URBAN FORESTER

About the role

To manage the City’s urban forestry program through monitoring performance, production, and quality of work; serve as a liaison between the City and community regarding urban forestry matters; provide highly responsible administrative support to assigned supervisor; and perform related work as required.

Responsibilities

• Performs a variety of administrative tasks related to reviewing, negotiating, and administering various maintenance and service contracts;
• Utilizes a tree inventory data collection and analysis software system;
• Reviews, recommends, and approves tree removal permits;
• Interacts with City departments in the development of tree related projects;
• Develops annual tree trimming schedule, removal, and planting activities including those outlined in the Urban Forest Master Plan;
• Investigates, analyzes, responds to, and resolves complaints from the general public regarding the location or condition of trees;
• Prepares projects related to, but not limited to, capital improvements and the Urban Forest Master Plan;
• Utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping software and other specialized software;
• Manages tree claims and may represent the City at legal proceedings and court hearings;
• Prepares and presents detailed and comprehensive written reports and oral presentations containing complex information and analysis to a variety of audiences, including but not limited to the City Council;
• Works with contractors and volunteer groups and oversees projects;
• Provides budget input, executes purchases, and manages resources related to urban forestry projects;
• Inspects landscape and forestry areas, including trees, throughout the City and initiates work orders to trim, spray, or remove trees;
• May supervise the forestry crew in the absence of the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director;
• May conduct safety meetings and enforce safety regulations;
• Reads and interprets construction plans;
• Attends meetings as directed;
• Drives on City business.

Minimum Qualifications

• Knowledge of principles and practices of landscape architecture and urban design;
• Principles in urban forestry and agriculture;
• Practical application of green infrastructure, environmental, and sustainability practices;
• Native and exotic plant materials;
• Basic principles of irrigation design;
• Basic engineering principles in grading, drainage, erosion control, and paving design;
• Principles and practices of public speaking;
• Spelling, grammar, and punctuation;
• Basic budgeting;
• Principles and practices of sound personnel management and supervision.

Skills

• Knowledge of principles and practices of landscape architecture and urban design;
• Practical application of green infrastructure, environmental, and sustainability practices;
• Native and exotic plant materials;
• Basic principles of irrigation design;
• Basic engineering principles in grading, drainage, erosion control, and paving design;
• Principles and practices of public speaking;
• Spelling, grammar, and punctuation;
• Basic budgeting;
• Principles and practices of sound personnel management and supervision.

Education/Training

• Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for acceptable job performance as determined by the City.

Special Conditions & Requirements

• Ability to work holidays, weekends, after hours, and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions while exposed to the elements as needed.
• A valid California Class "C" driver’s license or equivalent;
• Certification as a Certified Arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) at time of appointment;
• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) by ISA must be completed within three years of appointment.

Supplemental Information

• Desirable Qualifications: A valid California Class "A" driver’s license or equivalent.
• A master's degree in park management, landscape architecture, or public administration.