Forestry Specialist (Austin Parks and Recreation)

City of Austin•Austin, TX

21h•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, develop, monitor, and/or perform activities related to the conservation, preservation, and proliferation of trees in the City of Austin. The purpose of the Forestry Specialist position is to perform the role of an inspector, working independently to respond to tree maintenance requests or proactively inspect park trees to develop a scope of work, create tree maintenance work orders and assign priority. This position will frequently interact with constituents, regularly perform tree risk assessments, and frequently use ArcGIS mapping software as a routine part of their day.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Arboriculture, or related field.
Experience may substitute for the education up to the maximum of four (4) years.
Valid Texas Class “C” Driver’s License
Ability to use ArcGIS mapping software or similar software.
International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist credential or the ability to acquire within six (6) months of hire.
International Society of Arboriculture Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) or the ability to acquire within six (6) months of hire.
Ability to travel to more than one work location.
Tasks may involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying or using a force equal to lifting up to thirty-five (35) pounds.
Work environment includes inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme temperatures, and you must be physically and mentally able to communicate, respond and work with participant’s needs and safety issues.
If you are selected for this position and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you will drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.
Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedures.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
Skill in using computers and related software applications.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with city employees and the public.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
Ability to train others.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in the field of Municipal Forestry or Arboriculture.
Experience performing tree risk assessments.

Responsibilities

Review construction plans, specifications, contracts, etc. for compliance with codes, ordinances, zoning, etc. related to trees.
Monitor and coordinate tree-planting and/or tree maintenance activities for the City of Austin.
Coordinate division/section activities with other divisions/departments, public agencies, and private entities.
Inspect and treat trees for diseases, parasites, etc.
Confer with architects, developers, contractors, etc. to discuss tree preservation techniques.
Draft/write and enforce ordinances, policies, etc. relating to arboricultural and urban forestry practices.
Manage and/or coordinate specific tree programs.
Answer citizen’s questions and provide assistance.
Investigate consumer/citizen complaint to determine validity.
Research information as needed or requested.
Compile and calculate data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc.
May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training and guidance to others.