Position Description
Vision: Seattle is a thriving and equitable community powered by dependable transportation.
Mission: To deliver a transportation system that provides safe and affordable access to places and opportunities.
The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is a nationally recognized municipal transportation agency at the leading edge of multi-modal transportation. In our quickly growing city, accessibility, safety, affordability, and reliability – are top of mind for us every day! Our core values drive our work toward creating an equitable, sustainable, and vibrant city for all. SDOT’s core responsibilities include maintenance and operations of the city’s transportation right-of-way, the expansion of the city’s bicycle and pedestrian network, care of over 240 bridges, permitting use of public spaces and enhancing access to the regional transit system. With approximately 950 dedicated staff, SDOT maintains an operational presence 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in all weather conditions to serve and ensure Seattle’s public mobility.
Position Overview:
This position works within a team of arborists, to manage tree removal, pruning and planting activities within the street rights of way throughout the city. Arboriculturist work with residents, private contractors, other SDOT groups and other city departments to preserve, protect and expand the street tree canopy. They evaluate or prescribe pruning plans, diagnose tree insect/disease issues, manage contractors, approve or prescribe tree removals and otherwise manage the street tree resource.
Work Hours/Days/Shift:
Monday – Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30pm.
Job Responsibilities
Inspects city trees and plantings for disease treatment and pruning needs. Works with SDOT and private projects to evaluate pruning needs and assists with providing specifications and coordinating in house or contractor work. Monitors work of crews to ensure completion.
Investigates and responds to complaints, permit requests or service requests from the public.
Works with other SDOT divisions to mitigate impacts to street trees in relation to sidewalk repair, curb ramp installation or other maintenance projects which can impact trees.
Coordinates with other departments or external agencies to provide or approve services necessary for planting, pruning or removing of trees.
Appraises value of trees.
Develops and manages project budget for acquisition and maintenance of trees and plantings.
Orders and inspects plant and tree materials. Monitors in house or contract crews who are responsible for establishment of newly planted trees.
Maintains inventory of right of way trees.
Plans and conducts training sessions for staff and/or the public in the care, installation and maintenance of trees and plantings.
These responsibilities are only a summary of typical functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. May perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, Forestry, Natural Resources, Botany, or related field.
Experience: Requires a minimum of three years of experience in the care, planting, and maintenance of trees and plant materials. Demonstrated experience in supervision or lead work is required.
OR: An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the position duties.
Desired Qualifications:
ISA Certified Arborist
ISA TRAQ Qualified
Experience in establishing and monitoring tree protection on construction sites.
Experience with root pruning or using other means to preserve trees in relation to sidewalk repair.
Experience in public speaking or other outreach activities.
Other Requirements:
Work Environment / Physical Demands: Required to work in all weather conditions and stand, bend and walk for extended periods. Occasional exposure to toxic chemicals and pesticides is required.
Licenses: Current Washington state driver’s license.
Additional Information
Your application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.
Hiring Process
Applications are reviewed after the posting closes. Qualified candidates must submit the following to be considered:
Completed NEOGOV online application.
Supplemental questionnaire responses
Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education.
Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications.
Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, including potential background check, pre-placement physical exam, and full driver’s abstract.
Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
This recruitment process may be used as needed for up to six months to fill additional regular or temporary positions, depending on hiring needs to hire qualified candidates for this position.