Consulting Utility Forester | Rapid City, SD

About the role

Our Consulting Utility Forester position is ideal for entry level and seasoned professionals with an educational background in forestry, horticulture, arboriculture, environmental studies, conservation or related disciplines and with experience in these fields and line of work.

Responsibilities

• Identify, inspect, and evaluate trees and brush along utility lines
• Submit inspection results to clients with recommendations
• Plan, direct, and coordinate the activities of assigned tree clearance crews
• Discuss and negotiate line‑clearance crew access issues
• Serve as a liaison between clients, tree crews, and client customers

Requirements

Two‑year or four‑year degree in Forestry, Biology, Natural Resources, Environmental Science or related field OR high school diploma/GED plus two years of UVM experience. High school diploma/GED requirement can be waived with 5 years of related experience.

Qualifications

• ISA Certified Arborist certification preferred
• Vegetation management experience preferred
• Competent computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience working with GIS integrated data collection software/hardware preferred but not required

Skills

• Self‑motivated, organized, production oriented
• Comfortable working independently and managing a geographical area for all vegetation‑related activities
• Able to work with stakeholders, utility customers, and line‑clearance vendors; excellent interpersonal skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Multi‑tasking and strong time‑management skills
• Ability to work in varied terrain and inclement weather with flexible schedules (available nights and weekends as needed)
• Able to sit for prolonged periods (extended driving, meetings, trainings)
• Valid driver’s license required

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Group life insurance (optional life insurance available)
• Short‑ and long‑term disability
• Paid vacation and holidays
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company vehicle/fuel card for work‑related and commuting purposes
• Boot allowance program
• ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) with a great vesting schedule

Pay

This position has a salary range of $22.00 to $30.00 per hour. Actual salaries vary within the range based on location, experience, expected quality and quantity of work, performance, operational needs, and other factors permitted by law.

Schedule

Flexible schedule required; availability for nights and weekends as needed to work in varied terrain and inclement weather.