Research Scientist Arboriculture

Bartlett • Charlotte, NC

86d

About The Position

The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company (BTE) is a premier commercial/residential tree care company that employs over 500 arborist representatives and 3,500 total employees in more than 130 offices across the United States, Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories (BTRL) are the research, diagnostic, and technical training heart of the BTE. Our mission is to advance tree research and diagnose plant problems to improve plant health care for our clients. The BTRL is composed of laboratories in Charlotte, North Carolina, Cornelius, Oregon, and Reading, United Kingdom. The Charlotte laboratory serves as the central research and diagnostic center. It is housed within our 360-acre, Level IV accredited arboretum and research grounds containing over 32,000 accessioned trees and shrubs, including major collections of magnolia, oak, crapemyrtle, crabapple, holly, and many other key woody plant groups and rare plants for conservation purposes.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Soil Science, Tree Physiology, Urban Forestry, or closely related program of study.
• Proficiency with field plot and lab experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Experience/knowledge of integrated pest management and soil science.
• Professional experience or studies in woody landscape plant identification.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience giving scientific presentations/trainings for various audiences.
• Overnight travel is required for research, meetings, and branch office technical support.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of or willingness to learn field and lab-based diagnostic techniques relevant to arboriculture, such as soil testing, decay detection, and microscopy.
• A balanced background in both lab and field experimentation including techniques relevant to arboriculture such as tree stability assessments, soil analysis, root system evaluations, and physiological monitoring of tree responses to environmental conditions.
• Familiarity with cultural and mechanical strategies for managing tree health, including pruning techniques, soil amendments, mulching practices, and other factors that influence tree structure and development.

Responsibilities

• Develop applied research programs in arboriculture with emphasis on practical, science-based approaches to enhancing tree health, structural integrity, and resilience to environmental stressors in urban and managed landscapes.
• Conduct research on topics such as biomechanics, pruning practices, structural support systems, root management, tree preservation, lightning protection, and soil science.
• Develop cooperative research with academia, non-profit, government, and allied businesses to evaluate innovative solutions and best practices in arboriculture and landscape management.
• Publish research results in scientific or technical journals, industry trade magazines, and company publications.
• Provide on-site technical support and training to BTE offices, including field-based diagnostic support of tree and shrub problems.
• Develop and maintain Bartlett technical management recommendations with emphasis on arboricultural practices, soil health, and environmental factors affecting tree growth.
• Create A/V programs on landscape plant issues and soil care for educational use by company personnel and clients.
• Develop articles on arboriculture, soil science, tree preservation, and/or other topics for the BTE website, publications and newsletters.
• Participate in BTE sponsored training programs through lectures, field sessions, and lab demonstrations.
• Develop and maintain contacts with tree care industry professionals and societies.
• Lead and organize the activities of Research Associates, ensuring alignment with research goals, training, and operational standards.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• 401k retirement plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Crop Production
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree