Forestry Specialist (Austin Parks and Recreation)

Forestry Specialist

Purpose: Under general supervision, develop, monitor, and/or perform activities related to the conservation, preservation, and proliferation of trees in the City of Austin.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

1. Review construction plans, specifications, contracts, etc. for compliance with codes, ordinances, zoning, etc. related to trees.

2. Monitor and coordinate tree-planting and/or tree maintenance activities for the City of Austin.

3. Coordinate division/section activities with other divisions/departments, public agencies, and private entities.

4. Inspect and treat trees for diseases, parasites, etc.

5. Confer with architects, developers, contractors, etc. to discuss tree preservation techniques.

6. Draft/write and enforce ordinances, policies, etc. relating to arboricultural and urban forestry practices.

7. Manage and/or coordinate specific tree programs.

8. Answer citizen's questions and provide assistance.

9. Investigate consumer/citizen complaint to determine validity.

10. Research information as needed or requested.

11. Compile and calculate data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc.

Responsibilities – Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training and guidance to others.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.

• Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedures.

• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.

• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.

• Skill in using computers and related software applications.

• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with city employees and the public.

• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.

• Ability to train others.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Arboriculture, or related field.

• Experience may substitute for the education up to the maximum of four (4) years.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications/Preferred Experience:

• Experience working in the field of Municipal Forestry or Arboriculture.

• Experience performing tree risk assessments.

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to use ArcGIS mapping software or similar software.

Preferred Certifications or Licenses:

• International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist credential or the ability to acquire within six (6) months of hire.

• International Society of Arboriculture Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) or the ability to acquire within six (6) months of hire.

Other:

• Ability to travel to more than one work location.