Forestry Maintenance Worker

• Performs tree care and maintenance by performing corrective pruning and general pruning as required, planting and removing of trees, identifying and assessing for diseases and defects of trees located in parks and on public grounds.
• Operates and maintains potentially hazardous equipment, including chainsaws, to trim and remove trees; ensures equipment and machinery is operating safely and properly by performing preventative maintenance, identifying problems with equipment, replacing faulty or problematic parts and repairing equipment as needed.
• Assists with landscape installations and maintenance by tilling beds and installing edging for color beds; assists with tractor operations for installations of new trees and completing work orders.
• Educates citizens and other employees about field and park conditions by replying to questions and inquiries and directing citizens to the appropriate departments.

Education and Experience

Work requires broad knowledge in a general professional or technical field. Education and experience that provide the necessary knowledge and skills may also be considered, but a typical way to qualify is by obtaining:

• High School Diploma or equivalent with one (1) year of relevant experience trimming and pruning trees, and general maintenance of trees. Preference for rigging and climbing knowledge and felling of trees.

Conditions of Employment

• Safe driving record and Valid Class C Texas Driver's License
• Clear criminal background check and pre-employment drug screen

Hours/Work Schedule

• This is a full-time non-exempt position with benefits.
• Schedule maybe modified if department needs arise.
• May be required to work overtime if needed.

Physical Requirements (Heavy)

• Frequently performs physically demanding outdoor work in parks, medians, and public grounds for extended periods of time.
• Requires the ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb while performing tree care and landscape maintenance duties.
• Must be able to safely operate chainsaws and other power equipment used for tree trimming, pruning, and removal.
• Requires the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull heavy materials such as tree limbs, equipment, and landscaping materials, typically up to 50 pounds, and occasionally more with assistance.
• Requires manual dexterity and hand strength to operate hand tools, power tools, and mechanical equipment.
• Requires the ability to climb ladders and work at elevated heights when trimming or removing trees.
• Requires the ability to load and unload equipment, tools, and materials from trucks and trailers.
• Requires the ability to work in varying outdoor conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and exposure to dust, pollen, insects, and other environmental elements.
• Requires the ability to operate tractors, trailers, and other landscape maintenance equipment.
• Requires visual acuity to identify tree diseases, defects, and hazards, as well as to safely operate equipment.
• Requires the ability to communicate with coworkers and the public regarding work activities and park conditions.
• Requires the ability to respond to emergencies or urgent maintenance needs as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic arboriculture practices, including tree planting, pruning, trimming, and removal techniques.
• Knowledge of tree species commonly found in the region and the ability to identify tree diseases, pests, and structural defects.
• Knowledge of proper tree care, maintenance standards, and safety practices related to forestry and landscape maintenance.
• Knowledge of the safe operation, maintenance, and care of hand tools, power tools, chainsaws, and other forestry equipment.
• Knowledge of preventative maintenance procedures for equipment and the ability to identify mechanical issues.
• Skill in safely operating equipment such as chainsaws, pole saws, tractors, and other landscape maintenance equipment.
• Skill in performing general landscape maintenance tasks, including planting trees, preparing soil, tilling beds, and installing edging.
• Skill in maintaining equipment by cleaning, inspecting, repairing, and replacing parts as needed.
• Ability to work safely around potentially hazardous equipment and in outdoor environments.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and complete assigned work orders efficiently.
• Ability to identify hazards, assess tree health, and determine appropriate maintenance actions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and the public.
• Ability to provide basic information to citizens and direct questions or concerns to the appropriate department.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team to complete maintenance and forestry projects.
• Ability to organize work tasks and manage time effectively to meet operational needs.