Lead Park Arborist - Urban Forestry Expert

City of Bellingham; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 79,000 - 102,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vacation leave

Paid holidays

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance and long-term/dis

Retirement plan (DRS)

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

The City of Bellingham is seeking a Park Specialist – Urban Forestry to plan, perform, and supervise technical arboriculture work in city parks, open spaces, and right-of-way areas. This role uses climbing, rigging, and aerial lifts, with a focus on safe, healthy, and resilient landscapes.

You will lead staff, coordinate with City departments and contractors, and provide hazard assessments and written reports.

Qualifications

• Four years of recent experience in technical arboriculture including removals, pruning, rope and saddle work, aerial lifts and rigging.
• Two years of arboriculture coursework may substitute for one year of experience.
• Two years of experience in arboriculture planning and execution in urban/rural environments with hazard assessments and written reports.
• Must possess ISA Certified Arborist credential at time of hire.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, implement, monitor and evaluate work for trees and forest stands in parks, open spaces and right-of-way areas.
• Lead staff in the program area and provide day-to-day direction and training.
• Coordinate activities with other City departments, developers and contractors.
• Provide consulting arborist input and written reports for City tree issues and budget input.

Skills

Arboriculture

Rigging

Climbing

Team leadership

Hazard assessment

Education

ISA Certified Arborist credential

Two years arboriculture coursework substitution

Tools

Rope and saddle gear

Aerial lifts

Rigging equipment

Pesticide license

Flagging/traffic control certification

First Aid/CPR certification

TRAQ Certification

Job description

The City of Bellingham is seeking a Park Specialist – Urban Forestry to plan, perform, and supervise technical arboriculture work in city parks, open spaces, and right-of-way areas. This role uses climbing, rigging, and aerial lifts, with a focus on safe, healthy, and resilient landscapes.

You will lead staff, coordinate with City departments and contractors, and provide hazard assessments and written reports.