Arborist I (Austin Parks and Recreation)

City of Austin

7d•$22 - $24•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 the Arborist I position is to perform tree assessment, maintenance, hazard mitigation and/or tree removal in City of Austin Parks.

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.
Possess a basic 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 involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying or using a force equal to lifting up to thirty-five (35) pounds.
Must be physically and mentally able to communicate, respond and work with participant’s needs and safety issues; and tolerate loud noise associated with enthusiasm and excitement.
Ability to adapt to a variety of conditions such as daily walking, climbing, standing, balancing, kneeling, stooping, running, bending, crawling, stretching and reaching; and frequently walk and sit when leading various recreational activities.
Work outdoors in any and all types of weather and/or inclement conditions; and in confined spaces.
Work environment includes inside, and outside environmental conditions, extreme temperatures, and hazards associated with equipment operation including fumes, oils, gases, and mists.
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.

Nice To Haves

Experience climbing trees according to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards.
Experience performing tree maintenance according to ANSI standards.
Experience operating and maintaining heavy equipment used in the tree care industry.
Experience with tree maintenance, including tree pruning and removal.
Experience working with Austin Civilian Conservation Corp, Texas Conservation Corp, or Park Ranger Cadets.
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.