ARBORIST 1

General Responsibilities:

This is responsible skilled manual work in the care and maintenance of City trees and shrubs. The work includes the trimming, pruning, repairing, spraying and removal of trees; the preparation and planting of new trees; and the maintenance of related equipment. Work is performed under the general leadership of an Arborist 2 with overall supervision received from a Tree Trimmer Foreperson.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities:

Trim, spray, plant and remove trees (along streets and on other City properties) and perform other related tasks in conjunction with the care and treatment of City trees. Conduct related inspections and identify and treat diseases, tree injuries and infestations. Provide information to the public concerning tree trimming and related tree care activities.

Climb trees using ladders, rope and saddle, or other methods. Trim or cut branches using chain saws, handsaws or other equipment. Perform related maintenance. Perform tree removal with an aerial tower or rope and saddle.

Cable, bolt and guy weak branches and trees. Cut and remove decayed and diseased tree parts.

Prune small trees from the ground using a pole saw and pole prunes.

Operate, perform related safety checks, and assist in the maintenance of aerial towers, assigned vehicles and other equipment.

Pick up, prepare and plant new trees in housing developments, parks and other locations.

Operate brush chippers and large log hauling trucks.

Repair trees damaged by vehicles and storms.

Perform related work as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledges, Skills and Abilities:

Working knowledge of tree care and the methods, techniques and equipment used in pruning, trimming, spraying, planting and removal of trees. Working knowledge of the precautions and equipment necessary to perform the work safely. Ability to operate and maintain specialized tree trimming, forestry tools and equipment such as chain and hand saws, pole pruners, chipper, augers, ropes, ladders, dump truck, aerial tower and cabling and rodding equipment. Ability to climb trees and work with equipment at varying heights and angles. Ability to move ladders and lift logs and branches. Ability to perform very strenuous physical activity. Ability to work in adverse weather conditions. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and the general public. Skill in trimming, removing, repairing and planting trees. Ability to maintain required licenses and certifications. Ability to maintain adequate attendance.

Training and Experience:

Two years of responsible experience in tree trimming and related tree care activities which involved significant experience in operating specialized tree trimming equipment. Other combinations of training and/or experience which can be demonstrated to result in the possession of the knowledges, skills and abilities necessary to perform the duties of this position will also be considered.

Necessary Special Qualifications:

Possession of a valid Commercial Driver's License. Possession of or ability to obtain a Wisconsin State Pesticide Certification within the probationary period. Certification in CPR and first aid or the ability to obtain certification within the probationary period.