What are the responsibilities and job description for the Arborist II position at City of Springfield, MA?
Position Purpose/Summary
Responsible for performing all aspects of tree care including pruning for safety, clearance, and visibility. Position includes assisting with the removal of hazard trees including technical rigging of limbs and wood. Assists with related Forestry Division operations including tree planting and tree nursery maintenance. Responsible for operating various vehicles which require a valid Commercial Driver's License. Supervision is received from Lead Arborist. No supervision is exercised over other employees.
Essential Functions
- Daily work activities to maintain the overall health and vigor of the City of Springfield street tree population.
- Drives aerial lift truck, dump truck and log loader.
- Operates various hand and power tools associated with tree work including handsaws, chainsaws, and blowers.
- Operates machinery associated with tree work including aerial lifts, wood chippers, and stump grinders.
- Reports directly to the Lead Arborist for daily work assignment.
- Daily work will include but is not limited to pruning, removal, and planting of public street trees.
- Performs proper clean-up of job sites and maintains a safe work zone.
- May be called upon to report to storm damage calls outside regular operational hours.
- Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to perform strenuous labor and work in all weather conditions and seasons
- Knowledge of methods, equipment, and materials used in tree maintenance and care
- Ability to safely and effectively fell trees, remove branches, and lower limbs
- Understanding of industry safety procedures for climbing trees and working around overhead wires.
- Understanding of occupational hazards and standard safety precautions.
- Ability to plan, organize, and implement tree planting, pruning and removal operation
- Ability to follow and direct others to follow safe work practices
- Prepare and maintain records and reports
- Demonstrate clear and concise verbal and written communication
- Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with others contacted in the course of work
- Must be exceptional working in a team environment, capable of working with a group of staff in an effective manner
- Must have experience working collaboratively in a union environment and with the general public.
- Ability to anticipate, respond to and manage change. Ability to think strategically.
Education and Experience
- Associates' level or higher degree in arboriculture or related field preferred
- ISA Certified Tree Worker preferred
- 3 years of tree climbing experience preferred
NOTICE: The following benefits are contingent upon hours worked and bargaining vs. non-bargaining agreements.
Medical/Dental/ Vision
75% City Subsidized
All health insurance plans include Dental and Vision
Retirement
Available to employees working 20 hours per week
Paid Vacation
Bargaining unit positions are subject to contractual obligations.
Paid Holidays
All City employees receive 11 paid holidays per year.
Paid Sick Time
Full time employees are immediately eligible to begin accruing 1 1/4 days per month which can be taken after 6 months of service. Unused sick days can be rolled over to subsequent calendar years. Supplemental Long Term and Short disability coverage is available to employees at the employee cost.
Paid Personal Days
Use up to 3 of your accrued sick days as Personal days. Personal days cannot be rolled over into the next calendar year.
Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
A means for eligible employees to balance work and family responsibilities by taking unpaid leave for authorized reasons.
Training
On the job and instructor led courses available
Employee Assistance Program
Free, confidential and personal assistance to employees and their families to resolve issues that affect their personal lives as well as job performance.
Direct Deposit
Easy, convenient, and free!