city seal

City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

city seal

Arborist I


FLSA: Standard/Non-Exempt EEO Category: (80) Serv/Maint
Class Code: 10353 Salary Grade: IJ5
Approved: Last Revised: April 05, 2024


Purpose:
 

Under general supervision, maintain public trees using a working knowledge of tree pruning, removal, planting, watering, chain saw safety, aerial lift operations, rope and saddle tree climbing, electrical hazard awareness, tree biology and industry best management practices.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  1. Work in a crew setting to complete assigned work orders for tree planting and maintenance activities and communicate work order status to crew lead.
  2. Use basic rigging techniques to safely lower tree limbs, trunks and storm debris for public safety and infrastructure protection.
  3. Operate water truck, dump truck, aerial lift truck, grapple brush truck and other Forestry vehicles and equipment as needed, including vehicle inspections, basic maintenance and maintaining vehicle records.
  4. Provide rotating City-wide emergency response to severe weather events, during and after normal work hours.
  5. Apply a wide range of chemicals and fertilizers to treat and control insects, plant diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
  6. Remain informed of laws, policies, and regulations concerning the application of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
  7. Maintains and updates GIS tree inventory and work management systems.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
  None.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
  • Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedures.
  • Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Ability to work outdoors, in all types of weather.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with city employees and the public. Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
Minimum Qualifications:
 

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus one (1) year of outdoor experience in construction, landscaping, or tree care, which included the use of power tools or motorized equipment.

Licenses and Certifications Required:
 
  • Possess a valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License.
  • Must obtain Texas class “A” or "B" Commercial Driver's License and any necessary endorsements within three (3) months of employment.

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.