Forestry Supervisor

About the role

The Town of Brookline is seeking a skilled and motivated Forestry Supervisor to oversee the care and maintenance of its thriving urban forest.

Responsibilities

• Supervise, plan, and participate in tree maintenance, planting, removal, pruning, fertilization, cabling/bracing, and insect/disease control.
• Lead assigned Town staff and contract crews, ensuring safe and efficient work practices.
• Operate equipment including bucket trucks, chainsaws, brush cutters, and heavy/light motor equipment; climb trees as needed for high-level pruning and removal.
• Respond to emergencies such as storm damage, hazardous trees, and after-hours calls.
• Maintain the Town’s tree inventory system and prepare records and reports.
• Oversee the Division’s Integrated Pest Management program, including the application of pesticides and herbicides.
• Recommend tree species for planting and oversee selection, planting, transplanting, and long-term care.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards; conduct training, site inspections, and hazard prevention measures.
• Serve as liaison to residents, contractors, utilities, and Town departments regarding forestry-related matters.
• Monitor contractor work and administer related contracts and purchasing.
• Support winter maintenance operations, including snow removal.

Requirements

• High school diploma plus technical training in arboriculture, horticulture, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 5-7 years of hands-on experience landscaping, tree care, and/or parks maintenance, including supervisory responsibility.
• Ability to lead and train staff, operate specialized forestry equipment, assess hazardous trees, and work in all weather conditions.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills.

Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B required.
• MA Hoisting Engineer's License.
• MA or ISA Certified Arborist Credential.
• MA Pesticide Applicator License (Category 36).

Benefits

The Town of Brookline offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits, including generous leave time, great health plans, and participation in the State pension system.