Arborist III

University of Central Florida•Orlando, FL

7d•$23 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

The Landscape and Natural Resources Department at UCF’s Facilities and Business Operations is seeking an experienced Arborist III to lead the Tree Care team. This is a hands-on leadership role combining fieldwork with responsibility for coordinating daily tree care operations and supporting the health, functionality, and aesthetics of UCF’s tree canopy. The lead Arborist works alongside crew members, provides technical expertise, and coordinates and participates in tree installation, pruning, removals, root remediation, and disease management. The role also serves as a secondary point of contact for customers and represents the department through effective communication, problem-solving, and service. Responsibilities may evolve based on organizational needs. The position requires a physical exam and a valid Class E driver’s license. The employee may drive to locations on and off campus for University business and may be required to participate in respiratory examinations and training in respirator use. The selected candidate must obtain an ISA Certified Arborist credential within six months of hire; the department covers the certification cost. Visa sponsorship is unavailable. The anticipated salary range is $23.33 to $31.21, with the final salary based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The position may be eligible for a sign-on bonus based on applicable criteria. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and at least 4 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219(6).
Obtain an ISA Certified Arborist credential within six months of hire; certification costs are covered by the department.
Valid Class E driver’s license.
Pass a required physical exam.
May be required to participate in respiratory examinations and training in respirator use.
Must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer; visa sponsorship and H-1B transfers or employment-based visa processing for individuals currently sponsored by another employer are unavailable.

Nice To Haves

At least 4 years of arboricultural experience overseeing tree care projects, including pruning, removals, and disease management, in an institutional or large-scale setting such as a university, park system, or municipality.
Previous leadership experience overseeing tree care teams or related operations.
Experience with advanced tree care techniques such as cabling, bracing, and lightning protection systems.
Proficiency operating and maintaining specialized tree care equipment, including aerial lifts and root remediation tools.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for customer interaction, report preparation, and team coordination.
Experience implementing safety protocols and conducting safety training sessions.
Experience coordinating tree care or debris removal during or after natural disasters, including hurricanes or tropical storms.

Responsibilities

Lead and supervise daily tree crew operations, ensuring work is safe, efficient, and meets required standards.
Perform and coordinate tree installation, pruning, removals, stump grinding, root remediation, and disease management.
Manage workflow, training, and employee development.
Maintain and oversee tree care equipment, including chipper trucks, brush chippers, chainsaws, pole saws, aerial platforms, stump grinders, root pruners, air spades, and compressors.
Ensure tools and machinery are safe, properly maintained, and functioning efficiently.
Coach and train employees on assignments, standards, customer service, correct procedures, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures.
Conduct quality checks to ensure services meet UCF standards and process guidelines.
Coordinate and schedule safety and tree care-related training for the team.
Ensure compliance with safety standards, address medical needs in case of injury, and document accidents, injuries, and unsafe conditions.
Promote and maintain a strong safety culture within the unit.
Review work orders and projects for accuracy and ensure timelines and details are met.
Provide technical guidance and help resolve problems.
Lead the team responsible for vegetative debris removal during natural disasters, including hurricanes and tropical storms, ensuring fallen trees, branches, and other vegetation are removed safely and efficiently.
Serve as a secondary customer contact, communicating effectively, solving problems, and providing exceptional service.