Inspecting Arborist

International Society of Arboriculture; Renton (WA); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Deferred compensation 3%

VEBA Plan 1%

Medical, dental, vision, and life保险

Job summary

The City of Renton is seeking an Inspecting Arborist to support the urban forest, conduct tree inspections, assess health and risk, and provide maintenance recommendations. This role contributes to community safety and environmental quality in Renton.

The position includes a telework-capable, hybrid arrangement up to 2 days per week, with attendance at the worksite required as needed and residency within Washington State.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Forestry, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 2 years of certified arborist experience or combination of closely related work, including project management experience.
• Or minimum 6 years of relevant education and experience.
• ISA TRAQ qualification within 6 months of hire.
• First aid and CPR certificates within 6 months of employment.
• Successful passing of driving record check.
• Successful passing of background check.
• Maintain and manage digital GIS database for tree inventory.
• Support code enforcement of tree regulations and site investigations.
• Assist with review of tree permits and site inspections for tree protection.

Responsibilities

• Conduct tree inspections and assess health and risk; provide expert recommendations for maintenance.
• Maintain GIS database and support urban forestry program activities.
• Coordinate with City departments and assist with tree permit reviews and site inspections.

Skills

Tree inspection

Risk assessment

GIS data management

Project management

Public service mindset

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Forestry/Horticulture/Environmental Science

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Inspecting Arborist

The City of Renton is seeking a knowledgeable and motivated Inspecting Arborist to support the care and long‑term sustainability of our urban forest. This position is responsible for conducting tree inspections, assessing tree health and risk, and providing expert recommendations for maintenance and preservation. A successful candidate brings strong technical skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service. Work in this role directly supports community safety, environmental quality, and Renton’s urban forestry goals. If you are passionate about trees and dedicated to helping communities thrive, we invite you to apply.

Working for the City of Renton comes with an excellent benefits package, including:

• Deferred compensation with the City contributing 3% of the employee’s salary.
• VEBA Plan with the City contributing 1% of the employee’s salary.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance at affordable rates.
• Paid leave for vacation, sick, eleven holidays, and two "personal" holidays a year.
• State of Washington Department of Retirement Systems Public Employee Retirement Systems (PERS) plan enrollment.

Telework Program: The City of Renton supports workers performing in a hybrid capacity (partial telework/in‑office) where job responsibilities can be performed remotely. This position may be eligible for a telework arrangement, working certain days/times remotely (up to 2 days per week) based on the operational needs of the City and specific Department. Regardless of job title or telework arrangement, City of Renton employees must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance to their worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.

Education, Experience, and License Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Forestry, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 2 years of certified arborist experience or combination of closely related work, including project management experience.
• Or minimum 6 years of relevant education and experience.
• ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) required within 6 months of date of hire.
• First aid and CPR certificates within 6 months of employment.
• Successful passing of a required driving record check.
• Successful passing of a required background check.
• Maintain and manage digital GIS database for tree inventory.
• Support code enforcement of tree regulations and site investigations.
• Assist the Community Economic Development Department with the review of tree permits for tree removals and site inspections for tree protection requirements on development parcels.
• Assist the Urban Forestry and Natural Resource Manager with inquiries and inspections arising from Renton Responds.
• Assist the Urban Forestry and Natural Resource Manager with education and outreach efforts.
• Coordinate work with City departments including Community and Economic Development, Executive Services (GIS), Parks and Recreation, Public Works (Street Maintenance and Transportation divisions).
• Lay out new projects, assist in site management, create worklists of trees requiring maintenance, and locate assets using GIS database as directed.
• Respond to inquiries via the website, emails, online portal, walk‑ins, and personal customer interaction in the field.
• Prepare worklists and spreadsheets.
• Assist with bidding and contracting as directed.
• Assist with contractor supervision for new projects, perform site management duties, and identify maintenance locations, as directed.
• Document tree inspections or evaluations, assess tree health, risk and maintenance needs.
• Contribute to an environment of teamwork and respect.
• Foster a culture of equity and inclusion by recognizing the diverse needs and perspectives of groups and individuals.
• Remain current with relevant technological advancements as it relates to field.
• Participate in and help provide cross‑training in processes as directed by management to ensure a well‑rounded team for coverage purposes.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• May be assigned to support City priorities during emergencies.