What are the responsibilities and job description for the Arborist position at Vanderbilt University?
The Arborist Journeyman is part of Vanderbilt University Maintenance and Operations (VUMO) and is a key individual responsible for maintain the trees on campus. This individual will be responsible for climbing trees to trim and prune across Vanderbilt campus and disease diagnosis. Reporting directly to the Facilities & Grounds Service Manager. This individual must be able to work in all conditions.
VUMO provides facilities support for all construction, renovation, and routine maintenance of University Central space and facilities; housekeeping services for approximately 5.8 million square feet of academic, administrative, residential, and recreational space; grounds care for 330 acres that are a registered arboretum; turf care for athletic fields; and utilities for the University Central and the Medical Center.
Facilities annual budget exceeds $100 million in operating expenses and includes over 400 employees.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
Cut away dead and excess branches from trees, using handsaws, pruning hooks, sheers and clippers
Climb trees, using climbing rope, hooks and belts, or climbs ladders to gain access to work area
Prune, cut down, fertilize, and spray trees as directed
Scrape decayed matter from cavities in trees and fill holes to promote healing and to prevent further deterioration
Perform general maintenance such as feeding chipper, raking leaves/limbs, sweeping debris, driving chipper truck and small tractor, picking up trash, planting flowers
Prune shrubs and hedges as required
Operate truck-mounted hydraulic lifts, pruners, power saw, and power pruner
Climb trees using climbing hooks and belts, or by climbing ladders
Mixing and application of herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, and fungicides
Storm damage clean-up
Perform other related tasks as required
Additional Information
This is a full-time position: 40 hours per week. Candidates must be available to work 7am – 3.30pm, Monday – Friday and have availability to work out of hours in the case of emergencies.
Education and Certifications:
High School Diploma or GED is required
ISA Arborist Certification is preferred
Experience and Skills:
Three years of experience
Working in Higher Ed is preferred
Valid Driver License is required; must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records
Salary : $100