Conservation Arborist

Conservation Arborist

Reports to: Director of Land Management

Supervises: Arbor Crew Supervisors

Employee Type: Full-time, Regular, Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Conservation Arborist is responsible for a wide range of duties that involve both planning and management, including the programming of tree care, selection and planting processes, and the preservation and maintenance of trees, ensuring that all processes are in accordance with the maintenance cooperation agreement between Forest Park Forever and the City of St Louis Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry.

FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:

• Develop and implement plans for tree selections, purchases, and plantings in the park.
• Direct the pruning and maintenance of trees under the care of Forest Park Forever to promote structural stability, reduce hazards, and enhance the overall health and appearance of the trees.
• Provide technical information and recommendations on capital and maintenance project design and construction.
• Provide direction to large event permittees regarding tree protection.
• Initiate and oversee tree removal and tree care contracts under the direction of Forest Park Forever.
• Conduct regular tree health assessments to identify diseases, pests, structural issues, or other problems that may affect the longevity and health of the trees under the care of Forest Park Forever.
• Collaborate with the FPF Development Department on the arboricultural aspect of the tree tribute program.
• Develop and manage tree budgets and expenditures.
• Coordinate tree-related efforts with the Horticulture Supervisor, Park Ecologist, and Horticulture Project Manager.
• Partner with the Forest Park Arboriculture Crew in coordinating the care of trees in the park, including maintaining the Forest Park Tree inventory and implementing the Tree Master Plan and the Emerald Ash Borer plan.
• Perform supervisory duties, i.e. hiring, promoting, disciplinary actions, performance reviews, etc.
• Coach and mentor direct reports.
• Recommend budgetary needs for programs, including personnel, supplies and equipment.
• Prepare budgets, maintenance records, and reports for tree care.
• Purchase and maintain inventory of arboriculture supplies and equipment.
• Coordinate activities and events with other divisions, departments, organizations, City, etc.
• Generate and present data, metrics, cost estimates and reports.
• Perform contract management duties, i.e. draft, write, manage and coordinate contracts.

POSITION QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Forestry, or related field. Equivalent job experience will be considered.
• Minimum 3 years of related experience.
• Working knowledge of ArcGIS to coordinate and manage tree inventory.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Outlook & Office suite (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).
• Strong knowledge of arboriculture methods, inventory system management, urban forest ecosystems, and tree protection techniques.
• Strong knowledge of tools, materials, and practices of arboriculture.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

LICENSE(S)/CERTIFICATION(S) REQUIRED: 

• Valid driver’s license.
• International Society of Arborist certification or the ability to obtain within 6 months.

PHYSICAL WORK REQUIREMENTS/WORK CONDITIONS:

• Constantly required to traverse the park over uneven terrain.
• Ability to hear, understand, and follow oral instructions over radio, telephone, or in-person.
• Frequently communicates critical information to varying audiences.
• Frequently works in outdoor environments, including varying, inclement weather conditions.
• Frequently operates computers and other office equipment.
• Frequently moves materials weighing up to fifty (50) pounds; occasionally moves materials and equipment weighing more than eighty (80) pounds.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.  Employees will be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws.

Forest Park Forever is an equal opportunity employer and maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with state regulations.