Forester

This is a responsible level of skilled work in the care, trimming, spraying, planting and removal of trees.

Work involves participation in the general maintenance of municipal shade and park trees. Work involves responsibility for performing a variety of skilled tasks, including the climbing of trees and work at considerable heights and the operation of power equipment and an aerial bucket truck used in the trimming and removal of trees. The work at considerable heights requires above-average awareness of the necessary safety precautions. Work includes a variety of assignments on the ground, on equipment, and in the trees. Job includes the total administration of the Division including planning fiscal scheduling and supervision of manpower and other duties as required. Work is performed with considerable independence, subject to limited review through incidental inspections of jobs completed, and through job reports prepared.

• Trims and removes trees; operates chain saws in raising of tree lines; removes diseased limbs and bark; operates chippers while disposing of removed limbs, leaves, and related debris; uses a stumper to remove stumps; prunes and feeds trees.

• Climbs trees with safety equipment such as saddles with rope ties; operates a chain saw to remove diseased limbs; enters alleys and trims shade trees blocking view and access; trims hedges and trees blocking adequate sight distance triangles; cuts logs.

• Operates an aerial bucket to reach limbs at substantial heights; sprays trees; inspects trees for disease; removes parasites.

• Answers emergency and trouble calls on a 24 hour basis by removing damaged limbs during stormy and hazardous weather; responds to citizen complaints.

• Assists in snow removal and leaf pick-up; maintains equipment used for proper working order; may serve as Forestry Supervisor in that employee’s absence; may carry work orders and supervise work activities.

• Assists in preparation and recommendations for forestry division budget; shall supervise and assist in the training of subordinates; performs related assignments through the City as required.

Graduation from high school; experience in tree trimming and removal work; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that would provide the following knowledge, abilities and skills.

Desirable knowledge, abilities and skills:

• Knowledge of the standard methods, materials, tools, equipment and practices used in trimming and maintaining trees.

• Knowledge of the types of insecticides and pesticides used in tree spraying and of standard work methods and techniques employed in the spraying of trees.

• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the trade.

• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

• Sufficient physical strength and freedom from disabling defects permitting the climbing of trees and performing of work at considerable heights.

• Skill in the climbing of trees and in the use of standard tools and equipment of the trade.

Special Requirement:

• Possession or ability to secure a valid Illinois Urban Pesticide Applications License.

• Possession and maintenance of a valid Illinois Class B Commercial Drivers License with airbrake endorsement