Arborist

City of Independence•Independence, MO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision by the Tree Trimming Superintendent, within the Independence Power & Light Transmission and Distribution Unit, performs work involving coordinating and facilitating the trimming and removal of trees adjacent to overhead power lines in order to minimize tree related outages of electric service. Advises customers regarding appropriate tree species to plant to avoid eventual contact with overhead power lines. May assist with the supervision of the contract tree trimming crews. Determines tree trimming needs for electric line clearance on individual properties; enters into trimming agreements with customers for tree trimming activities; advises management of trimming agreements and predetermined trimming schedules, as necessary. Monitors agreements with nurseries and works with contractor’s General Foreman and crews to insure quality work and production of contracts in order to provide tree planting services to customers. Evaluates hazardous and dead trees on City property and street rights-of-ways for trimming or removal. Responds to citizen inquiries and resolves complaints concerning tree insect and disease problems, city ordinances and other forestry issues. Makes oral presentations to various groups on forestry issues and the City’s forestry program. Evaluates the forestry program and makes recommendations to improve work practices, procedures and equipment.

Requirements

Associate Degree in Forestry or a related field.
Minimum of one year related experience; or any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Must possess a valid Driver’s License.
Must possess an Arborist Certification with the International Society of Arboriculture or equivalent.
Must complete required NIMS level training within the first six months of hire.
Knowledge of tree species and characteristics.
Knowledge of site requirements and required tree clearances for electric transmission lines.
Knowledge of proper tree care techniques, including watering, mulching, corrective pruning, fertilizing, insect and disease control.
Knowledge of City codes pertaining to trees and basic landscape design.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, other employees, and the general public.
Ability to give directions and gain compliance from subordinates.
Ability to organize and prioritize work.
Ability to read technical materials and apply to various situations.
Ability to make public presentations.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to identify trees during both summer and winter months.
Ability to identify hazardous conditions in trees.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual skills preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and facilitate the trimming and removal of trees adjacent to overhead power lines to minimize tree-related outages.
Advise customers on appropriate tree species for planting to avoid contact with overhead power lines.
Assist with the supervision of contract tree trimming crews.
Determine tree trimming needs for electric line clearance on individual properties.
Enter into trimming agreements with customers for tree trimming activities.
Advise management of trimming agreements and predetermined trimming schedules.
Monitor agreements with nurseries and work with contractor's crews to ensure quality work and production.
Evaluate hazardous and dead trees on City property and street rights-of-ways for trimming or removal.
Respond to citizen inquiries and resolve complaints concerning tree insect and disease problems, city ordinances, and other forestry issues.
Make oral presentations to various groups on forestry issues and the City's forestry program.
Evaluate the forestry program and make recommendations to improve work practices, procedures, and equipment.