Research Scientist Arboriculture

Bartlett Tree Experts•Charlotte, NC

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Overview 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. Benefits Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance 401k retirement plan Paid time off and holidays To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett . Responsibilities The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories are seeking a curious and passionate individual to work with our team of Research Scientists on advancing the field of arboriculture. The Arboricultural Research Scientist position is one of many professional Research Scientist roles at BTRL focused on developing and leading applied research programs in landscape plant health care, plant pest management, tree physiology, and soil science. This position combines scientific investigation, technical expertise, and educational outreach to support BTE’s arborist representatives, clients, and internal teams. The successful candidate will enjoy strong support for research initiatives and the ability to respond rapidly to emerging needs. While based in Charlotte, NC, this position often requires travel to study and conduct research on high priority issues and to serve regional BTE staff. This will involve regular travel throughout North America. The successful candidate will collaborate with research staff, industry partners, and BTE offices to develop and evaluate new management tools, refine plant health care techniques, and share findings through publications, presentations, and training programs. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for arboricultural research, the willingness to learn new areas of plant science, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions for real-world tree and landscape challenges.

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 many types of audiences such as the scientific community, arborists, public, industry, etc.
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 and 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.
Research topics may include biomechanics, pruning practices, structural support systems, root management, tree preservation, lightning protection, and/or soil science, with flexibility to determine priorities based on emerging needs and opportunities.
When appropriate, develop cooperative research with academia, non-profit, government, and allied businesses and organizations to evaluate innovative solutions and best practices in arboriculture and landscape management.
Regularly publish research results in scientific or technical journals, industry trade magazines, and company publications.
Research projects are internally funded or supported through collaborative partnerships; grant writing is not required.
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
Develop and revise Technical Reports (factsheets) for use by BTE staff and the public
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
Answer requests for information from BTE arborists via phone, text, MS Teams, and email
Participate in BTE sponsored training programs through lectures, field sessions, and lab demonstrations including:
Bi-annual technical update sessions
Division sales meetings
BTE sponsored client seminars and Client Days events
Arborist representative and plant health care specialist training sessions
Develop and maintain contacts with tree care industry professionals and societies (e.g. International Society of Arboriculture, Tree Care Industry Association, Soil Science Society of America) as appropriate through conference meetings, committee work, and cooperative studies
Serve on professional boards or committees to represent BTE’s interests and expertise within the industry
Lead and organize the activities of Research Associates, ensuring alignment with research goals, training, and operational standards
Provide regular updates on research progress and field activities to the Director of Research at BTRL