Community Urban Forester

The Community Urban Forester uses canopy and plantable areas maps created by GIC’s GIS team to help communities plan to restore urban forests and build resiliency. They work with local governments and community groups to help them recognize the location and values of urban forests. They assist the public at workshops to learn about their urban canopy and help communities establish goals for forest cover and create urban forestry master plans and plant trees. The position requires coordinating work flows amongst multiple city projects. Most importantly, this position involves extensive community engagement and requires competency in public speaking, and strong communications skills to lead community discussions, tree planting events or workshops. It also includes organizing tree planting events, planting trees, surveying trees to detect pests or disease and determine a course of action to address tree needs. Experience in pruning is preferred as well.

Degrees and Experience: Bachelor of Science degree and two to three years’ experience in one or more of the following fields: forestry, horticulture, or landscape ecology or landscape architecture. A Master’s degree in urban forestry or horticulture is preferred, but not required. Experience may be substituted for master’s degree, but applicants should be familiar with trees in South Carolina. ISA Arborist certification is desired, but may be obtained within the first two years of employment at GIC. GIC will support the obtaining of licensure.

Computer Mapping and Design Skills: Basic skills in MS office suite required (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Skills using Adobe Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, Editor) to create attractive graphics are preferred.

Communications: Strong oral communication for teaching about trees at workshops and meetings and working with laypersons and community members. Applicant must be comfortable leading volunteers in tree planting events.

Logistical: Work location within state is flexible but position requires travel to cities, to planting sites and hosting workshops, two or more times per week to sites within state. Travel is usually planned far in advance and is fully covered. Some overnight travel is required (all travel expenses paid for by GIC). Position offers diverse experiences with no week exactly the same – ideal for people who like challenges and change!

Physical: This position requires physical activity to hike over rough terrain, plant trees (saplings and 1-2” caliper trees) and working upright for 8 hours at a time. Employee should be able to lift 40 pounds.
Compensation: Salary Range: $60,000 to $70,000 based on experience and level of education. Includes benefits package and flexible work locations.