Forester

NYC Department of Social Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The NYC Department of Social Services is seeking a Forester to manage urban forestry and green infrastructure projects. Responsibilities include site surveys, contract management, and collaboration with city agencies. Ideal candidates will have a degree in forestry and strong communication skills.

Benefits

Potential eligibility for federal and state loan forgiveness programs

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in forestry or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Valid NY State driver license required.

Responsibilities

• Manage contracts related to green infrastructure projects.
• Perform site surveys and tree health assessments.
• Consult with NYC Parks and DEP engineers.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Independence

Education

Master’s degree in forestry

Bachelor’s degree in forestry

Associate degree in forestry

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

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IMPORTANT: All applicants must currently hold the permanent position of "Forester" to be considered for an interview.

The Forestry, Horticulture, and Natural Resources Group manages citywide urban forestry, ecological initiatives, policy standards, and performance measures, including street tree planting, Greenstreets, Green Infrastructure, natural areas restoration, and horticultural training and education. The Green Infrastructure Unit of the NYC Parks Department focuses on stormwater capture in priority CSO (Combined Sewage Overflow) tributary areas, primarily in the right of way. This work enhances the city’s sewer system and transforms grey spaces into green, providing numerous benefits to New Yorkers.

The division's mission is to protect, restore, expand, and manage NYC’s natural spaces and green infrastructure to maximize their benefits and value within the urban ecosystem. Responsibilities include citywide urban forestry, ecological, horticulture initiatives, and broader green infrastructure projects like green roofs, daylighting, wetland restoration, and stormwater management. The Forester will review engineered landscape designs transforming impervious grey space into green space and retrofit existing parklands for environmental benefits, especially stormwater capture, in partnership with DEP. The role involves site surveys to identify potential tree issues related to green infrastructure siting and issuing permits for trees in the right of way and on-site, under NYC Parks’ jurisdiction. Many projects involve DEP and other agencies, with roughly 50% of work in the field.

Major Responsibilities include:

1. Participating in field walk-throughs with DEP and city agency representatives to survey potential green infrastructure sites, making decisions on species selection and site design based on NYC Parks criteria.
2. Managing contracts related to green infrastructure projects, reviewing designs, and providing feedback to agencies.
3. Performing post-planting inspections and tree health assessments with DEP.
4. Performing advanced forestry functions in the field and office under supervision.
5. Implementing Parks Department standards for tree permitting, including removal, planting, and replacement.
6. Consulting regularly with NYC Parks and DEP engineers and contractors.
7. Scheduling and supervising field surveys and inspections to assess tree health and conditions.
8. Managing the borough-wide tree database, tracking budgets, productivity, and program updates.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A master’s degree in forestry or a related field, or
• A bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field plus one year of professional experience, or
• An associate degree plus three years of professional experience, or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience, with at least an associate degree in forestry or a related field.

License Requirement: Valid Motor Vehicle Driver License in NY State, maintained throughout employment.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience working with the public.
• Ability to work independently.
• Valid NY State driver license.

This position is open to qualified persons, including those eligible for the 55-a Program. Please indicate your interest in this program at the top of your resume and cover letter.

Additional benefits include potential eligibility for federal and state loan forgiveness programs. Residency in NYC is not required.

The City of New York is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.