Contract Utility Forester (ISA Arborist) | Richmond / Petersburg, VA

About the role

ACRT, Inc. is seeking energetic experienced professionals who enjoy working outdoors. The Contract 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

• Perform identification, inspection, and evaluation of 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
• Travel throughout Virginia with some overnight travel

Requirements

• 2‑year or 4‑year degree in forestry, horticulture, environmental science or closely related field; OR 2 years of experience in Utility Vegetation Management or related field (e.g., general Right‑of‑Way management, Integrated Vegetation Management, nursery work, timber cutting)
• ISA Arborist certification required
• Valid driver's license required
• Ability to work in varied terrain and inclement weather with flexible schedules (available nights and weekends as needed)
• Self‑motivated, organized, production oriented
• Comfortable working in an independent environment and managing a geographical area for all vegetation related activities
• Able to work with stakeholders, utility customers and line clearance vendors and have excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills
• Multi‑tasking and strong time management skills required
• Competent computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite

Qualifications

• Previous experience in Utility Vegetation Management preferred
• Experience working with GIS integrated data collection software/hardware preferred but not required

Skills

• Self‑motivated, organized, production oriented
• Comfortable working in an independent environment
• Ability 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)
• Valid driver's license required
• Competent computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with GIS integrated data collection software/hardware (preferred)

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Group life insurance
• Optional life insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability
• Vacation
• Holidays
• 401(k)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company vehicle/fuel card for work‑related and commuting purposes