City of Portland: Tree Planting Specialist
Position description:
Our Tree Planting Program is growing! We are hiring five Tree Planting Specialists (job class: Botanic Specialist II- Forestry) to increase the number of urban trees we plant and establish. These positions will have a significant impact on the future of Portland! We are striving to triple the number of urban trees we plant and establish in a few short years. Our goal is to coordinate the annual planting of 10,000 trees, with a focus on large, native, and evergreen trees in the right-of-way, private property, and parks.
Our program focuses on increasing tree canopy coverage in underserved communities. These include Black, Indigenous, People of Color, low-income, immigrant, and refugee communities. Our citywide tree planting strategy guides this effort.
Tree Planting Specialists manage complex urban tree planting and establishment programs. This includes the design, implementation, and closeout of planting projects in our planting programs, including the Free Street Tree Program and Yard Tree Giveaway. Each project step requires close coordination with internal and external partners, such as other city workgroups, contractors, and community groups. They also help train colleagues, delegate tasks, and provide feedback on performance. Tree Planting Specialists are leaders on our team.
Tree Planting Specialists work in the field and the office, all year round. Examples of field work include finding planting locations, leading planting events, and inspecting contractor work for quality control. Examples of office work include leading planning meetings, analyzing data, and preparing reports.
Successful Tree Planting Specialists have excellent communication, collaboration, and organization skills. They are flexible and eager to solve issues. They are motivated to promote environmental justice and collaborate with diverse communities. When it comes to trees, they are proficient in urban forestry practices. They also enjoy sharing their knowledge in accessible ways and are eager to continue learning.
Join us in our mission to create a more equitable urban forest! You will play an important role in shaping the future of Portland! Apply now to be part of our exciting growth and positive impact.
what you'll get to do:
- Manage tree planting programs to increase canopy coverage in underserved communities.
- Conduct field work to evaluate sites, choose the right species, train planting crews, and inspect work.
- Mentor and train support staff to survey locations, inspect nursery stock, and inspect contractor tree plantings. Create project schedules, check work quality, and provide coaching and feedback.
- Coordinate with property owners, contractors, and community partners.
- Communicate with the public by responding to concerns, providing customer service, presenting at public meetings, and fostering partnerships with community groups.
- Ensure highest quality tree procurement, planting, and establishment outcomes. Empower colleagues, contractors, nurseries, and volunteers to meet the same standards.
- Document each process by making standard operating procedures and contractor progress reports.
- Collect and interpret tree data in software, like ArcGIS, to track and communicate program progress.
- Create reports and maps to share information with contractors, community partners, and colleagues.
required qualifications:
The following minimum qualifications are required for this position:
- Experience leading urban forestry projects, such as site evaluation, tree procurement, tree planting, young tree pruning, and/or tree establishment.
- Experience using GIS or similar software to collect and manage data for projects, reports, and maps.
- Experience working effectively with underserved groups (such as Black, Indigenous, People of Color, low-income, immigrant, and refugee communities) and communicating cross-culturally.
- Experience managing projects with multiple partners and diverse interest groups, such as community partners, contractors, and property owners to meet program goals and deadlines.
Applicants must also possess:
• A valid state driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• The ability to perform both office and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• The ability to sit, stand, and walk over uneven terrain.
• The ability to stoop or bend.
• The ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
To Apply:
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/5060220