Tree Permitting Supervisors (Supervisor I - Exempt) - Multiple Vacancies

City of Portland•1900 SW 4th Ave, OR

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Portland’s Permitting & Development – Tree Permitting Division is seeking three (3) experienced and highly motivated Supervisors to lead key functional sections within the division. These positions oversee: Development & Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), Non-Development Tree Permitting, and Compliance & Enforcement. The Tree Permitting Division administers the City’s Tree Code (Title 11) to equitably preserve, restore, and expand Portland’s urban forest. Guided by the 2025 Urban Forest Plan, the division supports biodiversity, community health, habitat connectivity, and the city’s unique sense of place. Supervisors play a crucial role in the consistent application and interpretation of tree regulations, ensuring effective customer service, program oversight, and equitable enforcement. Ideal candidates bring strong leadership abilities, excellent communication and conflict-mediation skills, and deep knowledge of arboriculture practices and municipal tree regulations. These roles require sound judgment, the ability to navigate complex permitting or compliance situations, and a commitment to fostering workplace diversity and a positive, inclusive environment. Each position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Portland’s green spaces and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable urban environment.

Requirements

Experience working independently with strong initiative and sound judgment to oversee and manage an urban forestry permitting program’s daily functions and responsibilities.
Experience managing a diverse workload that applies the principles, theories, and methods of urban forest management and municipal tree regulation, including tree risk assessment, permitting, and the application of ISA best management practices.
Experience interpreting site plans, reviewing arborist reports and the ability to use modern permitting management systems to accurately track data, generate reports, and manage workflow.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; present information, reports, and recommendations clearly and persuasively.
Ability to establish and effective working relationships with management, staff, and external stakeholders.
ISA Certified Arborist
Hold a valid state driver's license and acceptable driving record.
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required to be obtained within six months of hire.
Ability to obtain and maintain Electrical Hazard Awareness Program (EHAP) certification within nine months of hire.
Ability to obtain and maintain an Oregon public pesticide applicator license or pesticide consultant license within nine months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Experience as a lead or supervisor practicing employee supervision, including training, scheduling, performance evaluation and promoting a safe, equitable workplace.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations of their assigned section, ensuring efficient workflows, regulatory consistency, and high-quality customer service.
Interpret and apply ISA Best Management Practices and the City’s Tree Code across a wide range of tree-related activities in development, non-development, or compliance contexts.
Develop and implement program improvements, standard operating procedures, and innovative approaches to enhance permitting or enforcement outcomes.
Collaborate closely with the Tree Permitting Division Manager, internal city bureaus (Transportation, Water, Environmental Services, etc.), utilities, contractors, community members, and other partners to support coordinated urban forestry management.
Recruit, hire, schedule, assign work to, and supervise staff.
Manage, coach, and assess the performance of staff, promoting a safe, equitable, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
Exercise independent judgment to meet program objectives and resolve complex regulatory issues.
Research and apply complex municipal codes to develop workable solutions for applicants, stakeholders, and community members.
Analyze and generate detailed reports using database systems to support decision-making, project management, and performance tracking.
Provide clear, concise guidance to the public and partner agencies on tree regulations, permitting requirements, and compliance expectations.
Interpret site plans, architectural drawings, and other development-related documents to ensure compliance with city regulations and standards.