Arborist I

GENERAL PURPOSE Performs a variety of working level semi-skilled duties related to the care, maintenance, pruning and planting of all trees on city-owned property. This role is dedicated to the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants. SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the general supervision of the Community Forester. SUPERVISION EXERCISED May provide close to general supervision to temporary, seasonal and or part-time staff. essential functions Coordinates inspection of trees for removal or pruning; schedules and conducts inspections; performs routine tree maintenance; plants and transplants trees; determines pruning or removal needs in emergencies or other situations which may negatively impact public health, welfare, or safety; stimulates healthy plant growth through custom pruning and cutting, and through proper fertilization methods; controls insects and disease through proper cultural practices and chemical methods where needed. Attention to safety and detail with each task throughout the day. Operates a variety of types of small and light equipment such as chain saws, pruning equipment, backhoe, loaders, trenchers, and various hand tools. Performs general public relations duties as needed to lend support and educate the public related to forestry programs and projects; prepares and issues media releases and information; plans and coordinates city Arbor Day celebration activities; prepares and gives presentations to interested civic groups. Assists the public as needed to comply with city ordinances; advises public regarding selection of tree types; provides information relating to tree care. Maintains inventory of street trees and other city-owned trees and related records; supervises volunteer crews in collecting data to complete city-wide inventory; assists with maintaining computerized record. Coordinates and, ass ists in long-range planning of the urban forestry program; future planting, pruning and removal goals. Designs and coordinates planting and care of city-owned landscaped areas that include shrubs, annuals, perennials and other similar growing materials; stimulates healthy plant growth through the use of appropriate horticultural methods; demonstrates proper fertilization methods; controls insects and disease through proper cultural practices and chemical methods where needed; purchase all planting materials. Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Education and Experience: 2. One to Two (1-2) years experience in forestry, botany, arboriculture, horticulture, forestry, silviculture, ecology or some other related field; AND 1. High School Diploma 2. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Considerable knowledge of maintenance equipment such as backhoe, loader, dump truck, mowers, tractor, power overseeders, aerators, thatchers, trimmers, etc.; hazards and related safety precautions associated with equipment operations; interpersonal communication skills. Ability to effectively apply chemicals for the abatement and eradication of noxious weeds and insects; frequently lift 35 to 50 pounds and occasionally lift up to 75 to 100 pounds or more; tolerate weather extremes in work environment; communicate verbally and in writing; develop effective working relationships with supervisor, subordinates and the public. Pruning and removal of trees including; technical rigging, aerial bucket operation, and climbing proficiency with rope and saddle. 1. Special Qualifications: Certified Arborist within one year of hire. Cer tified Weed and Pest Control Applicator within one year of hire. Must possess a valid Utah Driver's License and meet the requirements of the city's Motor Vehicle policy. May be required to obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). 1. Work Environment: Tasks require variety of physical activ ties, generally involving muscular strain, such as walking, standing, stooping, lifting, sitting, reaching, etc. Talking, hearing and seeing essential to the performance of the job. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity exist. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, discriminating thinking. Daily exposure to changing weather conditions and seasonal elements. Frequent local travel required in normal course of job performance. Position is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.