Urban Forester (Urban Forestry)

Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Public Works, this mid-management position supervises an urban forestry management program designed to optimize the health, beauty and safety of parkway trees for the public through proper planning, planting, maintenance and care.

Essential functions of the job include, but are not limited to, the following:
Plans, organizes, trains, directs and evaluates the work of personnel engaged in the planting, care and related maintenance activities required to nurture and maintain a healthy and thriving urban forest.  Reviews and evaluates employees' job performance and effectively recommends personnel action.

Plans, develops, institutes and evaluates programs related to the urban forestry management program.  Reviews proposed development plans and records to evaluate parkway tree planting proposals in relationship to departmental policies, City ordinances and regulations.  

Handles unusual or difficult citizen complaints, checks time and materials expended and prepares reports.  Prepares and submits budget reports anticipating equipment, materials and personnel needs.  Maintains appropriate records and develops policies related to the urban forestry program.

Manages tree maintenance contracts.  Reviews tree removal and planting permits for approval recommendation.  Interacts with other City departments in the development of tree related projects.

May assume responsibilities of Maintenance Services Administrator in his/her absence.

May have the opportunity to participate in related divisional cross-training efforts. Experience and qualifications gained in this cross training may apply towards promotional opportunities and transfers.

Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of this position are performed in a safe, efficient manner.

Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of:
Commonly used software programs such as MS Word and Excel.
Methods, equipment, tools and safety practices of tree planting, maintenance and removal.
Principles and practices of modern arboriculture of forestry used in park and street tree programs.

Skill in:
Use of a personal computer.

Ability to:
Deal courteously and tactfully with the public.
Effectively supervise subordinates.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, other employees and the general public.
Foster a teamwork environment.
Plan and prioritize assignments.
Read, write and comprehend directions in English.
Review and evaluate employees' job performance.

Other Characteristics
Willingness to:
Work overtime as requested.
Assume responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment.
Initiate, recommend and carry out personnel actions.

Experience
Four years experience in the direction and supervision of tree planting, maintenance and removal operations.

Education/Training
Bachelor's Degree in forestry, horticulture or a related field.

License(s)/Certification(s)
Valid California Class C driver's license.
Possession and maintenance of "Certified Arborist" designation with the International Society of Arboriculture.

Note
An equivalent combination of experience, education and/or training may substitute for the listed minimum requirements.

The examination will consist of an evaluation and an oral, with the evaluation as a qualifying step and the oral 100%. All applications, resumes and submitted reference materials will be reviewed and evaluated and only the best-qualified candidates based on applicable experience will be invited to the oral examination. Any evaluation will be based on the candidate's education and experience as related to the position. Any examination will be to evaluate the candidate's education, experience, knowledge and skills for the position. The City of Glendale reserves the right to modify the above stated examination components and/or weights. Should this be necessary, the candidates will be notified of the specific examination components and weights prior to the administration of any examination. TIME AND PLACE OF THE EXAMINATION WILL BE ANNOUNCED. The City of Glendale conforms with State and Federal obligations to make reasonable accommodation for applicants and employees with disabilities. The Human Resources Department asks that it be advised of special needs at least five days prior to the first test part so that a reasonable accommodation may be made. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Glendale requires that all new employees provide documentation to establish both work authorization and identity.