Forester

At PGE, our work involves dreaming about, planning for, and realizing a smarter, cleaner, more enduring Oregon neighborhood. Its core to our DNA and we haven't stopped since we started in 1888. We energize lives, strengthen communities and drive advancements in energy that promote social, economic and environmental progress. We're always on the lookout for people passionate about leading and being a part of teams that are advancing innovative clean energy solutions that are also affordable and accessible to all.

Job Title: Forester
Location: Portland Operations Center
Employment Type: Full-time

About Us

Portland General Electric (PGE) is an investor-owned, vertically integrated electric utility headquartered in Portland, OR. We use our expertise in forest management practices that promote both ecological health and operational efficiency. Our team is committed to responsible land stewardship, safety, and working collaboratively with our partners to ensure reliable energy delivery. We are seeking a skilled and certified Forester with experience in utility vegetation management to join our team.

Position Overview

As a Forester at PGE, you will play an essential role in managing vegetation near electric utility infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable service while supporting environmental sustainability. With your expertise in forestry practices and Arborist certification, you will oversee vegetation management plans, mitigate risks, and collaborate with utility teams to maintain safe and compliant right-of-way corridors. You will also apply your knowledge of forest health to enhance both the environment and utility infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vegetation management strategies for electric utility corridors, including tree trimming and removal to maintain safe clearance from power lines.
• Conduct forest health assessments, surveys, and inventories to monitor tree growth and identify hazards near utility infrastructure.
• Work with utility teams to assess and mitigate risk, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for utility vegetation management.
• Advise on Arborist practices, including proper pruning, tree risk assessments, and health care for trees within utility rights-of-way.
• Perform tree species identification and health assessments to prioritize vegetation management efforts.
• Collaborate with electric utility companies to design and implement safety protocols for vegetation management.
• Stay current with utility vegetation management guidelines, industry standards, and environmental best practices.
• Lead and mentor a team of vegetation management specialists and field technicians.
• Utilize GIS and other tools to map and monitor utility corridors and plan vegetation management activities.
• Ensure all vegetation management activities are performed safely, efficiently, and with minimal environmental impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in forestry, Environmental Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3 years of experience in forestry management, with a focus on electric utility vegetation management.
• Certified Arborist (ISA or equivalent) or the ability to obtain certification within a reasonable time frame.
• In-depth knowledge of utility vegetation management best practices, safety protocols, and industry standards.
• Experience working with electric utilities and understanding their vegetation management needs.
• Proficiency in GIS, mapping software, and vegetation management tools.
• Strong knowledge of tree biology, forest ecology, and risk management for utility environments.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with utility companies, landowners, and stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and safety considerations.
• Ability to work outdoors in various environmental conditions and remote areas.
• Valid driver's license and a history of safe driving practices as well as the ability to travel to multiple project locations.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development, including support for Arborist certifications and other industry training.
• A dynamic work environment with the opportunity to collaborate on impactful utility and environmental projects.
• Flexible working hours and field-based assignments.
• A company culture committed to sustainability, safety, and employee growth.

How to Apply

If you have a passion for sustainable vegetation management and are ready to contribute to the future of utility forestry, we'd love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications, Arborist certifications, and experience with electric utility vegetation management. We are excited to explore how you can become a key part of our dedicated team.

Portland General Electric is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Compensation Range:

Actual total compensation, including a performance based incentive bonus, is commensurate with experience, skills, qualifications, education, training, and internal equity. While we anticipate the selected candidate for this position will fall towards the middle or entry point of the compensation range, the decision will be made on a case-by-case basis.

PGE believes in rewarding dedicated performance. We provide a total rewards package that is designed to reward your contributions to the company, and, at the same time, support your well-being and professional development, both now and into the future. To find out more, click here.

Join us today and power your potential!

Assisting with storms or other Company emergencies is a part of all positions at Portland General Electric.

PGE is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. PGE will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

PGE does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We recognize individuals have a variety of abilities to offer and we believe there is much to value and celebrate by incorporating different abilities into the work we do. One very important way we live this out is in our application and interview process. We work hard to support individuals who may need an accommodation to fully participate in these processes. If you feel you may need an accommodation, or would like to request one, please notify the Talent Acquisition Specialist (Recruiter) associated with the job posting. You may also make this request by contacting talentacquisition@pgn.comor by calling 503-464-7250. The Recruiter will provide information and next steps for the accommodation process. Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) team is also available for support. You can contact them at dei@pgn.com.

To be considered for this position, please complete the following employment application by the posting close date. Posting closes at midnight (Pacific Time) on the closing date below. If no date is listed, job is open until filled.