LEAD ARBORIST (NONCOMPETITIVE)

University of Cincinnati; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cincinnati is seeking a Lead Arborist to supervise tree care operations across the city. The role involves managing a team, conducting tree health assessments, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Candidates must have significant climbing experience and relevant certifications.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years climbing experience with a tree service.
• Two years leading tree care activities.
• Must attach proof of certifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of arborists and support staff.
• Oversee tree health assessments and hazard evaluations.
• Manage tree care operations across city properties.

Skills

Tree climbing

Risk assessment

Communication

Team management

GIS tools

Education

ISA Certified Arborist

Ohio Class-B CDL

Job description

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General Statement of Duties

The Lead Arborist performs skilled arboriculture work, leading a team of arborists and support staff as the field supervisor and subject matter expert. Charged with managing a safe and efficient tree care operation within the City of Cincinnati rights-of-way, Parks, and/or other public properties, general duties include regularly performing tree care (tree pruning, removals, and stump grinding); coordination, management, and oversight of a team of arborists performing tree maintenance, ensuring issues are addressed promptly based on hazard assessments; conducting tree health and hazard assessments; and coordinating work with city contractors. Other duties may be assigned.

Details About The Role

Cincinnati Parks is hiring a Lead Arborist to supervise the field crew and manage tree care operations across city rights-of-way, parks, and public properties. Responsibilities include overseeing tree health assessments, hazard evaluations, team training, work tracking via geospatial systems, and other related duties.

Minimum Qualifications (KSAs)

(Note: Not all KSAs are required for every candidate.)

Knowledge Of

• ISA, OSHA, and ANSI A300 standards and best practices
• Tree climbing, rigging, aerial rescue techniques
• Physics related to tree weight and safety
• Native and commonly used tree species, identification, and inventory methods
• Plant healthcare, disease, insect, and nutrient management
• Fertilizer usage and mixing
• Risk assessment and safety practices
• Tools and equipment safety, maintenance, and inventory
• City policies and safety procedures

Skill To

• Perform and train crews in advanced tree maintenance
• Climb proficiently at heights using ropes and other techniques
• Operate and train others on power and heavy equipment
• Plant and maintain trees to ISA standards
• Drive large trucks with trailers and equipment

Ability To

• Supervise and manage field operations and workloads
• Ensure safety and quality standards are met
• Make independent, safety-focused decisions
• Communicate clearly and maintain safety awareness
• Use GIS tools for tree inventory data
• Work irregular hours and respond to emergencies

Required Education And Experience

Minimum three years climbing experience with a tree service; two years leading tree care activities. Must attach proof of certifications including ISA Certified Arborist and Ohio Class-B CDL. Additional certifications required within 12 months, including Ohio pesticide licenses and ISA TRAQ.

Other Requirements

Valid Driver's License, willingness to work irregular hours, climb trees, and respond to emergencies. Must obtain additional licenses within probation period.

Physical and Environmental Conditions

Outdoor and indoor environments, exposure to weather, traffic, heavy equipment, pesticides, and high elevations. Physical ability for manual labor, climbing, and operating equipment.