Strategic Forestry & Wildfire Planner

Arizona Public Service - APS; Flagstaff (AZ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Arizona Public Service is seeking Forestry and Fire Planner professionals to support vegetation management and defensible space strategies across APS service areas, with field leadership and contractor coordination.

The roles focus on regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement, including DSAP program execution and arboriculture expertise. Significant travel and field work are expected.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in forestry, arboriculture, biology, or related field.
• ISA Arborist certification required or pursued within specified timeframe.
• Experience with vegetation management and regulatory compliance expected.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule and release work to vegetation contractor crews with quality control.
• Inspect sites to ensure safety, environmental and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate defensible space (DSAP) activities around poles and infrastructure.
• Partner with contractors, field personnel, customers, and landowners to address vegetation concerns.
• Lead and mentor field teams to ensure safe, efficient execution and high-quality work.
• Evaluate program performance and contribute to budgeting and planning.

Skills

Forestry knowledge

Arboriculture

Vegetation management

Environmental science

Natural resources

Safety regulations

Planning

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Technical leadership

Contractor coordination

Education

Bachelor's in forestry/arboriculture/biology

ISA Certified Arborist (alternative path)

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

Job description

Arizona Public Service is seeking Forestry and Fire Planner professionals to support vegetation management and defensible space strategies across APS service areas, with field leadership and contractor coordination.

The roles focus on regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement, including DSAP program execution and arboriculture expertise. Significant travel and field work are expected.