Associate Urban Forester

Are you looking for a position with a work/life balance? Do you want to earn four (4) weeks off during your first year of employment? Do you want low and no cost health insurance options? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you need to complete your application now. Work for the city you love!!!

The Public Works Department is actively seeking an Associate Urban Forester.

Did you know as a City of Jacksonville employee, you would also have twelve (12) paid holidays and a personal leave day as well? In addition to health insurance, dental, vision, life insurance and flexible spending plans are also available. City of Jacksonville employees are also eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness after ten (10) years of public service and on-time payments.

This is an entry level support of urban forestry activities as it relates to county-wide tree planting projects and maintenance. The work requires knowledge of the techniques, methods, and procedures of urban forestry, arboriculture, botany, and horticultural which are learned on the job through specialized training. The work requires courtesy, tact, and effectiveness in dealing with others and the public to request or provide information, ask questions, or obtain clarification.

The work is semi‑routine in that tasks are covered by procedures or precedents, but some latitude is permitted to consider the most appropriate method, technique, or procedure to follow. Work is performed in both an office and field environment where risks and hazards are minimal, known, predictable, and controllable. Work requires skill in listening; communicating clearly and concisely, verbally, and in writing;

ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data and effectively present ideas, concepts, recommendations, and conclusions. Operates a utility vehicle and standard office equipment such as computer, calculator and copier. Physical demands consist mainly of visually inspecting trees, using equipment and occasionally lifting objects weighing less than fifty (50) pounds. Work is performed under general supervision where the work assignments are varied and although subject to standard practices and procedures, the worker is permitted some latitude to set own priorities subject to supervisor’s approval.

• Conducts field studies, compiles data, and prepares recommendations.
• Monitors planting projects.
• Prepares and maintains computerized record systems of studies and projects.
• Assists in the preparation and analysis of data and information.
• Operates a computer using word processing, spreadsheet, related software applications including but not limited to (Excel, Word, PowerPoint & Outlook).
• Maintains a database and inventory of the City's trees.
• Responds to citizen right-of-way planting requests through the MyJax System.
• Responds to public damaged tree claims and assists with the replanting of trees.
• Demonstrates proficiency in the City of Jacksonville's competencies.
• Performs related work as required.

• Knowledge of the techniques, methods, and procedures used in botany, arboriculture and horticultural.
• Knowledge of urban forestry practices, including planting.
• Knowledge of methods, materials, equipment, and tools used in urban forestry operations.
• Knowledge of basic species of trees and of their growth, maintenance conditions, and needs.
• Knowledge of soils, fertilizers and methods of plant cultivation compatible with local environmental conditions.
• Skill in word processing and database management.
• Ability to communicate, work cooperatively & effectively with a diverse population, including but not limited to, elected officials, superiors & staff.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to conduct field studies, compile data, and prepare recommendations and reports.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and files.
• Ability to operate a utility vehicle and standard office equipment such as a computer, calculator, and copier utilizing word processing and spreadsheet applications.

• Two (2) year combination of education and/or experience in urban forestry support work or current enrollment in a two or four-year college-level arboriculture, urban forestry,…