Forester Job Description: Purpose: Under minimal direction, this position develops, monitors, and/or performs activities related to the conservation, preservation, and proliferation of trees in the City of Austin.
Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
Essential duties and function, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
- Reviews construction plans, specifications, contracts, etc. for compliance with codes, ordinances, zoning, etc. related to trees.
- Monitors and coordinates tree-planting activities for the City of Austin.
- Coordinates division/section activities with other divisions/departments, public agencies, and private entities. Inspects and treats trees for diseases, parasites, etc.
- Confers with architects, developers, contractors, etc. to discuss tree preservation techniques.
- Drafts/writes and enforces ordinances, policies, etc. relating to arboricultural and urban forestry practices. • Manages and/or coordinates specific tree programs, i.e., Oak Wilt Program, Austin Releaf Program, etc.
- Answers citizens’ questions and assists. Investigates consumer/citizen complaint to determine validity.
- Researches information as needed or requested.
- Compiles and calculates data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc.
Responsibilities – Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: Provides leadership, guidance, and technical support to others.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
- Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
- Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
- Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
- Ability to train others.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Arboriculture or a related field, plus two (2) years of experience developing or coordinating urban forestry programs. Experience may substitute for the education up to the maximum of four (4) years. Licenses or Certifications: Valid Texas Class “C” Drivers’ License. Preferred Qualifications/Preferred Experience:
- Experience in secured tree climbing and/or working at height from an aerial lift for tree maintenance operations.
- International Society of Arboriculture (TRAQ) certification or able to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
- International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified Arborist or able to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
Other:
- Ability to travel to more than one work location.
