Vegetation Specialist

Vegetation Specialist

Applications are now being accepted for a Vegetation Specialist in the Maintenance Department at the Ada County Highway District in the Boise, Idaho area. This is a non‑exempt position with a hiring range of $25.10 - $30.50 per hour, DOQ.

ACHD offers an excellent benefit package with medical, vision and dental insurance, paid vacation and holidays, paid parental leave, 401K match and membership in the Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI).

Primary Responsibilities:

• The vegetation specialist will perform skilled tree removal, pruning, trimming, and general tree care in accordance with industry standards and safety regulations, operate specialized and heavy equipment used for vegetation maintenance and right‑of‑way clearing, apply herbicides within public rights‑of‑way using specialized equipment, ensuring proper handling, application methods, and environmental compliance and train and guide crew members on equipment operation, proper tree care techniques, herbicide application, and safety procedures.
• They may serve as on‑site lead during work activities, directing crews and ensuring productivity, quality of work, and safety compliance when supervisor is unavailable, oversee the placement of work zone signage to ensure compliance with mobile operations or the MUTCD, maintain records related to work performed, equipment use, and herbicide applications.
• Responding to winter weather conditions and other emergencies is an essential function of this position and may require working outside of normal work hours.

Qualifications:

• Must have a current Idaho Class A CDL license or the ability to obtain one within 6 months of employment. If license is from another state, must be able to obtain an Idaho CDL by start of employment. Must obtain a tanker endorsement within 30 days of employment. Candidates without a Class A CDL may be considered for a General Equipment Operator CDL Training Opportunity.
  
  Within the first 6 months of employment must attend District provided CDL training course and complete required training and tests to obtain Idaho Class A CDL with Tanker endorsement.
• ISA Arborist certification is required or the ability to obtain within 18 months. An Idaho Professional Applicator’s License with Right‑of‑way endorsement is required or must be obtained within 6-months.
• Must have considerable knowledge of arboricultural practices, including tree removal, pruning, and general tree care, equipment operation and safety practices necessary for effective vegetation management, and knowledge of herbicide handling, application techniques, and safety requirements.
• Good knowledge of functions, operation and care of construction and maintenance equipment, proper operation and maintenance requirements of arboricultural tools and equipment, and hazards associated with maintenance and construction activities in the public right of way and applicable safety precautions.
• The ability to perform mechanical maintenance and repairs, communicate effectively orally and in writing, safely supervise, mentor and train others on equipment operation and vegetation management practices, and herbicide application, pass a background check with the Sheriff’s department to work with the SLD program.
• Previous experience in the arboricultural field, AIS current arborist certification is preferred or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Must be able to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds while performing job duties.

An AA/EEO/ADA Employer

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulation

Salary/Compensation: $25.10 - $30.50 per hour