Consulting Utility Forester 4-6 | Bakersfield / Tehachapi, CA

ACRT•Bakersfield, CA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

ACRT Pacific, LLC is hiring an advanced-level Consulting Utility Forester 4 for its Operations department. Reporting to the Operations Manager, this role performs complex vegetation management inspections, evaluations, and work prescriptions along utility lines. The forester manages complex circuits, coordinates with contractors and stakeholders, and ensures compliance with client and regulatory requirements. The position is primarily outdoors and requires advanced technical forestry knowledge, sound decision-making, and effective communication with clients, contractors, property owners, agencies, and the public. The role includes independently patrolling distribution and/or transmission circuits, inspecting and evaluating vegetation, prescribing tree trimming and removal work, mapping circuits, recording prescriptions and data, and tracking work progress. The forester also audits contractor trimming and removal work, evaluates quality and compliance, determines future trimming needs, and addresses discrepancies. Employees must follow applicable safety protocols and wear required PPE. The role is non-exempt, has no supervisory responsibilities, and may require travel based on project and client needs. Employees typically report directly to field locations using a company-provided vehicle and may not report to a physical office daily.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Four years of related arboricultural or vegetation management experience.
Must be at least 21 years old.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
CPR/First Aid certification required prior to start.
Ability to perform complex vegetation inspections and prescribe work.
Advanced knowledge of tree identification, growth rates, and vegetation management practices.
Ability to interpret and apply client vegetation management standards and specifications.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex field conditions.
Ability to work in rugged terrain and inclement weather.
Ability to read and follow maps.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and make sound decisions.
Ability to coordinate with contractors, agencies, and stakeholders.
Ability to resolve field issues and escalate appropriately.
Ability to walk, stand, and work outdoors for extended periods; lift up to 25 pounds; operate a vehicle and field equipment; and wear required PPE.
Drug testing is required.

Nice To Haves

ISA Certified Arborist certification, or ability to obtain it within a defined timeframe.
Experience with GIS, data collection tools, and utility systems.
Experience coordinating with contractors or external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Independently patrol distribution and/or transmission circuits, including complex or high-priority areas.
Identify, inspect, and evaluate trees and vegetation.
Prescribe tree trimming and removal work in accordance with client standards and specifications.
Map circuits using client continuity lists.
Enter prescriptions and data into handheld devices and applicable systems.
Notify property owners and obtain necessary permissions when required.
Track work progress and manage documentation.
Perform outage investigations and support complex field scenarios.
Support and coordinate vegetation management activities across assigned areas.
Audit contractor tree trimming and removal work; evaluate quality, productivity, and compliance.
Determine future trimming requirements and cycles.
Complete post-audit documentation and reporting, and resolve discrepancies or issues in contractor work.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and client vegetation management standards.
Obtain permits from public agencies as required and maintain proper documentation in client systems.
Follow safety requirements, laws, regulations, and required PPE protocols; adhere to attendance and work-hour requirements.
Serve as a liaison between clients, contractors, and customers, coordinating to resolve access issues, work conflicts, and scheduling challenges.
Maintain working relationships with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders.
Communicate with property owners, agencies, and the public; support resolution of customer concerns or escalated issues.
Complete required safety training, onboarding, and any additional training for systems, compliance, or client standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.