Full Time Tree Maintenance Worker 1

Under direction, performs semi-skilled and manual work to assist in pruning, feeding, bracing, repairing, spraying, fertilizing, removing and transplanting trees and shrubs; learns to climb trees using a ladder, climbing hooks and belts, and other manual or mechanical equipment used to aid in performing tree maintenance tasks. Learns to climb trees using individual climbing gear and remove dead or diseased limbs, top trees, or work from a vertical lift truck when climbing is unsafe. Performs semi-skilled and manual tasks to assist with pruning, feeding, bracing, repairing, spraying, fertilizing, removing, transplanting, and planting trees and shrubs, including digging, backfilling, watering, and bracing. Uses pole shears, saws, axes, chain saws, and other cutting tools to prune, trim, top, and remove hazardous or storm-damaged limbs in accordance with established industry guidelines; cuts and sizes limbs; feeds branches into chippers; and operates chainsaws, motorized winches, stump grinders, chippers, and various hand tools. Assists with installing guying and bracing, uses ropes and rigging systems to safely remove branches, and bags and transplants trees and shrubs. Mixes pre-measured chemicals according to specific directions to spray or dust trees and shrubs for pest and disease control and fertilizes trees using appropriate methods and equipment. Performs minor maintenance on tools and equipment; may operate motor vehicles and light construction equipment on a limited basis; carries out grounds maintenance tasks such as seeding, sodding, brush cutting, mowing, loading and unloading refuse, and snow removal; and learns to utilize electronic, manual, and computerized recording and information systems used by the agency or related units.

Knowledge of established industry standards for forestry methods and tree care; current NJDOT guidelines for traffic control when working within public rights-of-way; and the required precautions and safe work practices for climbing, topping, pruning, felling, and lowering trees and limbs, as well as operating motorized hand equipment. Additionally, possesses knowledge of the safety procedures necessary when working around high- and low-voltage energized power lines while assigned to an electric utility unit.

Ability to climb trees using ladders, climbing hooks, belts, or other equipment; work at heights exceeding 30 feet while suspended from climbing gear or operating from a lift truck; and observe all required safety precautions, including those related to working around high- and low-voltage energized power lines when assigned to an electric utility unit. Able to learn and operate chain saws, stump grinders, chippers, handsaws, axes, wedges, and other power and hand tools; tie essential knots; and set up routine rigging, hoists, blocks, and tackle used in tree maintenance operations. Capable of performing mechanical and manual tasks, lifting, pushing, and pulling heavy objects for short distances, and understanding, remembering, and carrying out oral instructions. Learns quickly through verbal direction and demonstration and
is able to utilize various electronic and manual recording and information systems used by the agency or related units. Ability to read, write, understand and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.

Requirements:

Note: This is a union, Civil Service position offering full County benefits.

License: A valid New Jersey driver’s license is required when vehicle operation is necessary to perform essential job duties. Appointees may be required to possess a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and applicable endorsements for the class and type of vehicle being operated. Appointees may be required to obtain a Pesticide Applicator Certification issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

NJ residency and possession of a NJ Driver’s License is required. County residency is preferred.

To Apply For This Position:

If you qualify and would like to be considered, submit a letter of interest and your resume (including daytime phone number and email address) to the email address listed below. You must submit your response by the closing date shown above and indicate the job title in the subject line.

Email: Natacha Moore, natacham@passaiccountynj.org

Newly hired employees must agree to a thorough background check that may include fingerprinting. Any appointments made from posting which involve movement between unit scopes, may result in a forfeiture of rights to any promotional list in a former unit scope. As of September 2010, in accordance with N.J.S.A 52:14-7, the “New Jersey First Act,” all new employees must reside in the State of New Jersey, unless exempted under the law. If you do not live in New Jersey, you have one year after you begin employment to relocate your residence to New Jersey or secure an exemption.