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

ACRT Services•Tehachapi, CA

11d•$35 - $39•Onsite

About The Position

The Consulting Utility Forester 4 performs advanced vegetation management inspections, evaluations, and work prescriptions along utility lines. The role manages complex circuits, coordinates vegetation management activities with contractors and stakeholders, and ensures compliance with client and regulatory requirements. Work is primarily outdoors and requires advanced technical knowledge, sound independent decision-making, and effective communication with clients, contractors, property owners, agencies, and the public. The position reports to the Operations Manager and has no supervisory responsibilities. Employees typically travel directly to field locations in a company-provided vehicle and may not report to a physical office each day. Travel is required as needed based on project and client requirements. Safety training and company onboarding are required; additional training may be required for systems, compliance, and client standards. Drug testing is required.

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 before starting.
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, read and follow maps, and make sound decisions independently.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to coordinate with contractors, agencies, and stakeholders and resolve field issues or escalate them 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.

Nice To Haves

ISA Certified Arborist certification, or ability to obtain it within a defined timeframe (the posting also identifies this as required or obtainable 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 trimming and removal work according to client standards and specifications.
Map circuits using client continuity lists and 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 address discrepancies or issues in contractor work.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and client vegetation management standards; obtain permits from public agencies as required.
Maintain proper documentation in client systems and follow safety requirements, laws, regulations, PPE requirements, attendance rules, and work-hour requirements.
Serve as a liaison between clients, contractors, and customers; coordinate to resolve access issues, work conflicts, and scheduling challenges.
Maintain relationships with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders; communicate with property owners, agencies, and the public.
Support resolution of customer concerns and escalated issues.
Complete other duties as assigned.