Field Operations Forester

Role Overview

The Field Operations Forester leads the urban forestry function and oversees day-to-day field operations. This role is responsible for planning routine street tree maintenance, coordinating urgent repair work, managing contractor performance, and ensuring service requests and city tree issues are handled effectively.

Key Duties

• Direct the activities of the urban forestry section under administrative guidance.
• Organize the Systematic Street Tree Maintenance schedule.
• Review and prepare employee attendance records and work reports.
• Arrange routine servicing and emergency repairs for divisional vehicles and equipment.
• Track contractor progress and quality to confirm compliance with contract terms.
• Respond to citizen questions, complaints, and work orders, then document recommended actions.
• Handle emergency and unscheduled work requests and coordinate timely completion.
• Investigate tree-related accidents and vandalism incidents within the city.
• Evaluate operational needs and equipment upgrades and advise the relevant city authority.
• Provide 24-hour on-call support during storms and emergency situations.
• Carry out additional job-related responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in Urban Forestry or a closely related discipline from an accredited four-year college or university. One year of paid, full-time experience in forestry or arboricultural work is required, along with three years of supervisory experience. The role also requires certification as an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Arborist.

Additional Requirements and Preferences

• A valid State of Ohio driver’s license is required.
• An Ohio Commercial Driver’s License is preferred.
• Strong tree identification skills are essential.
• Ability to safely operate a chainsaw is required.
• Preferred credentials include ISA TRAQ, ISA Municipal Specialist, or ISA Certified Tree Worker, or the ability to earn one of these within one year of hire.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office is preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are important.
• Good interpersonal skills and comfort working with the public are expected.
• Ability to work independently is preferred.
• Education substitution is allowed: one year of full-time forestry or arboricultural experience may replace one year of missing college education.

On-Call and Work Conditions

This position includes a 24-hour on-call requirement during storms and emergency events.