Arborist I – Public Tree Care & Equipment Operator

Sowela; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Austin-based Arborist I position at Sowela focuses on planting, pruning, and maintaining public trees using safe practices, basic rigging, and equipment operation. You will work in a crew, follow city procedures, and support emergency response during severe weather.

The role requires one year outdoor experience with power tools or motorized equipment, and you must obtain a Texas CDL within three months of hire. Outdoor work in all weather is expected.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
• One year of outdoor experience in construction, landscaping, or tree care, including use of power tools or motorized equipment.

Responsibilities

• Works in a crew setting to complete assigned work orders for tree planting and maintenance activities.
• Uses basic rigging techniques to safely lower tree limbs, trunks, and storm debris for public safety and infrastructure protection.
• Operates 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.
• Provides rotating City-wide emergency response to severe weather events during and after normal work hours.
• Applies a wide range of chemicals and fertilizers to treat and control insects, plant diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Remains informed of laws, policies, and regulations concerning the application of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
• Maintains and updates GIS tree inventory and work management systems.

Skills

Outdoor work

Communication

Conflict management

Multi-tasking

Weather resilience

Public interaction

Prioritization

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Power tools

Job description

Austin-based Arborist I position at Sowela focuses on planting, pruning, and maintaining public trees using safe practices, basic rigging, and equipment operation. You will work in a crew, follow city procedures, and support emergency response during severe weather.

The role requires one year outdoor experience with power tools or motorized equipment, and you must obtain a Texas CDL within three months of hire. Outdoor work in all weather is expected.