ARBORIST

Salary : $45,739.20 - $50,419.20 Annually
Location : Parks and Recreation, 1700 River Dr N, Great Falls, MT
Job Type: Regular Full Time
Job Number: 25-00118
Department: Parks and Recreation
Division: Natural Resources
Opening Date: 12/15/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Union Classification: Crafts Council - Laborers Union


NATURE OF WORK
Professional responsibility for performing work activities related to the city's urban forestry, natural resource and beautification programs. Work is performed under the general direction of the City Forester the Forestry Foreman or other Senior Arborist.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF WORK

• Performs tree maintenance, transplanting and removal using various specialized equipment and tools.
• Performs maintenance of various equipment to avoid malfunctions and ensure equipment safety.
• Responds to emergency storm clean-up situations and operates equipment and tools as necessary.
• Performs the installation of trees and shrubs as part of city landscape designs.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Must be a minimum of 18 years old.
• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years of experience in forestry, natural resource management or equivalent related experience desirable.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be able to pass background check.
• Must be able to preform tree work at heights of 50 -60 feet above ground level.
• Possession of a valid Montana Class B Commercial Driver's License with Air Brake Endorsement or the ability to obtain one within 6 months of employment.

**As of January 6, 2020, employers of CDL drivers must query the Clearinghouse to verify that a current or prospective driver is not prohibited from operating Commercial Motor Vehicles or performing other safety sensitive functions. CDL Drivers must now be registered with the FMCSA Clearinghouse. For more information, please visit the website at

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

• Working knowledge of Arboricultural standards and practices.
• Working knowledge of pesticides and proper mixing and application procedures and safety requirements.
• Working knowledge of all phases of tree trimming, removal, planting and maintenance.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, supervisors, and the general public.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Teamwork
• Thoroughness
• Even Temperament
• Safety Minded

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position does not supervise staff but provides technical guidance and work review for staff assigned to their crew.
WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed primarily outdoors. Exposure to heat, snow, rain, wind, loud noise, heights, falling limbs and dust is frequent.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, climb, kneel, twist, grasp, pick, pinch, bend, crawl, push, pull, reach, ride and perform similar body movements. Must have the ability to perform heavy physical work and to lift and carry up to 50 pounds at a time. When lifting more than 50 pounds employees are encouraged to use two man lift; the possession of hand/eye coordination sufficient to operate forestry equipment, and a motor vehicle; the ability to talkand hear in person, by telephone or two-way radio; and the ability to see and read instructions and reports.
EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

The work schedule is a 40-hour work week, Sunday through Saturday. Work is typically performed Monday through Friday. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime. Any overtime must be authorized prior to working.
TRAVEL

Travel is primarily local during the business day. Occasional travel may be required to attend off-site training and educational opportunities.
Full-time Employee Benefits

The City of Great Falls offers a complete benefits package to our full-time employee including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement/pensions, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The City offers life and long term disability insurance to all full-time non-union employees. Union employees receive longevity pay. Optional plans are available for employees, flexible spending account, and 457 deferred compensation accounts.

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