URBAN FORESTER

City of Burbank; Burbank (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Burbank seeks a seasoned urban forestry program manager to oversee the City’s urban forestry initiatives, including performance monitoring, contracts, and community liaison work. The role involves coordinating with multiple departments and public stakeholders to advance the Urban Forest Master Plan.

Responsibilities include budget input, project oversight, and presenting complex analyses to audiences such as the City Council.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in park planning, landscape architecture, horticulture, urban forestry or closely related field.
• Four years of recent professional experience in landscape, urban forestry, or park planning.
• Certified Arborist by ISA at time of appointment; TRAQ within three years of appointment.
• Strong budgeting, public speaking, and supervisory skills.

Responsibilities

• Review, negotiate, and administer maintenance and service contracts.
• Use GIS and tree inventory software for planning and analysis.
• Develop annual tree trimming, removal, and planting schedules per the Urban Forest Master Plan.
• Interact with City departments and community on urban forestry matters; prepare reports and presentations.

Skills

Public speaking

Negotiation

Budgeting

Supervisory/leadership

Communication

GIS

Education

Bachelor's degree in park planning/landscape architecture/horticulture/urban forestry

Tools

GIS software

Tree inventory software

Contract management software

Job description

OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT

Open to all qualified candidates.

Tentative Examination Dates For This Recruitment

TBD - Performance exam

TBD - Oral interview

Dates may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Candidates who pass each phase of the recruitment process will be notified of the official examination dates.

Overview

Under direction, to manage the City’s urban forestry program through monitoring performance, production, and quality of work; serve as a liaison between the City and community regarding urban forestry matters; provide highly responsible administrative support to assigned supervisor; and perform related work as required.

Essential Functions

Performs a variety of administrative tasks related to reviewing, negotiating, and administering various maintenance and service contracts; utilizes a tree inventory data collection and analysis software system; reviews, recommends, and approves tree removal permits; interacts with City departments in the development of tree related projects; develops annual tree trimming schedule, removal, and planting activities including those outlined in the Urban Forest Master Plan; investigates, analyzes, responds to, and resolves complaints from the general public regarding the location or condition of trees; prepares projects related to, but not limited to, capital improvements and the Urban Forest Master Plan; utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping software and other specialized software; manages tree claims and may represent the City at legal proceedings and court hearings; prepares and presents detailed and comprehensive written reports and oral presentations containing complex information and analysis to a variety of audiences, including but not limited to the City Council; works with contractors and volunteer groups and oversees projects; provides budget input, executes purchases, and manages resources related to urban forestry projects; inspects landscape and forestry areas, including trees, throughout the City and initiates work orders to trim, spray, or remove trees; may supervise the forestry crew in the absence of the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director; may conduct safety meetings and enforce safety regulations; reads and interprets construction plans; attends meetings as directed; drives on City business.

Minimum Qualifications

Employment Standards: Knowledge of principles and practices of landscape architecture and urban design; principles in urban forestry and agriculture; practical application of green infrastructure, environmental, and sustainability practices; native and exotic plant materials; basic principles of irrigation design; basic engineering principles in grading, drainage, erosion control, and paving design; principles and practices of public speaking; spelling, grammar, and punctuation; basic budgeting; principles and practices of sound personnel management and supervision. Est. 11/25/2025 Civil Service Classification BMA FLSA Exempt

Skill in standard and specialized tree maintenance; public relations; utilizing computers and a variety of computer software at a proficient level.

Ability to read blueprints; manage and negotiate contracts; assess customer needs and make effective recommendations; learn new software programs including GIS and other technologies for urban forestry; make independent decisions; learn and implement City policies, procedures, and codes; effectively handle unusual or difficult citizen complaints; maintain records and prepare written reports; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public.

Education/Training

Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for acceptable job performance as determined by the City. Example combination includes but is not limited to graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in park planning, landscape architecture, horticulture, urban forestry, or a closely related field, and four years of recent professional experience in landscape and architecture or park planning.

Special Conditions & Requirements

Ability to work holidays, weekends, after hours, and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions while exposed to the elements as needed.

License & Certificates

A valid California Class "C" driver’s license or equivalent; certification as a Certified Arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) at time of appointment; Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) by ISA must be completed within three years of appointment. All required certificates must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.

Supplemental Information

Desirable Qualifications: A valid California Class "A" driver’s license or equivalent. A master's degree in park management, landscape architecture, or public administration.