Urban Forester

City of Glendale•Glendale, CA

About The Position

Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Public Works, this mid-management position supervises an urban forestry management program designed to optimize the health, beauty and safety of parkway trees for the public through proper planning, planting, maintenance and care. Ensures Department services are provided with exceptional customer service and the highest level of ethical standards. Plans, organizes, trains, directs and evaluates the work of personnel engaged in the planting, care and related maintenance activities required to nurture and maintain a healthy and thriving urban forest. Reviews and evaluates employees' job performance and effectively recommends personnel action. Plans, develops, institutes and evaluates programs related to the urban forestry management program. Reviews proposed development plans and records to evaluate parkway tree planting proposals in relationship to departmental policies, City ordinances and regulations. Handles unusual or difficult citizen complaints, checks time and materials expended and prepares reports. Prepares and submits budget reports anticipating equipment, materials and personnel needs. Maintains appropriate records and develops policies related to the urban forestry program. Manages tree maintenance contracts. Reviews tree removal and planting permits for approval recommendation. Interacts with other City departments in the development of tree related projects. May assume responsibilities of Assistant Director of Public Works in his/her absence. May have the opportunity to participate in related divisional cross-training efforts. Experience and qualifications gained in this cross training may apply towards promotional opportunities and transfers. Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of this position are performed in a safe, efficient manner. Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.

Requirements

Four years experience in the direction and supervision of tree planting, maintenance and removal operations.
Bachelor's Degree in forestry, horticulture or a related field.
Valid California Class C driver's license.
Possession and maintenance of "Certified Arborist" designation with the International Society of Arboriculture.
Knowledge of commonly used software programs such as MS Word and Excel.
Knowledge of methods, equipment, tools and safety practices of tree planting, maintenance and removal.
Knowledge of principles and practices of modern arboriculture of forestry used in park and street tree programs.
Skill in use of a personal computer.
Ability to provide exceptional customer service to all employees and vendors.
Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with the public.
Ability to develop necessary skills from on-the-job training and meet standards of performance for the classification by the end of the probationary period.
Ability to effectively supervise subordinates.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, other employees and the general public.
Ability to foster a teamwork environment.
Ability to model and practice the highest standards of ethical conduct.
Ability to plan and prioritize assignments.
Ability to read, write and comprehend directions in English.
Ability to review and evaluate employees' job performance.

Nice To Haves

Willingness to work necessary hours and times to accomplish goals, objectives and required tasks in a timely manner.
Willingness to initiate, recommend, and carry out personnel actions.
Willingness to assume responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment.

Responsibilities

Ensures Department services are provided with exceptional customer service and the highest level of ethical standards.
Plans, organizes, trains, directs and evaluates the work of personnel engaged in the planting, care and related maintenance activities required to nurture and maintain a healthy and thriving urban forest.
Reviews and evaluates employees' job performance and effectively recommends personnel action.
Plans, develops, institutes and evaluates programs related to the urban forestry management program.
Reviews proposed development plans and records to evaluate parkway tree planting proposals in relationship to departmental policies, City ordinances and regulations.
Handles unusual or difficult citizen complaints, checks time and materials expended and prepares reports.
Prepares and submits budget reports anticipating equipment, materials and personnel needs.
Maintains appropriate records and develops policies related to the urban forestry program.
Manages tree maintenance contracts.
Reviews tree removal and planting permits for approval recommendation.
Interacts with other City departments in the development of tree related projects.
May assume responsibilities of Assistant Director of Public Works in his/her absence.
May have the opportunity to participate in related divisional cross-training efforts.
Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of this position are performed in a safe, efficient manner.
Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.