Apprentice Municipal Worker-Forestry

This is an apprentice level position with a focus in forestry while also assisting in the winter maintenance programs. Employees in this class are primarily responsible for skilled pruning, removal, and planting of trees. Employees in the Forestry Focus area report to the Forestry Supervisor who will plan and distribute work, assist in training of employees and verify work is completed effectively in a timely manner.

Examples of Duties

• Operates a wide variety of specialized equipment including aerial lifts, wood, chippers, chainsaws, pruners and related mechanical equipment.
• Removes dead branches, tree stumps, and performs stump grinding.
• Maintains regular care of trees by trimming and/or removing limbs or branches.
• Hauls logs and debris from City owned property; and right of way.
• Sets up holiday tree displays.
• Works with Public Services staff to learn operation and maintenance procedures.
• Operates trucks in carrying tools, equipment, parts, and materials/supplies to and from a job site.
• Performs minor equipment repairs.
• Uses handheld computers, preparing simple work reports.
• Places barricades and traffic delineators.

Essential Qualifications

• Experience in tree removal, pruning and planting.
• Experience working near structures and over obstacles in addition to working under and along electric transmission lines/
• Working knowledge of occupational hazards and related safety practices;
• Ability to make minor repairs.
• Must have good oral and written communication skills with the ability to understand and carry out instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public.
• Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of Public Services Department activities.
• Must be able to lift, push, and pull 90 pounds periodically.
• Must have the ability and skills necessary to complete the apprenticeship.
• Must obtain a Commercial Pesticide License and CPR training certificate within one year of appointment.
• Certified Arborist Certification is required to move to the highest classification within this focus group.
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator;s license and certified driver's license (CDL) with "B" endorsement with air brakes preferred or the ability to obtain within the first six (6) months of employment.
• Completion of a High school diploma or GED.;
• Or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides essential knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Must be able and willing to work on-call shifts, overnight shifts and weekend shifts as needed and as determined by the Public Services Department.
• Must be able to work is the United States without organizational sponsorship, both now and in the future.

Acceptable Training and Experience

The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged. Studies have shown that women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the qualifications listed. The City of Kalamazoo is most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. If you have transferable experience, please tell us about it. This approach will give each current and potential employee the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to the City of Kalamazoo.

The City of Kalamazoo offers competitive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, group life insurance, long and short-term disability, paid time off, a defined benefits pension plan, a 457 deferred compensation plan, and a retirement health care savings plan (HCSP). Benefits vary based on the bargaining unit of a position.

The City of Kalamazoo also operates a convenient health clinic that is open to employees, retirees, and their families and provides routine medical services and prescriptions.

For a summary of City of Kalamazoo benefits in AFSCME positions, please visit our website: www.kalamazoocity.org/benefits

Please note: These benefits are subject to change.