Urban Forest Manager

City of Des Moines; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Des Moines is seeking an experienced leader to develop, manage and lead activities related to the Urban Forest in Des Moines. You will oversee the Forestry Division of the Public Works Department and manage all city owned trees.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in arboriculture, five years of experience, and ISA certification; you will work with boards and commissions and develop the Urban Forest Master Plan, while coordinating with multiple city partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in arboriculture or closely related field required.
• Five (5) years of experience in arboriculture required.
• 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.
• Works with other city departments on tree related matters.
• Develops, leads and maintains the Urban Forest Master Plan.
• Acts as a liaison to varying Boards and Commissions, including the DNR, Trees Forever, Tree City USA/Arbor Day, ISU-Forestry Department, Parks Board, Planning and Zoning and Des Moines neighborhood Groups.
• Performs planning, data collection and reporting activities including a complete inventory of all city owned trees.
• Makes presentations to various civic, professional and other related groups on the care and maintenance of trees.
• Recommends Capital Improvement Program projects and prepares, monitors and recommends related expenditures.
• Reviews site plans, specifications, contracts, etc. for compliance with codes, ordinances, zoning, etc. related to trees.
• Oversees the City’s Tree Mitigation Ordinance and Policy.
• Enforces City tree ordinances, design, design standards and municipal specifications; recommends changes to such when necessary through the appropriate approval process.
• Inspects and reports on the need to treat trees for diseases, parasites, etc.
• Manages and/or coordinates specific tree programs, i.e. Oak Wilt Program, Emerald Ash Borer program, etc.
• Develops and implements plans, strategies, and programs to conserve, preserve and proliferate trees and urban forests.

Skills

Arboriculture knowledge

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in arboriculture or related field

Tools

ISA Certified Arborist

Job description

City of Des Moines is seeking an experienced leader to develop, manage and lead activities related to the Urban Forest in Des Moines. You will oversee the Forestry Division of the Public Works Department and manage all city owned trees.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in arboriculture, five years of experience, and ISA certification; you will work with boards and commissions and develop the Urban Forest Master Plan, while coordinating with multiple city partners.