Lead Arborist — Elevate Tree Care & Team Leadership

Seattle Botanic Gardens; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Seattle Botanic Gardens in Seattle, WA seeks a Lead Arborist to oversee the Arborist team and perform skilled arboricultural duties, including climbing, pruning, removals, inspections, and risk assessments under the Arboretum Manager of Horticulture.

The ideal candidate will hold ISA Certified Arborist credentials, demonstrate strong leadership, safety compliance, and experience operating arboriculture equipment. Collaboration with UW campus grounds and Seattle Parks crews is expected.

Qualifications

• HS Diploma or an equivalent combination of training and relevant work experience.
• Three years experience as an Arborist, at least one of which as a Lead Arborist.
• ISA Certified Arborist certification.
• Tree appraisal training and experience.
• Experience safely operating and maintaining equipment including wood chippers, stump grinders, chain saws, and other arboriculture tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead Arborist duties, supervise a small Arborist team, and coordinate weekly work planning.
• Supervise and train staff on arboriculture projects and safety practices.
• Oversee contractor work and coordinate with UW campus grounds and Seattle Parks crews.
• Perform tree climbing, pruning, removals, bracing/cabling, inspections, and risk assessments.
• Ensure equipment maintenance and safe operation of spider lift, bucket truck, and related tools.
• Maintain records and submit reports related to planting, dead trees, and site conditions.

Skills

ISA Certified Arborist

Tree climbing

Safety compliance

Team leadership

Equipment operation

Risk assessment

Education

HS Diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in arboriculture/forestry

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Seattle Botanic Gardens in Seattle, WA seeks a Lead Arborist to oversee the Arborist team and perform skilled arboricultural duties, including climbing, pruning, removals, inspections, and risk assessments under the Arboretum Manager of Horticulture.

The ideal candidate will hold ISA Certified Arborist credentials, demonstrate strong leadership, safety compliance, and experience operating arboriculture equipment. Collaboration with UW campus grounds and Seattle Parks crews is expected.