Field Arborist I

City of Atlanta•Atlanta, GA

About The Position

The Arborist I (Field Arborist) position in the Department of City Planning enforces the City's Tree Protection Ordinance and assists residents and professionals with tree-related issues. Responsibilities include evaluating tree health, issuing removal permits, inspecting construction sites for compliance with approved plans, issuing fines and fees for code violations, entering data into the City’s tracking systems, and representing the Arborist Division at Tree Conservation Commission hearings. The Arborist I ensures high-quality customer service and supports the City’s mission and core values.

Requirements

Knowledge of City permitting processes and Tree Protection Ordinance.
Arboricultural practices, hazard tree identification, and root zone impact assessment.
Customer service principles and procedures.
Skills in Performing detailed inspections with accuracy and minimal supervision.
Issuing permits, calculating fines, and writing concise reports.
Conducting tree risk assessments and reading site plans.
Ability to Interpret and enforce municipal codes and regulations.
Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Work independently in the field and collaborate across departments.
Analyze site conditions and provide practical, code-compliant solutions.
Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, Forestry, Horticulture, or a related field, and one (1) year of experience as an Arborist; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties.
Valid Georgia Driver’s License
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification

Nice To Haves

Experience interpreting site plans and technical drawings
Certification or experience in hazard tree evaluation
Background in public service or community engagement

Responsibilities

Issue permits and inspection reports; respond to customer inquiries by phone, email, or letter.
Maintain detailed inspection logs and database records.
Accurately assess and calculate fines and fees when applicable.
Represent the Arborist Division in appeal hearings and municipal court proceedings.
Collaborate with developers, architects, engineers, contractors, and homeowners to ensure compliance.
Educate the public and community groups on tree protection regulations and best practices.
Exhibit professionalism and effective interpersonal skills in customer interactions.
Evaluate trees for health, risk, and code compliance.
Issue permits for removal of trees that are dead, dying, or hazardous.
Post public notices regarding potential tree impacts on construction sites.
Inspect active sites for tree protection compliance; perform final inspections for CO issuance.
Issue citations for violations of the Tree Protection Ordinance.
May perform other duties as assigned.