Urban Forest Lead & Arborist Specialist

City of Des Moines, IA; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Des Moines, IA is seeking an experienced City Forester to lead and manage the urban forest program.

The role requires a bachelor's degree in arboriculture or related field, five years in arboriculture, and a Certified Arborist credential; a driver's license is required.

You will oversee the Forestry Division, manage city trees, develop plans, work with boards, and coordinate with multiple departments and external partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in arboriculture or closely related field.
• Five (5) years of experience in arboriculture.
• Certified Arborist with the International Society of Arboriculture is required.

Responsibilities

• Manages the Forestry Division of the Public Works Department.
• Responsible for all city owned trees.
• Develops, leads and maintains the Urban Forest Master Plan.
• Acts as a liaison to boards and commissions (DNR, Trees Forever, Tree City USA/Arbor Day, ISU-Forestry, Parks Board, Planning and Zoning).
• Performs planning, data collection and reporting including a complete inventory of city trees.
• Makes presentations on tree care and maintenance to civic and professional groups.
• Reviews plans and contracts for compliance with tree-related codes and standards.
• Enforces City tree ordinances and design standards; proposes changes through approval processes.
• Develops and implements plans to conserve and proliferate trees and urban forests.

Skills

Arboriculture

Leadership

Public works coordination

Communication

Education

B.S. in Arboriculture

Job description

City of Des Moines, IA is seeking an experienced City Forester to lead and manage the urban forest program.

The role requires a bachelor's degree in arboriculture or related field, five years in arboriculture, and a Certified Arborist credential; a driver's license is required.

You will oversee the Forestry Division, manage city trees, develop plans, work with boards, and coordinate with multiple departments and external partners.