What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forestry Technician position at City of Minnetonka?
The Forestry Technician supports the City’s Natural Resources Division by assisting with plant pest management, public tree inspections, reforestation projects, tree maintenance activities, and community education. This position provides technical guidance and excellent customer service to residents and City staff, coordinates forestry activities, mentors seasonal employees, and utilizes GIS and asset management software to track, analyze, and report on the City’s community forest. Work is performed under the direction of the City Forester.Essential Job Duties:
- Lead tree inspections by identifying tree species and pests; mentor and guide seasonal inspection staff.
- Assist with the City’s Plant Pest Program, including documentation, reporting, and communication with property owners.
- Inspect and manage public trees along streets and in parks; respond to safety concerns and coordinate and carry out maintenance, pruning, and removals.
- Support tree care operations with staff, including planting, pruning, watering, mulching, spraying, and removals.
- Contribute to the City’s reforestation efforts by selecting planting sites and species, ordering stock, and leading/coordinating crews or volunteers.
- Oversees the City’s annual Tree Sale, including ordering, online setup, and event coordination.
- Assists with coordinating contractor services for stump grinding, pruning, removals, and tree treatments.
- Use GIS and asset management software to update the tree inventory, track work activities, analyze data, and prepare reports to support forestry planning and decision-making.
- Assist with community forestry programs such as Arbor Day events and maintaining Tree City USA status, or other specialty grant projects.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Associate’s degree in forestry, horticulture, natural resources, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Valid Minnesota driver’s license.
- Demonstrated experience identifying tree species and plant pests.
- MN DNR Certified Tree Inspector (or ability to obtain within one month).
- ISA Certified Arborist (or ability to obtain within one year).
- Bachelor’s degree in forestry, horticulture, natural resources, or related field.
- Experience using GIS and/or asset management software for data collection, mapping, and reporting.
- Experience with hands-on tree maintenance activities
- Knowledge of tree species, pests, urban forestry practices, tree care, and arboricultural equipment and safety.
- Excellent customer service
- Familiarity with relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
- Proficiency with GIS, asset management software, Microsoft Office, and forestry-related applications.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, including the ability to interpret maps, drawings, and data.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively, lead seasonal staff, and effectively engage with residents, contractors, and City staff.
| Tentative Recruitment Schedule (dates are subject to change) | |
| Posting Date: | 10/6 |
| Closing Date: | 10/26 |
| Review Applications: | Week of 10/27 |
| Round 1 Interviews | Week of 11/10 |
| Round 2 Interviews | Week of 11/17 |
| Offer & Start Backgrounds: | Week of 11/24 |
| Tentative Start Date: | Mid-December/January |
Salary : $38 - $45
