Distribution Utility Forester

About the role

We are currently looking to add a Distribution Utility Forester to our team. This role involves working outdoors, independently, in a fast-paced environment, and with the challenges of a rewarding profession in vegetation management.

Responsibilities

• Pre-Patrol Preparation: Organize records, maps, and paperwork for patrol circuits; maintain accurate documentation.
• Field Patrol Duties: Safely patrol energy corridors on foot, identifying vegetation for pruning, removal, or protection per Client standards; classify prescribed work; conduct Tree Risk Assessments; mark vegetation and prescribe clearance actions.
• Landowner & Stakeholder Engagement: Use digital tools and maps to identify property boundaries and landowner rights; communicate work plans; obtain permissions; provide professional customer service and foster positive community relations.
• Vegetation Management & Compliance: Recommend sustainable vegetation management strategies; audit contractor work; investigate tree-related outages; address customer service and internal compliance issues.
• Coordination & Safety: Coordinate non-routine work with stakeholders and contractors; report safety concerns; follow safety protocols; operate vehicles safely; travel to assigned work areas.
• Additional Responsibilities: Participate in storm and emergency response as needed; perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resources, or related discipline or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, or tree-related green industry preferred.
• Knowledge or practical experience in tree identification.
• Knowledge of common computer applications and ability to learn new programs.
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record.
• Experience with GIS software/technology as well as Microsoft Suite and an iPhone.
• Must be able to work alone, outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, strong problem-solving and multi-tasking abilities, and show attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Must be able to work alone, outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain.
• Must have sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in a field environment.
• Must have the ability to verbally communicate to exchange information with public.
• Must have the ability to see and hear in normal range with or without correction.
• Must have the ability to operate assigned field equipment, including handheld computer, range finder, fyrake, water backpack, shovel, and traffic cone.

Skills

• Desire to learn.
• Ability to adapt.
• Commitment to engage in safe, constructive interactions with the public.
• Knowledge of ISA pruning techniques and ANSI line clearance standards & principles.
• Knowledge of IVM principles.
• Knowledge of common computer applications and ability to learn new programs.
• Knowledge of GIS software/technology as well as Microsoft Suite.
• Knowledge of basic first aid and CPR.
• Knowledge of local laws and regulations regarding vegetation management.
• Knowledge of local laws and regulations regarding utility line clearance.
• Knowledge of local laws and regulations regarding tree trimming.
• Knowledge of local laws and regulations regarding storm and emergency response.

Benefits

• Industry competitive pay.
• Company vehicle with a fuel card for work purposes.
• Day 1 of Employment: Medical/Dental/Vision/VOYA/Paid Holidays/EAP (Full-Time Employees).
• After 3 months: 401K, Life Insurance, Vacation Accrual, Short and Long-term Disability, Paid Maternity Leave.
• Paid Sick Time.
• Weekly Pay Cycle.
• Participation in Referral Bonus Program.
• Company sponsored Boot and clothing program (Full-Time Employees).
• Ongoing training and assistance with obtaining industry certifications.