Arborist 1

**The Opportunity**:
The City of Red Deer is currently recruiting for an **Arborist 1** to fill a seasonal position. The Arborist 1 is responsible for the operation of a bucket truck and aerial lift for the purpose of providing ground and aerial tree care to City owned trees; duties include a number of tasks related to tree care, such as ladder pruning, tree removal (both large and small), and fire management.

They are involved in the assessment and removal of hazardous trees using technically sound and safe rigging techniques. This position will also be required to operate a bucket truck to place and remove banners, ornamental lights, decorations, etc., operate a woodchipper, participate in tree planting projects, install and maintain rodent protection for trees, install and maintain ornamental tree grates and guards, and assess tree health. They may be required to function periodically as a crew leader to provide direction to Parks Labourers on a project basis.
- Diploma* in arboriculture or related discipline with two years’ related experience
- Valid class 5 Alberta driver’s license
- Thorough understanding of tree biology.
- Knowledgeable of established pruning and felling techniques.
- Proficient understanding of tree insects and diseases and with Integrated Pest management (IPM) treatment practices.
- Experienced in the operation of bucket trucks.
- Efficient and effective time management skills.
- Adaptable to changing tasks with short notice.
- Positive communication skills.
- Physically fit, in order to meet the demanding work required of this position.
- Proficient in the use of hand and power tools for the purpose of pruning, removing trees, and maintaining hedges, both from the ground and in a bucket truck.
- Assets:

- ISA Arborist certification
- Air Brake (Q) certification
- TRAQ qualifications
- Valid First Aid/CPR certificate
- Pesticide Applicators License
- Council of Tree Appraisers (CTLA) Qualified
- Disciplines related to arboriculture, combined with four years’ experience, may be considered.

**Affiliation**:
Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 417

**Remuneration**:
$30.65 to $32.45 per hour

**Hours of Work**:
80 hours biweekly as scheduled; Monday to Friday; and cyclical rotation of evening and weekend work is required when needed.

**Additional Information**:
The expected duration for the 2024 season may be between 7 and 11 months.