Lead Campus Arborist & Tree Health Specialist

VP Facilities; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech seeks a Campus Arborist to lead the university's tree-care program, guiding staff and contract crews in pruning, plant health care, and risk reduction. You will manage work orders, training, and inspections while coordinating with Urban Forester and academic partners.

This role requires ISA Arborist credential, pesticide certification, GIS skills, and the ability to work at heights up to 70 feet. A strong safety culture and hands-on leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• Current ISA Certified Arborist credential.
• Current Registered Pesticide Technician; ability to obtain Commercial Pesticide License Category 3A within one year of hire.
• Working knowledge of ANSI A300 tree care standards and ANSI Z133 safety requirements for arboriculture operations.
• Working knowledge of GIS and tree inventory software.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in the tree care industry with specialization in technical pruning, removal, and plant health care.
• Must be able to cope with heights which may typically reach 50-70 feet above ground.
• Ability to apply safety standards and procedures in the operation of equipment and performance of work tasks including verification that utility locates have cleared prior to work commencing when required.
• Must be able to perform heavy manual labor, including safely moving and handling greater than 50 pounds; climb and work from elevated work stations such as ladders and scaffolds; work for long periods of time sitting, standing, walking, reaching, bending, pushing/pulling; and work in all types of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
• Must wear employer provided uniforms as instructed by supervisor or lead. As situation dictates, must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Responsibilities

• Lead staff arborists and contracted specialists providing advanced guidance on tree care.
• Develop and deliver training for tree crews, urban‑forestry interns, and apprentices.
• Schedule, assign, supervise, and audit all tree‑care work orders.
• Maintain the campus tree inventory and conduct asset analyses for planning.
• Assist with construction‑site assessments, tree inspections, and planting designs.
• Mentor student interns and coordinate with academic departments.
• Available 24/7 as emergency personnel for events or weather incidents.

Skills

ISA Certified Arborist credential

Pesticide Technician certification

ANSI A300 standards knowledge

ANSI Z133 safety requirements

GIS knowledge

Tree inventory software

3+ years tree care experience

Height/work at elevation

Safety standards for equipment

Heavy manual labor

PPE compliance

Education

Bachelors in Forestry / Urban Forestry / Natural Resource Management / Horticulture or related field

ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification

Tools

GIS

Tree inventory software

Job description

Virginia Tech seeks a Campus Arborist to lead the university's tree-care program, guiding staff and contract crews in pruning, plant health care, and risk reduction. You will manage work orders, training, and inspections while coordinating with Urban Forester and academic partners.

This role requires ISA Arborist credential, pesticide certification, GIS skills, and the ability to work at heights up to 70 feet. A strong safety culture and hands-on leadership are essential.