Job Id #30425: Forestry Investigator

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason
- **Job ID #30425: Forestry Investigator**:

- **Union**: CUPE Local 5167
- **Job Description ID #: 709**:

- **Duration**:18 Months,

**SUMMARY OF DUTIES**

Reports to Supervisor, Urban Forestry. Responds to and investigates forestry service requests, development reviews and general forestry related issues. Makes recommendations on corrective action and performs work in the care and culture of trees. completes tree risk assessment and updates asset information as directed.

**GENERAL DUTIES**

Receive and investigate forestry service requests/claims and development reviews.

Inspect trees and complete tree risk assessments as required; diagnose, assess routine and complex problems and conditions including plant health, proactively and routinely inspects trees for condition assessments, undertakes quality control and documents findings for contractors, tree preservation requirements and tree planting.

Write detailed reports and record problems and condition assessments; determine and recommend appropriate corrective action.

Determine appropriate equipment and personnel requirements for forestry operations. Prioritize hazardous situations.

Receive and answer public inquiries with respect to forestry investigations and operations and liaise with the public to address work site issues.

Carry out corrective control measures for disease and insect infestation. Determine appropriate pesticide use; injection trees.

Determine appropriate forestry maintenance required including pruning, removal, bracing, stumping planting and fertilizing. Drive a service vehicle; load and unload equipment and debris.

Research and collect data for forestry projects.

Receive utility information for utility locates.

Operate equipment such as, but not limited to; chain saws, pruners, brush chipper.

Participate in the evolution of performance standards, standard operating procedures, training requirements, technology and work procedures.

Perform forest maintenance duties such as spraying, trimming, removals.

Liaise with City staff from other sections/departments, members of the public (customers), contractors and suppliers in all Forestry related duties.

Plant or transplant trees as required per supervisor’s instructions.

Requisition and maintain an inventory.

Perform forestry operations in all weather conditions.

Responds to hazardous tree event/s assigned by Supervisors. Reduce or eliminates hazard by use of a chainsaw or pole pruner/pole saw

Perform other duties as assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job.

Work in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational health and Safety.

**QUALIFICATIONS**
- Proven experience in forestry operations normally acquired through a combination of education and relevant experience.
- Extensive experience in all types of arboriculture work including pruning, removal, bracing, stumping, planting, fertilizing and work around energized conductors.
- Must have a substantial understanding of tree morphology, physiology and dendrology of those tree species common to the Hamilton area.
- Must have previous leadership experience directing and coaching staff and working with crews to foster a positive working environment.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with public, peers, supervisory staff, other departments and other agencies, both verbally and in written form, in responding to inquires and/or complaints
- Must have good working knowledge of the Municipal Act, Forestry Act and City of Hamilton By-Laws
- Must be proficient and have demonstrated knowledge in the use of computers, mobile technology, other electronic devices and various software programs; such as. GIS, Word, Excel, Microsoft Outlook, asset management software, and other relevant programs
- A working knowledge of Asset Management Software and additional knowledge in tree management/maintenance software would be an asset.
- Must possess Certification in the Safe Operations and Maintenance of a Chainsaw.
- Must possess’ a valid First Aid/CPR Certificate.
- Must be able to lift a minimum of 18 kgs. occasionally with an occasional requirement to lift to 45kgs
- Ability to obtain an Electrical Utilities and Safety Association Line Clearing Operations Certificate, La