Apprentice Municipal Worker-Forestry

City of Kalamazoo•Kalamazoo, MI

7d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an apprentice level position with a focus in forestry while also assisting in the winter maintenance programs. Employees in this class are primarily responsible for skilled pruning, removal, and planting of trees. Employees in the Forestry Focus area report to the Forestry Supervisor who will plan and distribute work, assist in training of employees and verify work is completed effectively in a timely manner.

Requirements

Experience in tree removal, pruning and planting.
Experience working near structures and over obstacles in addition to working under and along electric transmission lines.
Working knowledge of occupational hazards and related safety practices.
Ability to make minor repairs.
Good oral and written communication skills with the ability to understand and carry out instructions.
Ability to establish and effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public.
Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations.
Knowledge of Public Services Department activities.
Must be able to lift, push, and pull 90 pounds periodically.
Must have the ability and skills necessary to complete the apprenticeship.
Must obtain a Commercial Pesticide License and CPR training certificate within one year of appointment.
Certified Arborist Certification is required to move to the highest classification within this focus group.
Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator;s license and certified driver's license (CDL) with "B" endorsement with air brakes preferred or the ability to obtain within the first six (6) months of employment.
Completion of a High school diploma or GED.
Must be able and willing to work on-call shifts, overnight shifts and weekend shifts as needed and as determined by the Public Services Department.
Must be able to work is the United States without organizational sponsorship, both now and in the future.
An in-house written test will be provided for this position.

Nice To Haves

Certified Arborist Certification is required to move to the highest classification within this focus group.

Responsibilities

Operates a wide variety of specialized equipment including aerial lifts, wood, chippers, chainsaws, pruners and related mechanical equipment.
Removes dead branches, tree stumps, and performs stump grinding.
Maintains regular care of trees by trimming and/or removing limbs or branches.
Hauls logs and debris from City owned property; and right of way.
Sets up holiday tree displays.
Works with Public Services staff to learn operation and maintenance procedures.
Operates trucks in carrying tools, equipment, parts, and materials/supplies to and from a job site.
Performs minor equipment repairs.
Uses handheld computers, preparing simple work reports.
Places barricades and traffic delineators.