Arborist I (Planting & Watering/Austin Parks and Recreation)

City of Austin

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, maintain public trees using a working knowledge of tree pruning, removal, planting, watering, chain saw safety, aerial lift operations, rope and saddle tree climbing, electrical hazard awareness, tree biology and industry best management practices. The purpose of this Arborist I position will be to drive and operate a 2000-gallon water truck to water trees daily through the summer and fall months, as well as tree planting, structural pruning, mulching and inventory updates during the planting season.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus one (1) year of outdoor experience in construction, landscaping, or tree care, which included the use of power tools or motorized equipment.
Possess a basic knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
Knowledge of City practice, policy, and procedures.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather.
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.
Possess a valid Texas Class C Driver License.
Must obtain Texas Class A or B Commercial Driver License and any necessary endorsements within three (3) months of employment.
Tasks may involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying, or using a force equal to lifting up to thirty-five (35) 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.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience operating and maintaining commercial vehicles or heavy equipment used in the tree care industry.
Previous experience planting, watering and maintaining young trees.
Previous experience installing or maintaining irrigation systems.
Experience working with Austin Civilian Conservation Corp., Texas Conservation Corp., or Park Ranger Cadets.
Current/Valid International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification as a Certified Arborist/Tree Worker, or the ability to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.
Current/Valid Texas Irrigation License, or the ability to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.
Ability to travel to more than one work location.

Responsibilities

Works in a crew setting to complete assigned work orders for tree planting and maintenance activities and communicates work order status to crew lead.
Uses basic rigging techniques to safely lower tree limbs, trunks, and storm debris for public safety and infrastructure protection.
Operates water truck, dump truck, aerial lift truck, grapple brush truck, and other Forestry vehicles and equipment as needed, including vehicle inspections, basic maintenance and maintaining vehicle records.
Provides rotating City-wide emergency response to severe weather events during and after normal work hours.
Applies a wide range of chemicals and fertilizers to treat and control insects, plant diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
Remains informed of laws, policies, and regulations concerning the application of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
Maintains and updates GIS tree inventory and work management systems.