Utility Forester

Clear Path Utility Solutions, LLC•Town of Watertown, NY

About The Position

Clear Path Utility Solutions plays a critical leadership role bridging construction companies and vegetation field services. We provide advanced emergency and non‑emergency vegetation management expertise to help utility companies assess, plan, and execute complex field projects. From construction management to emergency response, our Vegetation Management professionals deliver hands-on strategy, project oversight, and quality control services to optimize evolving utility projects. We are currently seeking full‑time Certified Arborists / Utility Foresters with transmission line experience to support our East Coast Vegetation Management Division throughout the Central New York region. Our Arborists are responsible for conducting tree inspections, identifying and flagging hazardous trees, and delivering expert recommendations on tree and vegetation management. Candidates must be ISA Certified (or similar), TRAQ qualified (preferred), and proficient in evaluating fire‑damaged or hazard‑prone trees. When not supporting Hazard Tree Assessment Strike Teams, Arborists may perform additional vegetation assessment and field consulting duties.

Requirements

Authorized to work in the United States
Certified Arborist (ISA, ASCA, or Certified/Degreed Forester)
Licensed, registered, and/or certified in Vegetation Management, Forestry, or Arboriculture
Transmission utility vegetation management experience required
Proficiency with GIS applications (Arc Collector, Fulcrum, etc.)
Strong organizational and time‑management skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail
Proficient use of technology (cell phone, tablet, apps, GPS, Microsoft Office Suite, range finders)
Willingness to travel as needed
Ability to read and interpret maps
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to work and hike in rugged terrain and inclement weather
Ability to work long hours (50+ hours/week) on your feet
Ability to respond professionally to public and contractor questions
Proactive commitment to maintaining a safe work environment
Five (5+) years as a Certified Arborist (ISA, ASCA, or degreed Forester)
Proven professional arborist field experience
Proficient in tree identification and diagnostic assessment
Strong knowledge of safe work practices and procedures
Experience using tree care and evaluation equipment (chainsaws, chippers, aerial lifts, etc.)
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
Demonstrated physical fitness and ability to work in all weather conditions

Nice To Haves

Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ) preferred
Current CPR/First Aid/AED certification a plus

Responsibilities

Uphold and promote SAFETY protocols at all times
Perform vegetation and hazard tree inspections along utility transmission corridors
Identify, flag, document, and communicate hazardous trees
Provide expert recommendations on vegetation and tree management
Coordinate daily vegetation operations with field and operational leaders
Submit accurate documentation and field findings to vegetation management leadership
Communicate effectively with utility clients, the public, and internal team members
Mentor, train, and support junior field staff
Execute all additional duties required to meet project deadlines and performance goals