Urban Forestry Maintenance Operator - Limited Duration

This position is funded through an IRA USFS Workforce Development Grant and provides on-the-job training alongside current City of Salem Urban Forestry staff in professional tree care. Training includes tree identification, GIS tree inventory collection, asset management software, tree planting techniques, structural pruning practices, trailer training, wood chipper safety, stump grinding operation, tree rescue training, bucket truck operation, introduction to tree climbing, IPM tree injections, leading volunteer events, community outreach, traffic control training and certification, heavy equipment training, First Aid & CPR training and certification, and learning ISA, TCIA, and ANSI professional standards in tree care.

Responsibilities

• Operate a full array of landscape tools including hand tools, chainsaws, blowers, power pruners, brush chippers, and stump grinders.
• Operate mini skid steers, full-size skid steers, and heavy equipment related to tree removals and plantings.
• Drive larger vehicles as required.
• Respond to after-hours emergency tree work and be on standby for certain events and seasonal needs.
• Communicate with the public about Urban Forestry Division work.
• Act in a lead role directing job site tasks of seasonal employees, volunteers, or corrections personnel.

Requirements

• Pass a pre-employment background check.
• Possess an Oregon Driver license with a driving record that meets the City of Salem's driving standards.
• Pass a pre-employment drug screen depending on area assignment.
• Two years of experience in parks maintenance, repair, construction, landscaping, horticulture, turf or sports field maintenance, tree trimming, or acting as a ground hand.

Preferred Qualifications

• Oregon Pesticide License
• Class B CDL
• ISA Arborist Certification
• ODOT Flagger Certification
• First Aid & CPR Certification

Skills

• Understanding of occupational hazards and safety precautions in tree care.
• Positive and effective customer service principles.
• Safe work practices.
• Basic mathematical concepts.
• Proficiency with modern technology including computers, handheld devices, and relevant software.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, officials, and the public.
• Ability to communicate information clearly both orally and in writing.

Physical Requirements

• Heavy work: exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Visual acuity for reading blueprints, operating vehicles, viewing computer terminals, inspecting small defects/parts, using measurement devices, and assembling parts.
• Perform tasks requiring climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing for prolonged periods (2+ hours), walking, lifting, manual dexterity, repetitive motions, and grasping.
• Ability to express or exchange ideas by means of spoken word and receive detailed information through oral communication.
• Work primarily performed outdoors in all weather conditions.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Paid vacation and sick time in accordance with City policies.
• Competitive pay.
• Employer-paid PERS contribution of 6%.
• Opportunity for voluntary pre-tax contributions to a 457b account.
• Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Voluntary long-term care.
• Employee wellness program.
• Employee assistance program.
• Employee health clinic.

The City of Salem offers a comprehensive and equitable base salary within the listed range based on experience, skills, and education.