Urban Forester

Role overview

The City of Burbank is hiring an Urban Forester to oversee its urban forestry program. This role focuses on tracking performance, production, and work quality, serving as the main point of contact for urban forestry matters with the community, and providing high-level administrative support to the assigned supervisor. The position also includes other duties connected to the function of the role.

Recruitment process

This is an open competitive recruitment and is available to all qualified applicants. The selection process includes a performance exam and an oral interview; both are tentatively scheduled and may change if unexpected issues arise. Candidates who advance through each stage will receive notice of the official exam dates.

Key duties

The selected candidate will handle a broad mix of forestry administration, contract oversight, public interaction, project coordination, and field inspection work. Responsibilities include managing maintenance and service agreements, using tree inventory data systems, reviewing and approving tree removal permits, contributing to tree-related project planning, and helping develop annual schedules for trimming, removals, and planting under the Urban Forest Master Plan.

The role also involves responding to public concerns about tree placement or condition, preparing and supporting capital improvement and master plan-related projects, working with GIS and other specialized tools, managing tree claims, and possibly representing the City in hearings or court matters. In addition, the position requires preparing detailed reports and presentations for different audiences, including the City Council, coordinating with contractors and volunteer groups, overseeing project work, supporting budget planning and purchasing, inspecting forestry and landscape areas, and creating work orders for trimming, spraying, or removal. The role may also include backup supervision of the forestry crew, conducting safety meetings, enforcing safety rules, reading construction plans, attending meetings, and driving on City business.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

Successful candidates should understand landscape architecture, urban design, urban forestry, agriculture, green infrastructure, sustainability practices, plant materials, irrigation basics, grading, drainage, erosion control, paving principles, public speaking, grammar, punctuation, budgeting, and personnel supervision. They should also be comfortable using computers and specialized software, and be able to work independently, solve problems, handle difficult complaints, manage contracts, prepare records and reports, and communicate clearly in both written and verbal form.

Education and experience

The City will consider any mix of education and experience that provides the required knowledge and skills. One example is a degree from an accredited college or university in park planning, landscape architecture, horticulture, urban forestry, or a closely related subject, plus four years of recent professional experience in landscape architecture or park planning.

Working conditions and requirements

The position requires the ability to work holidays, weekends, after hours, and outdoors in changing weather conditions and exposure to the elements as needed. Candidates must have a valid California Class C driver’s license or an equivalent license at the time of appointment. ISA Certified Arborist certification is required when appointed, and ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) must be completed within three years of appointment. All required certifications must be kept current throughout employment.

Preferred qualifications

Preference may be given to candidates with a valid California Class A driver’s license or equivalent, as well as a master’s degree in park management, landscape architecture, or public administration.

Additional information

Classification: BMA. FLSA status: Exempt. Estimated date noted in the source: 11/25/2025.