Pest Controller

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 11/06/2024. EXPERIENCE: A specific length of training and experience is not required, but you must show evidence of training or experience of sufficient scope and quality of your ability to do the work of this position. Evidence which demonstrates you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such on your resume. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards. SCREEN-OUT ELEMENT: Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed screen out element, which usually appears as question 1 in the on-line questionnaire. Those applicants who appear to possess at least the minimal acceptable qualification requirement are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and are eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements: Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More Than Normal Supervision Dexterity and Safety Interpret Instructions, Specifications (other than blueprint reading) Materials Measuring Instruments Technical Practices Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment. Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Pest Controllers often lift and handle materials weighing over 23 kilograms (53 pounds) and carry chemical solutions and equipment weighing up to 18 kilograms (40 pounds) for extended periods. They occasionally work in cramped and inconvenient surroundings requiring manipulation of equipment in awkward positions for prolonged periods. Work frequently requires standing, stopping, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions for extended periods. They may move furniture and equipment and operate high impact pneumatic hammers as well as various carpentry and masonry tools. The work is accomplished both inside and outside. When working outside, pest control workers are often exposed to hot sun for extended periods of time and occasionally to bad weather. Outside work may be done in marsh areas or under hot and dusty conditions for extended periods. Inside work is often accomplished in structural areas with minimum ventilations and/or limited access. The workers mix substances and apply pesticides while wearing respirators, gloves, and other personal protective equipment designed to nullify the risk of exposure to toxic dust and sprays which might damage their health. Damage may be experienced while wearing protective clothing, respirators, goggles, or face masks for extended periods of time. They may be exposed to poisonous insects, reptiles, and plants and to wild and rabid animals.
This is a full-time position located in Environmental Management Service (EMS), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. The applicant must have a certification from the state of Texas in the performance of pest control and be able to perform with a minimum amount of supervision. The applicant is responsible for planning, implementing, and carrying out a complete and comprehensive integrated pest management program for this Medical Center.