What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant City Arborist position at City of Wilmington?
One City. One team. One mission.
Do you want to make a direct impact on the health of the urban forest and public safety by managing trees along City streets, sidewalks, parks, and rights-of-way?
We are looking for an Assistant City Arborist to oversee the management and operations of the Forestry program within the Landscape Maintenance Division. Responsibilities include supervising tree crews; inspecting, prioritizing, and coordinating tree maintenance and removal work in response to citizen requests and identified safety concerns; and ensuring the health and safety of trees located within City rights-of-way, streets, and parks. The position is responsible for conducting tree inspections, maintaining accurate tree inventory and work records through computerized systems, monitoring the quality and safety of crew activities, and responding to citizen inquiries. Additional duties include coordinating with contractors and other City departments on special projects, supporting emergency response operations, procuring equipment and supplies, and assisting with budget planning and development.
The work environment is dynamic and team-oriented, combining outdoor, administrative, and project-based responsibilities. Staff support one another daily through shared problem-solving, cross-training, and open communication.
Career development is a core part of the department philosophy. Advancement pathways, cross-department collaboration opportunities, and skill-based growth allow team members to continually develop. Access to professional workshops, certifications, and industry training ensures employees can confidently build a long-term career with the City.
Please note: City Council has approved a Living Wage increase, and the salary shown in this posting will take effect beginning July 1
- Supervises tree crew in performing their work by overseeing work completed, implementing hiring and termination decisions, delegating work to afterhours crews, prioritizing work, establishing work schedules, and participating in after-hours on-call program.
- Responds to customer inquiries and complaints by seeking resolution to issues and enters emergency requests into database.
- Assists with budget preparation; purchases tools, supplies, and equipment; and maintains proper resource allocations.
- Responds to emergency tree calls and special projects by investigating and completing emergency tree calls, overseeing contractors, and working with other departments and outside organizations on special projects as needed.
- Assists with development of tree planting plans
- Associate’s degree and three years of relevant and progressively responsible experience in tree, landscape, or natural resources management; High School Diploma and five years of relevant progressively responsible experience in tree, landscape, or natural resources management; or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training to sufficiently perform the essential functions of the position.
- Class B CDL
- ISA Certified Arborist credential required.
- ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) or ability to obtain within one year.
- Knowledge of federal, state and local policies, procedures and codes, operational hazards and necessary precautions applicable to arboricultural practices.
- Ability to plan, organize, direct and coordinate the work of technical personnel.
- Skilled in utilizing communication and interpersonal skills applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisors, the general public and others to sufficiently exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.