Forestry Crew Member

Job Title

Forestry Crew Member

Job Description

The Forestry Crew Member assists with the establishment, maintenance, and ongoing care of Norwalk's growing urban forest, with an emphasis on tree care and community-based environmental work within underserved neighborhoods identified through the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST). This position is part of the City's Tree Stewardship Crew, a seasonal field crew established through grant funding to support the city's urban forestry initiatives. Crew members will perform a variety of field tasks including tree watering, mulching, pruning, planting, invasive species management, and general stewardship activities. The position also supports volunteer events, community engagement initiatives, and educational efforts related to tree stewardship and environmental sustainability. This is a full-time, hands-on, outdoor position requiring the ability to complete field work safely in varying weather conditions and terrain.

General Duties:

• Water, mulch, prune, and maintain newly planted and established trees throughout public spaces and neighborhood planting sites
• Assist with tree planting operations including field surveys, site preparation, planting, staking, mulching, and post-planting care
• Assist with monitoring tree health and identifying maintenance needs including damage, pests, disease, or environmental stress
• Utilize the city's tree inventory software to track tree plantings, work orders and maintenance activities
• Assist with administrative and project coordination tasks including responding to resident inquiries, maintaining records and databases, and supporting the planning and implementation of urban forestry and stewardship projects
• Support volunteer workdays, community events, educational programs, and public outreach initiatives
• Safely operate hand tools, power tools, watering equipment, and municipal vehicles as assigned
• Follow safe work practices and proper arboricultural and horticultural standards while performing field work

Supervisor: Receives general direction from the Arborist/Horticulturist and/or their designee. Note: The above tasks and responsibilities are illustrative only. This description does not include every task or responsibility.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to navigate uneven terrain and work in parks, roadside areas, and naturalized spaces
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain.
• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a small field crew.
• Must hold a valid driver's license in good standing and have the ability to safely operate municipal vehicles, including vehicles towing trailers and water tanks.
• Must pass a background check

Minimum Qualifications

• Two (2) or more years of experience in arboriculture, horticulture, landscaping, forestry, or related outdoor field work
• Bachelor's degree in forestry, horticulture, environmental science, or related field.

A comparable combination of education, training, and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications at the discretion of the City.

Special Licenses/Certifications AND/OR Supplemental Information

• Safely lift and frequently move up to 50 pounds
• Stand, walk, bend, kneel, and work outdoors for extended periods of time
• Must hold a valid driver's license in good standing and have the ability to safely operate municipal vehicles, including vehicles towing trailers and water tanks.

This position is classified as a grant-funded, limited-duration full-time position under Local 2405 Grant Employees. The position is expected to end in June 2028, or earlier depending on funding availability, program needs, and approval by the City. Employment in this position does not guarantee continued employment beyond the grant or project period.

The City of Norwalk is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employeer

The City of Norwalk provides an outstanding benefits package including a Managed Health Care Program, Life Insurance, Dental Coverage, Deferred Compensation Plan, Vacation, Holiday and Sick Time.