Academy Arborist (PowerCorBOS)

City of Boston; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Boston seeks an Academy Arborist to lead the Urban Forestry Industry Academy. The role focuses on mentoring crew members in tree care and conservation practices, implementing curriculum-based activities, and ensuring safety standards while providing hands-on training in arboriculture techniques.

Qualifications

• 3+ years experience in arboriculture at municipal or commercial level.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Knowledge of tree care practices and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provides hands-on training in chainsaw operation and tree care.
• Mentors crew members and maintains safety protocols.
• Oversees tree assessments and guides safe tree removal.

Skills

Tree planting knowledge

Communication skills

Teamwork

Judgment

Education

Certification as an Arborist

Massachusetts Driver’s License

Job description

Overview

The Academy Arborist role at PowerCorpsBOS will play a crucial role in the build-out of the newly designed Urban Forestry Industry Academy. This position is funded through a US Forestry grant for the next 5 years. You would be charged with building out the program from the existing structure, building relationships, and implementing the work schedule, particularly focusing on urban forestry and conservation activities while managing the crew. The selected candidate will serve as a mentor during the foundation phase, guiding crew members in acquiring essential skills and techniques related to tree care, forestry, landscaping, and land stewardship. Working closely with crew leaders and under the direction of the Program Manager and the Program Director, the Academy Arborist will lead the crew in executing assignments aligned with the Urban Forestry Curriculum.

Responsibilities

• Provides hands-on training in various areas, including chainsaw and woodchipper operation, pruning techniques, and power-tool maintenance.
• Gives guidance on conservation efforts around invasive tree removal and reforestation efforts.
• Works on a multidisciplinary team to mentor and help corps members from varying cultural backgrounds overcome life issues and get into a livable wage career after the program.
• Enforces and adheres to all safety standards, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols and hand tool safety.
• Oversees vehicle safety procedures, tree assessments, and hazard awareness, ensuring a safe work environment for the crew.
• Provides training on chainsaw anatomy, maintenance, and safe operation.
• Instructs crew members in chipper startup and shutdown protocols, safe use practices, and daily maintenance.
• Facilitates learning sessions on plant anatomy, soil health, and functioning. Provides training in safe carpentry operation standards, tools, and construction techniques. Oversees tree assessments and guides crew members in safe tree removal techniques.
• Instructs crew members in climbing, rope handling, knot tying, and safe maneuvering within the tree canopy.
• Monitors activities related to planting, watering, pruning, pest control, removals, and storm response
• Utilizes a work order management system related to arboriculture operations to ensure efficient use of labor, materials, equipment and educate other staff through presentations on-site and in office settings.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

• Three plus (3+) years of progressively responsible experience in arboriculture, either at the municipal or commercial level.
• A Massachusetts Driver’s License is required.
• Proficiency and knowledge of tree planting, including stock selection, site preparation, tree installation, and required aftercare.
• Working knowledge of practices and equipment associated with the maintenance and care of trees and shrubs, particularly those common in the Northeastern United States.
• Knowledge of ANSI A-300, Z-133, and Z60.1 standards of practice & operation.
• Proficiency in written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently on routine tasks and manage recurring project cycles.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with a diverse group of coworkers and members of the community.
• Ability to exercise sound and professional judgment. Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions typical to the region, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Ability to work indoors in an office environment. Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• Preferred Qualifications: Certification as an Arborist by either the Massachusetts Arborist Association or the International Society of Arboriculture. Commercial Applicator License (core). Commercial Driver’s License.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union.Salary Plan/Grade: Non-Union/MM2-6

Hours per week: 35