Arborist

This position is responsible for the care and maintenance of city trees.  Under supervision, the Arborist performs skilled and manual, often hazardous tasks such as pruning, planting and tree removal along City streets.  Work is typically performed in a team of workers.

• Prunes trees with the use of a bucket truck, log loader, knuckle boom, wood chipper or other specialized equipment.  Pruning can be structural, rotational, clean up of storm related damage or other hazards.

• Removes dead, dying or hazardous trees with the use of bucket truck, log loader, knuckle boom, wood chipper or other specialized equipment.  
• Removes stumps with the use of a stump router.   Repairs irrigation lines if damaged during stump removal. 
• Tree planting using proper tree planting specifications.
• Assists with snow removal operations as needed.   May operate a sander, loader, or motor grader. 
• Conducts daily vehicle and equipment inspections.
• Diagnoses and treats trees for pests.  Participates in annual elm firewood inspections.
• Performs related duties as assigned. 

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in forestry related work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education.

• Two or more years of previous experience in caring for trees including the operation of forestry or related equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. 
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid Class B driver’s license with air brakes and tanker endorsement issued by the State of North Dakota for the type of vehicle or equipment operated, obtained within six months of employment. 

• Knowledge of arboricultural and urban forestry practices and techniques.

• Knowledge of common tree species, their proper form and appropriate pruning requirements. 
• Knowledge of safe, proper operation and maintenance of forestry equipment such as bucket truck, log loader and wood chipper along with other tools of the trade including chainsaw and hand saw.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety procedures.
• Ability to work at heights greater than 50 feet and around numerous hazards including powerlines.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs such as ArcGIS.
• Skill in prioritizing and planning.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.  
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.

Salary : $54,431 - $61,234