Academy Arborist - PowerCorpBos

City of Boston; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

PowerCorpsBOS seeks an Academy Arborist to lead the Urban Forestry Curriculum program in Boston. The role focuses on building out the academy, mentoring crew members, and coordinating forestry and conservation activities under the Program Manager and Director.

The position requires 3+ years in arboriculture, MA arborist certification or ISA, and a valid MA driver’s license. The role involves hands-on training in tree care, safety, and field operations, with a 35-hour work week and a 5-year

Qualifications

• 3+ years of arboriculture experience in municipal or commercial settings
• Knowledge of tree planting, stock selection, installation, and aftercare
• Experience with safety standards and PPE protocols in field operations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity with ANSI A-300, Z-133, Z60.1 standards and best practices

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on training in chainsaw, woodchipper operation, pruning techniques, and power-tool maintenance
• Mentor crew members in arboriculture techniques and land stewardship
• Ensure safety standards, PPE use, and safe operation of equipment
• Oversee tree assessments, planting, pruning, and storm-response activities
• Coordinate with crew leaders and program managers to execute assignments
• Educate staff on tree canopy work, climbing, rope handling, and knot-tying techniques
• Utilize work orders and educate others through on-site and office presentations
• Perform related duties as assigned

Skills

Arboriculture experience

Tree planting knowledge

Safety protocols (PPE)

Communication skills

Outdoor work in all weather

ANSI/ISA standards knowledge

Education

Massachusetts Arborist Certification (or ISA)

Massachusetts Driver's License

Job description

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.

• 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, and equipment, and educates other staff through presentations on-site and in office settings.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

• Three plus (3+) years of progressively responsible experience in arboriculture, either at the municipal or commercial level.
• 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 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.

A Massachusetts Driver's License is required.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

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

Hours per week: 35