ARBORIST APPRENTICE

Arborist Apprentice

The primary accountabilities below are intended to describe the general content and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.

Description

The Arborist Apprentice Assists the Senior Arborist in managing the UAB Urban Forest and individual trees, including pruning, debris removal, fertilization, health care maintenance, treatment, diagnosis, and GIS mapping.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS TO INCLUDE:

• Assists the Senior Arborist in managing the UAB Urban Forest and individual trees, including pruning, debris removal, fertilization, health care maintenance, treatment, diagnosis, and GIS mapping.

• Prunes trees from the ground, by climbing, or using various mechanical lifts to access and work within the tree canopy.

• Performs ground support duties, such as debris removal and site cleanup.

• Engages in documented on-the-job training for International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) testing and recertification while assisting with tree trimming and removal operations under the guidance of an ISA Certified Arborist.

• Demonstrates the proper use and maintenance of job-related tools and equipment, including handsaws, pruners, and electric and gas-powered saws.

• Learns to accurately identify landscape trees, recognize job-related safety hazards, and detect tree diseases and insect infestations.

• Performs various tasks to support the Grounds Department in its operations.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Ability to learn tree climbing using industry-approved methods and operate rigging systems for safe tree removal and trimming.

• Demonstrated ability to use a variety of hand and power tools.

• Ability to identify job-related safety hazards, follow industry safety standards, and properly use personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Knowledge of Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and the ability to document tree locations, conditions, and maintenance records.

• Strong ability to work collaboratively under the guidance of an ISA Certified Arborist, follow instructions, and communicate effectively with team members.

• Understands key characteristics of tree species, such as leaf shape, bark texture, and branch structure, and is familiar with common trees used in landscapes.

Starting Hourly Rate: $15.00 - $19.50 - $24.40 (Commensurate with experience and qualifications).

Work Schedule: Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including Monday - Friday, 6:00 a.m. - 2:30p.m. (subject to change to meet the needs of the University).

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or GED is required and two (2) years of related experience required.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations:

MVR:

Driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicle in performance of University business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession a valid driver’s license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

PERSONAL:

Possess the necessary physical requirements, with or without the aid of mechanical devices, to safely perform the duties and responsibilities of this position to include:

• Lifting and carrying a minimum of fifty (50) pounds.

• Perform tasks requiring climbing stairs, bending, stooping, crawling, kneeling, pulling and/or pushing, and extensive walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.

• Working in the rain and in unfavorable weather conditions, hot, cold, wet, etc.

• Working in confined spaces

• Working within extreme temperature ranges

Incomplete job profiles will not be processed. Please be certain to showcase depth and breadth of experience, as it relates to the needs of this job announcement.

For more information about UAB Facilities, please visit: http://www.uab.edu/facilities/.

UAB is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and family-friendly environment in which all faculty and staff can excel and achieve work/life balance irrespective of race, national origin, age, genetic or family medical history, gender, faith, gender identity and expression or sexual orientation. UAB also encourages applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.