Urban Forestry Field Specialist: Pruning, Safety & Care

City of Boulder; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 59,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Boulder is seeking an experienced forestry technician to maintain and enhance the health and aesthetics of public trees in city parks and rights-of-way. The role focuses on advanced pruning, removal, and safe operation of rope/saddle and aerial lift techniques, aligned with industry standards.

You will collaborate with contractors and internal staff, operate varied power tools and equipment, and help with tree planting, maintenance, and safety programs.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Urban Forestry, Forestry, Arboriculture, Natural Resources or closely related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Forestry or Natural Resources.
• Three years of progressive field experience in arboriculture or forestry.
• Ability to obtain ISA certifications within 9 months.

Responsibilities

• Perform urban forestry and arboricultural field operations to maintain a safe urban canopy.
• Prune and remove trees using rope/saddle techniques and aerial lifts.
• Prune smaller diameter trees for structure and clearance.
• Grind stumps and perform maintenance tasks (pesticide applications, mulching).
• Coordinate with the public, other city departments, and contractors on project timelines.
• Operate and maintain forestry equipment (chippers, grinders, backhoes, skid-steer, aerial lifts).
• Assist with Forestry programs and community events including Arbor Day Tree Planting.

Skills

Urban tree identification

Tree pruning

Rope & saddle techniques

Aerial lift Operation

Equipment operation

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Associate’s degree in Urban Forestry/related field

Bachelor’s degree in Arboriculture/Urban Forestry/Natural Resources

Tools

GIS software

Asset management software

MS Office

Job description

City of Boulder is seeking an experienced forestry technician to maintain and enhance the health and aesthetics of public trees in city parks and rights-of-way. The role focuses on advanced pruning, removal, and safe operation of rope/saddle and aerial lift techniques, aligned with industry standards.

You will collaborate with contractors and internal staff, operate varied power tools and equipment, and help with tree planting, maintenance, and safety programs.