Forester (Austin Parks and Recreation)

About This Position

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.

Essential duties and functions, 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.

• →Provides leadership, guidance, and technical support to others.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Application: A detailed, complete application is required, and applicants must include on their Employment Record all experience (work and/or volunteer) related to this job posting – up to 10 years or more; this will be used to determine your base compensation. Employment Record dates must include month and year. Verification of employment history dates on resume should match online Employment Application. Statements such as “See Resume” will not be accepted and a resume alone will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online application.
• Skills Assessments: Skills assessment(s) may be required as part of the recruitment process.
• Virtual Interviews: PARD may conduct virtual interviews.
• Military/Veteran: An applicant claiming Military/Veteran status must provide a copy of his or her DD-214(s), or valid comparable document, at the time of interview.
• Driving Requirement: This position requires a valid Texas Class “C” Driver’s License or the ability to acquire one by your hire date. External New Hires must meet the City of Austin’s Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) requisite. To be considered for a driving position, applicants cannot have more than three moving violations or a total of six Driver Record Evaluation points within a period of thirty-six (36) months.
• Physical Requirements: Tasks may involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying, or using a force equal to lifting up to thirty (30) pounds. Work environment includes inside, and outside environmental conditions, extreme temperatures, and hazards associated with equipment operation including fumes, oils, gases and mists. Must be physically and mentally able to communicate, respond and work with participant’s needs and safety issues.

• Valid Texas Class "C" Driver License.

• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) provides, protects and preserves a park system that promotes quality recreational, cultural and outdoor experiences for the Austin community. Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more! Click HERE for more information.

The purpose of the Forester position is to provide supervision and leadership role to two 3-person Forestry maintenance crews. Daily responsibilities include crew coordination and dispatch, job briefings, crew support, work order management, providing field training and work direction and crew accountability, performance reviews, timesheets, and work scheduling. Crews under the direction of this Forester perform tree maintenance utilizing current climbing techniques, aerial lifts, commercial vehicles, and heavy equipment common in the tree care industry.

• Monday – Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• May be required to work during special events, evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Work schedule and location is subject to change based on department needs and programs.
• May be required to work during city emergencies such as extreme weather events.

• Travel: If you are selected for this position and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you will drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.
• 90 Day Provision for Additional Vacancy: This posting may be used to fill other vacancies in other divisions/work locations within the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Decisions on assigned selection will be made at the time of hire based on the business needs of the department.
• Tobacco and Vape-Free Workplace: All PARD work site locations are tobacco-free. Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any PARD work site – including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicles located on the premises.

.

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.