FORESTER - GS

FORESTER - GS

The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to building a sustainable community and enhancing the quality of urban life by providing safe, well‑maintained parks and offering affordable programming for our community. We are seeking a Forester to join our Greenspace Management team. Responsibilities Inspect trees and recommend removal of dead, dying or dangerous trees and limbs to mitigate hazards. Use ArcGIS tools to collect street tree and neighborhood planting space data (for example, species, diameter, condition, work needed, location, etc.). Analyze tree inventory data to formulate comprehensive management plans to aid in proactive tree maintenance, tree planting and enforcement of ordinances for unauthorized/illegal tree removals. Inspect tree maintenance work performed by contractors to ensure satisfactory completion. Review construction plans for tree protection compliance and tree planting plans for Adopt‑An‑Esplanade, Adopt‑A‑Tree and Neighborhood programs. Participate in planning, coordinating and executing the City’s annual Arbor Day planting event. Handle inquiries from the general public, property owners and city officials. Prepare and conduct educational training with internal staff or external partners each quarter. Participate in emergency preparedness and disaster recovery planning and implementation. Assist in the design and implementation of plans and projects to improve efficiencies in the division. Ensure compliance with departmental and city‑wide policies and procedures. Provide technical advice, consultation and support to departments, agencies and groups. Provide input into developing codes, ordinances and specifications. May perform other duties as assigned. Working Conditions Routine exposures to extreme weather conditions such as heat or cold, moisture and air pollution. Periodic exposure to chemicals and minor physical trauma such as cuts, bruises and minor burns. The position occasionally requires stooping or bending and involves very light lifting up to 20 pounds. Minimum Requirements Educational Requirements A bachelor’s degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Botany or a related field is required, with at least one course in Dendrology. Experience Requirements One year of professional forestry experience is required. An associate’s degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Botany or a related field, with at least one course in Dendrology; and two years of journey‑level forestry or tree‑care maintenance experience may substitute for the bachelor’s degree requirement. License Requirements None. Preferences Preference will be given to eligible veteran applicants who possess the qualifications necessary for the duties involved in the position and to applicants who have a valid Texas driver’s license. Salary Information Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification. Pay Grade 17. EEO Statement The City of Houston is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or pregnancy. #J-18808-Ljbffr City-of-Houston,-T