Park Grounds Improvement Supervisor

Position Information

The Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Urban Forestry, Horticulture Services Branch, is looking for a candidate to lead the oversight of the beautification and maintenance of City-owned property along City roadways, sidewalks, and public spaces by coordinating crews and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in a timely manner. This position coordinates operations through subordinate supervisors, supports contract and budget administration, and ensures work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with professional standards.

The incumbent will supervise staff by preparing performance evaluations and, when necessary, conducting investigations related to disciplinary actions.

Key focus: guide crews who work for the city’s canopy.

• Plan, assign, and coordinate arboriculture crews island-wide; supervise multiple crews and projects to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Supervise work through subordinate supervisors and ensure efficient use of staff and equipment.
• Monitor contracts and inspect contractor and developer work for quality and compliance.
• Investigate incidents, accidents, and public complaints; prepare reports and recommendations.
• Assist with budgeting, procurement, and resource planning.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, licensing, and certification requirements, and the proper use of equipment.
• Coordinate with City departments, contractors, agencies, and community organizations on projects and improvements.

There is one (1) vacancy in the Nursery and Landscape Section located at the Kapiolani Nursery. This position will:

• Plan and coordinate nursery and grounds maintenance programs for parks, streetscapes, and public spaces, including high-visibility areas such as Kuhio Beach and Queen Kapiolani Garden.
• Develop and improve landscape maintenance practices, with emphasis on irrigation systems.
• Conduct and oversee experimental programs to evaluate new and adaptable plant species.
• Research and evaluate fertilizers, insecticides, and other treatments to support plant health and landscape sustainability.

There is one (1) vacancy in the Arboriculture Section located at 3902 Paki Ave. This position will:

• Determine appropriate methods and specialized equipment (e.g., cranes, chippers, stump removers) for tree maintenance operations.
• Monitor tree maintenance contractors; inspect work quality and issue corrective actions as needed.
• Assess tree health, structural conditions, and risk factors, including disease, infestation, and storm damage.
• Respond to hazardous tree emergencies, including off-hour situations.

• Handle and apply chemicals, including working in areas treated with chemicals.
• Work independently in remote or mountainous locations without access to drinking water, restrooms, or electricity.
• Work evenings or weekends for pesticide/herbicide application, specialist projects, events, or emergency response.
• Serve as a Disaster Response Worker during declared emergencies.
• Work Schedule:
  
  Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Arboriculture Section).
• Respond to emergency work in inclement or extreme weather.
• Work under or near fallen trees, near roadways in low-visibility conditions, around live electrical lines damaged by fallen trees, in off-road conditions.
• Work after hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Enjoy excellent employment benefits, including generous time off—up to 21 vacation days, 21 sick leave days, and holidays—comprehensive health coverage, retirement plan, career development, and more. View details about all our available benefits by visiting the Benefits tab or https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Citizenship:
At the time of application, you must be a citizen, national, or permanent resident alien of the United States or a non-citizen eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment.

Graduation from a regionally-accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, or a related field.

Work experience may be substituted for a…