Urban Forester
County of Monterey
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
The City of Monterey is seeking an experienced Urban Forester to lead the City’s urban forestry program, oversee tree maintenance, and engage the community in protecting Monterey’s urban forest. You will develop programs, provide technical guidance, and manage contractor work to maintain healthy trees across public spaces.
This senior role requires strong arboriculture knowledge, four years supervisory experience, and relevant certifications.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Forestry or related field; courses in arboriculture/urban forestry.
- Four years in a supervisory capacity in tree/grounds care and maintenance.
- Equivalent mix of education and experience may be considered.
Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, and supervise tree maintenance on City properties and parks.
- Develop and implement urban forestry plans, standards, and practices.
- Oversee contractors, manage budgets, and ensure safety and compliance.
- Provide technical guidance on urban forestry, pest management, and development.
- Engage the public and promote forest resource protection.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Help shape Monterey’s Urban Forest and make a lasting impact on Monterey’s community and environment!
Help shape Monterey’s Urban Forest and make a lasting impact on Monterey’s community and environment!
The City of Monterey’s Parks and Recreation Department is seeking an experienced Urban Forester to lead the City’s urban forestry program and help protect and grow Monterey’s treasured tree resources.
Bring your expertise in arboriculture and urban forest management to oversee tree maintenance and contractors, develop urban forestry programs and standards, provide technical guidance, and engage the community in caring for Monterey’s urban forest.
If you’re passionate about trees, community, and a healthy urban environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Nestled along California's Central Coast, the City of Monterey is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and sense of community. The City of Monterey is a full-service charter city operating under a Council-Manager form of government. The City of Monterey is a full-service city that provides police, fire, public works, planning, recreation, and parks services and operates its conference center, sports center, parking, and marina facilities.
The City of Monterey offers a competitive benefits package to full-time employees. Some of these benefits include a Health Spending Fund, Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, Vacation Accruals, Sick Leave, 14 Paid Holidays, Education Incentive Pay, Tuition Reimbursement Programs, CalPERS Retirement, and more!
A limited number of applicants who clearly show that they most closely meet the needs of this position in terms of training, experience, education, and other job-related characteristics will be accepted to participate in the selection process. This process will include evaluation and initial screening of the standard on-line City application to determine which candidates progress to the next phase of the recruitment process. The subsequent selection process may include a written test/written exercise, performance exercise, panel interview, and a final departmental interview. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to make changes to components of the examination process.
As a condition of employment, the selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a Live Scan fingerprint background check and reference check. Depending on the position, as a condition of employment, the selected candidate may also be required to pass a physical exam including a drug screen and a federal background check to gain access to military and police facilities and systems. Positions that require work on a military installation will involve job duties performed on-site and therefore require passing a background check conducted by the Department of Defense (DoD).
Candidates who successfully progress through all phases of this recruitment process will be placed on an eligible list. The eligible list is active for 12 months and may be used to fill additional positions including lower-level positions, regular part-time, and part-time temporary seasonal, determined to have similar duties and requirements.
The City of Monterey provides outstanding services to the public and is deeply committed to a community and workforce that is inclusive, equitable, and diverse. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified applicants, including underrepresented minorities that contribute to the diversification and enrichment of ideas and perspectives. The City of Monterey does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual’s status in any group of class protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
Under administrative direction, plans, coordinates, and supervises the City-wide urban forestry program, including the care and maintenance of trees on public properties, parks, greenbelts and forested areas. Provides specialized technical expertise and professional guidance in arboriculture and urban forest management; implements the City’s urban forestry plans, policies and standards; oversees and evaluates tree maintenance contractors; exercises independent judgement in resolving complex arboricultural and urban forestry issues; develops and implements public outreach and education programs to promote the protection and preservation of the City’s forest resources; and performs related work as required.
This is the most advanced classification in the Tree Maintenance series. The City Urban Forester is distinguished from the Assistant Urban Forester by advanced and specialized knowledge of arboriculture and urban forestry, responsibility for coordinating the City’s urban forestry program, and authority to provide technical guidance and professional recommendations on complex tree-related matters. The City Urban Forester serves as a primary resource for communicating the City’s tree-related policies, practices, and standards to the public and promoting the protection and preservation of the City’s forest resources.
Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Plans, coordinates, leads, and participates in the inspection, planting, removal, pruning, trimming and maintenance of trees on City property; provides operational leadership for Urban Forestry projects and activities.
- Develops, implements, and maintains Urban Forestry management plans, programs, standards, and practices; makes recommendations and decisions regarding urban forestry, tree management, and related planning and development activities.
- Develops recommendations and provides technical guidance related to urban forestry, tree management and urban development.
- Coordinates and monitors tree work performed by utility companies and other outside parties to ensure compliance with City requirements, standards, and applicable regulations.
- Instructs and provides technical guidance to personnel regarding good forestry and arboricultural practices, safe work methods, and the use and operation of related equipment.
- Inspect trees for pests, diseases, structural conditions, and other potential hazards.
- Diagnoses tree and plant health issues and recommends appropriate treatment, including chemical, cultural, and other management practices.
- Maintains current knowledge of developments in arboriculture, forestry practices, pest management, technology, and related regulations.
- Prepares budget recommendations and manages or assists with the procurement of materials, supplies, equipment, and services necessary to support Urban Forestry programs and operations.
- Operates tree and plant maintenance tools and equipment using safe and proper work methods and practices.
- Implements a public relations program for forest resources, prepares press releases and public information.
- Conducts tree surveys and develops, maintains, and analyzes inventories of the City’s tree population by species and age groups, condition, and other relevant characteristics.
- Prepares reports, contracts specifications, and other technical documents; solicits bids, administers and monitors contracts and contractor performance in the field; and reviews or processes payments to contractors.
- Communicates, interprets, and enforces the City’s Tree Ordinance and related policies, regulations, and standards.
- Responds to tree‑related emergencies and must be available after‑hours and for weekend work as needed.
- Support the relationship between the City of Monterey and the general public related to Urban Forestry programs and resources by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and City staff.
- Maintains confidentiality of work‑related issues and City information.
- Performs other job‑related duties within the scope of this job classification as assigned.
- Methods, tools and equipment used in the care and maintenance of trees, plants, and shrubs.
- Tree trimming and safety practices and equipment used in tree climbing.
- Plant and tree diseases and pests, and their eradication and control.
- Modern supervisory methods.
- Operation and maintenance of power equipment and tools used in tree work.
- Forest management principles, practices and planning methods.
- Scheduling, supervising and participating in the work of several crews.
- Making chemical tests of soils.
- Presenting information verbally and in writing.
- Maintaining accurate and complete records of work activities.
- Establishing and maintaining effective relationships with others.
Education: Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry or related field, including courses in arboriculture and horticulture, specializing in urban forestry.
Experience: Four (4) years in a supervisory capacity in tree and grounds care and maintenance.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Possession of a valid driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the City’s automobile insurance program.
- Must possess a valid certificate as a Certified Arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
- California Certified Pest Control Application License is desirable.
- Certified Arborist Municipal Specialist by the ISA certificate is desirable.
- ISA Tree Risk Assessment Certification is desirable.
- Standing & Walking – Standing for extended periods of time and/or walking distances (1 or more miles).
- Sitting - Ability to work in a seated position at a computer station for extended periods of time.
- Lifting - Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds; use proper lifting techniques including bending at the knees.
- Climbing - Ability to ascend 10 ft. or more up ladder(s).
- Manual Dexterity - The ability to perform multiple work activities requiring a significant level of physical and mental coordination, such as using hand and power tools; repair and calibration of instruments.
- Visual - Acuity for driving long periods; reading literature for long periods; industry warning signs and instruments; reading maps and diagrams, computer screen.
- Hearing and Speech - Ability to communicate in person and over the telephone.
- Mobility - Ability to operate a motor vehicle, and reach, push, pull, stoop, bend, and squat.
- Reflexes - Ability to quickly and automatically respond to emergency and safety situations.
- Wear and operate in protective equipment as assigned, when working in hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions, including but not limited to head protection, eye protection, respiratory protection, hand protection, foot protection, knee protection, and full body protection.
Work is performed in an office environment as well as outdoors with exposure to inclement weather; exposure to noise, dust, grease fumes, gases and potentially hazardous chemicals. Work is in and around moving vehicles and machinery. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. This position requires the ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays and be available for work on an emergency basis.
All City of Monterey employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker‑related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
This is a summary of benefits for employees holding classification in the Management Employees’ Association (“MEA”) bargaining unit. This summary is for information purposes only. More specific details regarding these benefits can be found in the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and MEA.
Exempt
CalPERS 2.7% @ 55 with highest year formula is provided for current City of Monterey employees or new employees who were hired prior to January 1, 2013, and who are currently active or have been active within six months of the date of hire in the CalPERS retirement system. The employee retirement contribution for these employees is 11% and is deducted on a pre‑tax basis. The CalPERS retirement formula for new employees who do not meet the criteria stated above is 2% @ 62 with highest three‑year compensation. The employee retirement contribution is 7.75% and is deducted on a pre‑tax basis. The City participates in the Medicare portion of Social Security.
For plan year 2026, the City shall make a non‑elective employer contribution to the flexible benefits plan on behalf of each active employee in this unit for use for health insurance, dependent dental insurance, additional life insurance, dependent care, and/or health care expenses through a Section 125 Flexible Spending Account in the following amounts:
Employee Only = $1,086.89
Employee + 1 = $2,223.60
Employee + 2= $2,872.83
Cash in lieu of benefits = $300.00
Fully paid employee premium by the City.
Fully paid premium for employee and eligible dependents by the City.
$50,000 policy paid by the City, with an option to purchase additional coverage up to $350,000.
The City provides a Short Term/Long Term Disability Plan.
City will match employee paid contributions to a maximum of $150.00 per month. Participants may contribute up to the maximum annual limit as specified by IRS guidelines.
The Section 125 Plan provides for an employee to set pre‑tax dollars aside, through a payroll deduction, for reimbursement of health care and dependent care expenses.
Subject to provider limitations, the City will continue to provide a Group Legal Services Plan for employees represented by MEA through an employee‑paid premium. Participation in the program shall be voluntary and consistent with the provider’s requirements that the potential pool of participants must include a minimum of 200 employees.
Subject to department approval, employees may be eligible for an allowance of $2,000 per fiscal year, per employee for reimbursement for costs incurred for job‑related course textbooks, seminars, conferences, and other accredited courses.
Fitness Pass Program available to use the City of Monterey Sports Center.
Employees are eligible to participate in a Fitness Activity Plan, allowing them to work out off‑duty in exchange for leave time accrued in a Fitness Leave Bank. Employees may accrue up to 40 hours per year (10 hours per quarter), with a maximum of 80 hours allowed in the bank. The Fitness Leave Bank has no cash value, and accrued time does not expire.
Resident Rates for City Recreation classes and programs for employees and immediate family household members.
Fully paid confidential counseling and referral service for employee and eligible dependents.
With advance approval, an employee may take up to forty (40) hours of unpaid leave per calendar year.
Management employees shall be provided with eighty (80) hours of management leave at the beginning of each calendar year. Newly hired managers will be awarded leave on a prorated basis depending on hire date.
14 paid days annually plus 1 floating holiday.
12 days per year.
1-5 years/10 days; 6-10 years/15 days; 11-15 years/ 17 days; 15+ years/20 days; 20+ years/23 days per year.
- Relocation assistance, sick leave and vacation balances and initial vacation accrual rate negotiable.
- Candidate selected will serve up to one-year probationary period.
- Candidates who pass the testing process will be placed on an eligibility list. This list may be used to fill additional positions (including subordinate positions) that become available during the life of the list.
- This bulletin is for informational purposes only and does not supersede rules regulations, ordinances and resolutions currently in effect.
- Pursuant to the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, employees must show proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
- The City of Monterey is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please answer all supplemental questions. Your responses are a required part of the hiring process and will be scored to help determine who moves forward. Provide complete answers—do not write “see resume” or “see application,” as this will be considered incomplete. Keep each response to 250 words or fewer. The text boxes do not count your words for you. All responses will be reviewed along with your full application. By continuing, you confirm that you have read and understand the Supplemental Questions Instructions.
Do you have a Bachelor's degree or higher in forestry or a related field?
Please indicate the total number of years you have worked in a supervisory role within tree and grounds care and maintenance.
Do you possess a valid driver's license?
Do you currently hold a valid Certified Arborist credential from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)?
Do you currently possess any of the following certifications or licenses relevant to the Urban Forester position: California Certified Pest Control Applicator License, ISA Certified Arborist – Municipal Specialist, or ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)? Please indicate which of these you hold and also list any additional certifications or licenses related to this position. If none, please enter "Not Applicable".
Please list all Bachelor’s and higher degrees you have completed, including the field of study. If none, please enter "Not Applicable".
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