Arborist Specialist

The Arborist IA will be responsible for leading a team of arboriculture operations crew members, allocating tasks, checking and reviewing their work, and providing on-the-job training in tree care operations.

Key duties include responding to public inquiries, participating in preparing presentations and public demonstrations, and performing tree pruning operations around energized hydro lines and pruning boulevard and park trees using power saws and other hand tools.

The successful candidate will also be responsible for operating an aerial bucket truck, climbing boulevard and park trees when required, using ropes and safety harness, operating a chipping machine as needed, and occasionally carrying out cabling and bracing.

Education and Experience:

• Completion of the tenth school grade plus considerable experience in street tree operations and in the operation of a boom truck, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Experience in the use of climbing equipment and rigging techniques, and in planting and transplanting techniques.
• Utility Arborist – Certificate of qualification is required.
• Level I First Aid Certificate is required.
• Pesticide Applicator's Certificate when required
• Power System Safety Certificate is an asset.

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of arboriculture methods, standards and practices, City and Park Board safety protocols, and arboriculture and utility arboriculture safe work procedures.

Considerable knowledge of growth habits and maintenance requirements of various tree species, working knowledge of arboriculture pests and diseases, and integrated pest management practices.

Skill in the use of a variety of power and hand tools used in pruning, planting, removal, cable and bracing, pest control and general tree maintenance.

Skill in the use of safety harness and ropes used in climbing trees.

Skill in the operation and servicing of equipment used in the work and in the use of tools used in minor servicing and repair tasks.

Demonstrated ability to perform hazardous climbing and pruning tasks at considerable heights and ability to identify hazardous trees.

Ability to perform manual tasks under varying weather conditions.

Ability to identify hazardous and diseased trees and to take emergency remedial action.

Ability to understand and effectively carry out oral and written instructions with a minimum of supervision.

Ability to assign, check and review the work of subordinates performing semiskilled and unskilled tasks; participate in conducting performance reviews for same.

Ability to keep records related to work performed.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates.

Ability to meet the public and answer a variety of questions regarding tree management activities, and participate in preparing presentations and public demonstrations.

A current and valid Class 5 BC Driver's License or higher and a Satisfactory National Safety Code driving record.