Urban Forester

cityofconroe; Conroe (TX); On-site; USD 70,946,000 - 77,146,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Conroe is seeking an Urban Forester to oversee tree preservation plan reviews, inspect landscapes for ordinance compliance, and enforce vegetation policies across the city. The role includes field inventories, data analysis, and preparing educational materials for staff and residents.

The candidate will develop new and improved procedures, schedules, and programs, ensuring alignment with city goals and public safety.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in urban forestry or related field; two years of related experience or an equivalent combination.
• Possession of a valid Texas Class C driver's license or higher.
• ISA Certified Arborist or ability to become certified within 24 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Review landscaping and tree preservation plans and inspections for ordinance compliance.
• Review clearing permits and variance requests; inspect landscaping in the field.
• Enforce Vegetation Ordinance and tree care policies; prepare reports and educational material.
• Develop maintenance schedules and implement procedures; communicate with staff and public.

Skills

Arboriculture knowledge

Communication skills

Field inspection

Tree maintenance planning

Data analysis

Contract specifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban forestry / forestry / arboriculture / environmental services or related field

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Chief Building Official, the Urban Forester is responsible for performing landscaping and tree preservation plan review, reviewing clearing permits, reviewing variance requests and inspecting landscaping in the field for compliance with the City of Conroe's Vegetation Ordinance. Enforces the City of Conroe's tree ordinances and tree care policies, performs field inventory, analyzes data and compiles reports, and prepares educational information on best practices for tree/shrub maintenance. Develops, writes and administers new and improved plans, procedures, policies, objectives, short and long-term maintenance schedules, and planning programs. Provides appropriate educational information to other City of Conroe and agency staff and to citizens in both oral and written formats. Prepares and implements a public relations program to protect and preserve the City of Conroe's forest resources.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in urban forestry, forestry, arboriculture, environmental services or related field and two years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements:

Possession of a valid class \"C\" Texas driver's license or higher.

Certification as an ISA Certified Arborist or the ability to become certified within 24 months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Skilled in the use of personal computers and applicable programs, applications and systems.
• Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures, familiarity with development plans, codes, ordinances and related terminology.
• Knowledge of arboriculture and methods, tools and equipment used in the care and maintenance of trees, plants and shrubs.
• Knowledge of plant and tree diseases and pests and their eradication and control.
• Skilled in instructing others in the safe use of tree and plant maintenance tools and equipment.
• Skilled in preparing, presenting, implementing and enforcing the City of Conroe's Vegetation Ordinance.
• Skilled in preparing contract specifications.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, and to make effective presentations to various groups and assemblies.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to maintain a schedule including both internal team requirements as well as self-directed field and office duties.
• Ability to understand property surveys, platted boundaries, and easements, as well as metes and bounds descriptions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work is light and requires exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: balancing, crouching, fingering, grasping, handling, hearing, kneeling, lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motions, speaking, standing, talking and walking. Occasional field tasks may require walking distances up to two miles.

BENEFITS

The City of Conroe offers great benefits such as medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, retirement plan, employee assistance program, paid time off and free membership at the City's pool and recreation center facilities. Starting salary for this position is $25.74 hourly.

The City of Conroe is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Must pass background check and pre-employment substance abuse screening as a condition of employment. A motor vehicle record check and job-related doctor's physical exam may also be required. Safety-sensitive positions remain subject to random drug and alcohol testing after hire.