Arborist Apprentice

Forestry Groundsman (Arborist Apprentice)

Location: 4550 126th Avenue North, Clearwater, FL

Work Schedule: Monday - Thursday 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Considering a new opportunity? Public Work's Stormwater and Vegetation Division is looking for a Forestry Groundsman.

The Forestry Groundsman (Arborist Apprentice) is an entry-level role in the Urban Forestry operational team. This role involves both ground and aerial operations in various environments, such as county parks/preserves, rights-of-way, and other grounds. The Apprentice will engage in various tasks, including pruning, cutting, and removing trees, branches, and stumps. Under the guidance of the Arborist 1 and 2, the Apprentice is expected to learn and develop effective strategies to address tree-related issues while performing duties involving the hazards of climbing trees and using aerial lifts/bucket trucks. The Arborist Apprentice reports to an Arborist 2 or designee.

What Would You Do?

• Assists in both ground and aerial operations, including climbing trees and using aerial lifts, employing powered cutting tools to remove branches that are broken, dead, or present a hazard.
• Supports in the development and implementation of tree care plans, including pruning and removal, especially in tight spaces and along busy roadways,.
• Contributes to the health and safety of the urban forest by trimming trees obstructing visibility or presenting danger and clearing brush from designated areas.
• Assists in operating a variety of heavy machinery, such as boom and bucket trucks, tractors, mechanical chippers, and stumpers, under supervision.
• Performs routine servicing and preventative maintenance work on power tools, machinery, and equipment.
• Performs general maintenance and landscaping work as required, contributing to the overall aesthetics and safety of public spaces.
• Assists in the identification of a wide range of tree-related issues and helps develop effective plans to solve them.
• Assists in the setup and break down of traffic control devices such as signs and cones.
• Performs other related job duties as assigned.

What Do You Need To Have?

• One (1) year of experience in arboriculture, landscaping, grounds maintenance, or directly related occupation; or
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
• Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida Driver's License upon hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report.
• Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida CDL Class B Commercial Driver's License within 6 months of months of hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report.
• Assignment to work a variety of work schedules, including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.
• Candidate may be required to obtain and maintain certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) as a Certified Arborist.
• Candidate to demonstrate proficiency, competency, and satisfactory completion of regularly assigned work in an independent manner. Appointing Authority retains the discretion to employ an incumbent at this level or advance the incumbent non-competitively or competitively after a candidate meets the minimum qualifications to an in-line career ladder position within the same organization or department.
• Other highly desirable knowledge, skills, abilities, and credentials relevant to a position

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic Knowledge of standard methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in arboriculture operations, including the use of saws and other tools.
• Introductory understanding of tree biology, soils, fungi, pest identification, wood anatomy, wood decay, species identification, species profiles, and green log weights.
• Ability to work under the supervision and learn from the Arborist 1 and 2.
• Ability to assist in developing and implementing work plans for tree care, including pruning and removal.
• Ability to communicate effectively with citizens, explaining work objectives in a courteous, confident, and tactful manner.

Our benefits rank among the top in the area!

• Looking for a strong retirement? We have you covered as members of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) with investment and pension options.
• We have deferred compensation programs and wellness centers to name a few perks. Check out these and more!

Want To Learn More?

Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands and Working Conditions at the below link.


Arborist Apprentice