Urban Forester

Charlotte, County of • Fl 33953, FL

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Join our Parks & Natural Resources team as an Urban Forester and play a vital role in creating a greener, safer, and more resilient community. This position combines hands-on fieldwork with technical expertise to restore, expand, and protect our urban canopy in a unique coastal environment. From hurricane preparedness and storm recovery to long-term sustainability initiatives, you’ll help ensure our parks, streetscapes, and natural spaces thrive for generations to come. If you’re passionate about environmental stewardship, community impact, and building resilient landscapes, this is an opportunity to make a lasting difference every day.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license.
• ArcGIS Fundamentals certification (within twelve months of assignment).
• ISA Certified Urban Forest Professional certification (within twelve months of assignment).
• Knowledge of departmental policies, plans, and procedures.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, plans, and procedures.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other job-related computer programs and software applications.
• Knowledge of Florida’s native ecosystems including tree species, pests, disease, planting mixtures and fertilization requirements.
• Knowledge of principles and practices related to urban forestry including tree planting, care and removal.
• Strong analytical and research skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills to include public speaking.
• Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.
• Skill in the use of office equipment such as a computer, multi-line telephone system, scanner, fax machine, and copier.
• Ability to identify common and listed plant species, vegetation communities, and wetlands.
• Ability to analyze and interpret departmental functions, procedures and policies.
• Ability to interpret and use aerial photography, GIS, road maps, etc.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks with multiple deadlines.
• Ability to make recommendations and to use resourcefulness and tact in solving new problems.
• Ability to ascertain priorities and meet deadlines and objectives.
• Ability to develop effective proposals.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle.
• Ability to traverse about a variety of environments and obstacles.
• Ability to effectively and safely utilize hand tools and power tools including but not limited to machete, knife, hammer, saw, chainsaw and/or pole saw.
• Ability to provide internal/external guidance and customer assistance via all forms of communication.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and reports.
• Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and/or accounting purposes.
• Ability to author reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to establish and effective working relationships with managers, service providers, other employees, and the general public.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Forestry, Arboriculture, Natural sciences, or Ecology.
• One (1) year of experience in urban forestry, environmental conservation or natural resource management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee canopy assessment and GIS-based tree inventory programs.
• Develop hazardous tree mitigation strategies focused on hurricane readiness and public safety.
• Coordinate invasive species monitoring and habitat management efforts.
• Work closely with contractors, grant-funded projects, and community partners to advance sustainable tree integration across County projects.
• Serve as a key educator and advocate for urban forestry through public outreach, presentations, and collaboration with agencies dedicated to protecting Florida’s natural resources.

Benefits

• All positions are subject to emergency activation.
• All positions may be subject to drug testing in accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Program and/or County policy.
• All County employees are required to work before, during, or after an emergency as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level