Forestry Specialist

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

1. Review construction plans, specifications, contracts, etc. for compliance with codes, ordinances, zoning, etc. related to trees. 
2. Monitor and coordinate tree-planting and/or tree maintenance activities for the City of Austin. 
3. Coordinate division/section activities with other divisions/departments, public agencies, and private entities. 
4. Inspect and treat trees for diseases, parasites, etc. 
5. Confer with architects, developers, contractors, etc. to discuss tree preservation techniques. 
6. Draft/write and enforce ordinances, policies, etc. relating to arboricultural and urban forestry practices. 
7. Manage and/or coordinate specific tree programs. 
8. Answer citizen’s questions and provide assistance. 
9. Investigate consumer/citizen complaint to determine validity. 
10. Research information as needed or requested. 
11. Compile and calculate data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc

Responsibilities- Supervision and/or Leadership Exercised:

• May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training and guidance to others.

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
• Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedures.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with city employees and the public.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to train others. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Arboriculture or related field.
• Experience may substitute for the education up to the maximum of four (4) years.

Licenses or Certifications:

• Valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability and experience working independently and remotely on forest restoration, vegetation management, power equipment operations, and wildfire prevention or mitigation projects.
• Training or experience performing spatial field data collection, mapping, and data analysis using Geographic Information System software.
• Previous completion of, or ability to complete, training and physical fitness testing to the standards of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group Firefighter Type 2 including the Arduous level work capacity test. For details, click HERE
• Ability to prepare technical reports and effectively communicate project and program information to internal and external customers.
• Familiarity with native, non-native, and endangered or rare species and their habitats in the Austin area.
• Experience maintaining and operating outdoor power tools (chainsaws, line trimmers, wood chippers) and motorized equipment (farm tractors, compact loaders, all-terrain vehicles)
• Certified Arborist or ability to obtain certification.