Urban Forestry ISA Arborist - Tree Inventory & Health

Oak Bay Parks, Recreation & Culture; Oak Bay; On-site; CAD 48,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff Pass

Flexible hours

Work-life balance culture

14% pay in lieu of benefits

On-the-job training

Job summary

Oak Bay Parks, Recreation and Culture is seeking an Arborist (ISA) to manage Oak Bay’s urban forest through hazard assessment, species recommendations, and maintenance. The role supervises staff on tree work, planting, and removals while ensuring safety and data collection for inventories.

The position is full-time with a 13-month term starting January 2027, offering shift flexibility and community-focused benefits, including access to staff amenities and a pension-health package.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Plant Sciences, Horticulture or related discipline and 2 years related experience.
• Completion of chain saw safety and Electrical Safety and Knowing your Approaches courses.
• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certification or equivalent.
• British Columbia Pesticide Applicator's Certificate.
• Experience with tree inventory software.
• Certified Tree Risk Assessor.
• Valid BC Drivers License.
• Current OFA-Level 1 certification.

Responsibilities

• Participate in park operational functions including arboricultural techniques for natural system and tree management.
• Performs skilled arboriculture tasks such as planting, fertilizing, pruning, climbing and guying trees, removals, limbing, bucking, brush chipping or clean up.
• Monitors tree health and safety, responding to hazards and emergencies.
• Leads and coordinates the work of parks staff and collaborates with other departments.
• Assesses construction and utility impacts on trees and recommends mitigation measures.
• Responds to public inquiries and maintains data for tree inventories and preventive maintenance.
• Ensures safety compliance and maintains tools and equipment.

Job description

Oak Bay Parks, Recreation and Culture is seeking an Arborist (ISA) to manage Oak Bay’s urban forest through hazard assessment, species recommendations, and maintenance. The role supervises staff on tree work, planting, and removals while ensuring safety and data collection for inventories.

The position is full-time with a 13-month term starting January 2027, offering shift flexibility and community-focused benefits, including access to staff amenities and a pension-health package.