Purpose: |
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Under general supervision, inspect and maintain public trees using a working knowledge of tree pruning, planting, watering, and removal, 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: |
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Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
- Inspect trees to evaluate pruning or removal needs to ensure public safety, aesthetics, and tree health.
- Identify tree and vegetation pruning requirements, implement work orders or oversee contractors to complete required tree and/or vegetation maintenance and communicate management decisions to the public.
- Utilize modern climbing systems according to industry standards, working at height to perform tree pruning and tree removal activities.
- Utilize advanced rigging techniques to safely lower tree limbs, trunks and storm debris for public safety and infrastructure protection.
- 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.
- Inspect completed work to ensure compliance with required specifications and/or tree maintenance contracts.
- Provide rotating on-call and in-person emergency response to City-wide weather events, during and after normal work hours.
- Assist in the training of employees and volunteers.
- Apply a wide range of chemicals and fertilizers to treat and control insects, plant diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
- Remain informed of laws, policies, and regulations concerning the application of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
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Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: |
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None.
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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: |
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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 Best Management Practices in the Tree Care Industry.
- Knowledge of ANSI Z133 and ANSI A300 Standards.
- Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
- Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedures.
- Knowledge of GPS and GIS systems.
- Skill in tree climbing and/or working at heights from an aerial lift.
- Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Skill in data collection and problem solving.
- 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 train others.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
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Minimum Qualifications: |
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- Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus two (2) years of outdoor experience in construction, landscaping, or tree care, which included the use of power tools or motorized equipment.
- Completion of the Austin Parks and Recreation Arborist Training Program, including classroom training and demonstrated proficiency.
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Licenses and Certifications Required: |
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- Possess a valid Texas class “A” or "B" Commercial Driver's License
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