided with a current phone number for use in callbacks.
• This is an essential position within the Physical Plant.
• May be asked to work first shift. 
• Participates in Cholinesterase testing as well as additional tests deemed necessary at intervals determined by the University occupational health physician.

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday; 3pm - 11pm. 

Salary Information

AFSCME Non-Exempt Grade 13.

Special Instructions to Applicants

 Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.