Description:Protect Our Power. Preserve Our Trees. | Join Palo Alto's Urban Forest TeamAbout the OpportunityReady to take your arborist expertise to the next level? The City of Palo Alto's Urban Forestry team is seeking two talented professionals to join our elite municipal forestry program. Depending on qualifications, these positions may be filled at either the Tree Trimmer Line Clearer or Tree Trimmer Line Clearer Assistant level. Candidates are encouraged to apply for consideration at either or both levels based on their experience and qualifications.
With competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, these roles offer the chance to advance your career while making a lasting impact. As part of our crew, you will:
- Perform specialized tree trimming operations to maintain both our urban forest and critical utility infrastructure
- Work with advanced climbing techniques and aerial equipment to clear rights-of-way for electrical power lines
- Implement best practices in line clearance to ensure community safety and reliable electrical service
- Operate and maintain specialized equipment including aerial lift trucks, chainsaws, and brush chippers
- Establish and maintain safe work zones using proper safety practices and protective equipment
- Contribute to the health and sustainability of Palo Alto's 66,000-tree urban forest
- Collaborate with team members to deliver innovative tree care solutions
Your work will directly impact both the safety of our electrical infrastructure and the health of our urban forest, contributing to Palo Alto's reputation as a leader in municipal forestry management.
About Urban Forestry Palo Alto boasts one of the nation's most comprehensive and acclaimed urban forestry programs. Our city's commitment to environmental stewardship is evidenced by:
- 35 years as a Tree City USA recipient
- 7 years as a Tree Line USA electric utility
- A thriving urban forest of 66,000 trees that enhance property values and reduce urban heat
- A unique blend of technological innovation and environmental conservation
- One of only 15 municipalities in North America to earn Society of Municipal Arborists accreditation
Operating within the Public Services Division of the Public Works Department, our Urban Forestry section maintains city-owned trees, ensures utility line clearance, and implements the Urban Forest Master Plan. With a strong commitment to sustainability and excellence in public service, Palo Alto continues to set the standard for urban forest management.
About the City Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Palo Alto is a beacon of innovation and progress. Home to world-renowned tech giants like VMware, Hewlett-Packard, and Tesla, it's where groundbreaking ideas come to life. Beyond its technological prowess, Palo Alto offers:
- A rich tapestry of cultural and natural treasures
- Historic residential neighborhoods and vibrant shopping districts
- A thriving arts scene
- A unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication With a AAA bond rating and a reputation for well-managed governance, Palo Alto is committed to excellence in all aspects of city life.
Who We're Looking ForWe seek skilled professionals with qualifications matching either of these roles:
Tree Trimmer Line Clearer Requirements:
- Three years of experience in tree trimming and line clearance operations
- OSHA-approved Qualified Line Clearance/Tree Trimmer certification
- ISA Certified Tree Worker or Certified Arborist status
- Expert technical skills in tree climbing and aerial lift operation
Tree Trimmer Line Clearer Assistant Requirements:
- Two years of experience in tree trimming and line clearance operations
- Strong technical skills in tree climbing and aerial lift operation
- Ability to perform tree maintenance tasks and line clearing as directed
Common Requirements for Both Positions:
- High school graduate or GED preferred
- Valid California Driver's License with ability to obtain Commercial Class B license with tanker endorsement within six months of hire
- Ability to pass drug test as mandated by the Department of Transportation
- Strong commitment to safety and attention to detail
- Comfort working at heights and in various weather conditions
- Enthusiasm for urban forest management and public service
- Strong team collaboration skills
Your Future in Urban Forestry As our Tree Trimmer Line Clearer, you'll:
- Lead critical line clearance operations in one of America's most prestigious urban forestry programs
- Master state-of-the-art equipment and techniques
- Contribute to award-winning forestry initiatives
- Collaborate with a dedicated team of urban forest professionals
- Make a visible impact on Palo Alto's landscape and infrastructure
- Advance your career in municipal arboriculture
Why Join Us?- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
- Work in a nationally recognized urban forestry program
- Enjoy an outdoor work environment in a beautiful city
- Make a tangible impact on community safety and environmental sustainability
- Experience the stability of working for a AAA-rated city
- Be part of a team setting the standard for urban forest management
- Clear career progression pathway from Assistant to Line Clearer role
- Join a supportive team environment with opportunities for growth
Ready to grow your career with us? We're hiring for two positions that can be filled at either the Line Clearer or Assistant level based on qualifications. Candidates are welcome to apply for consideration at either or both levels. Apply today!
These positions are represented by the Service Employee International Union (SEIU).
Essential Duties:Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Confers with supervisor to plan, review work projects and make suggestions to better implement the job.
- Climbs trees using ladders, climbing equipment or works from bucket of an aerial lift truck boom to perform tree maintenance tasks, pruning or line clearing.
- Sprays and treats trees for infestation or fertilizing.
- Establishes safe work zones and adhere to safe work practices including the use of personal protective equipment.
- Operates all types of tree maintenance equipment such as aerial lift trucks, chainsaws, brush chippers, sprayers, stump grinders or other tools and equipment.
- Waters newly planted trees using water truck.
- Responsible for a high quality of work and safety within the crew.
Related Functions:
Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
Minimum Qualifications:Sufficient education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate possession of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities which would typically be acquired through:
- High school graduate or GED preferred.
- Three years experience in trimming trees involving tree climbing and clearing trees from electrical power lines.
- Possession of OSHA approved Qualified Line Clearance/Tree Trimmer certificate.
- Possession of Certified Tree Worker or Certified Arborist status from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or must acquire within six months of employment.
Special Requirements:
- Possession of a valid California Driver's License with ability to obtain Commercial Class B license with tanker endorsement within six months of hire date.
- Ability to pass drug test as mandated by the Department of Transportation.
Supplemental Information:The Selection Process:
- Applicants will receive recruitment status notifications via email. Governmentjobs.com account also has notification status updates.
- Applicants will be screened throughout the posting process and highly qualified candidates may be invited to interview at any time after the posting closes.
- The screening process for this position typically may include a virtual recorded interview and/or panel interviews preceding final interviews with the hiring manager or their designee.
Our online application system is provided by NeoGov . If you have problems while applying online, please contact NeoGov's Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday.
This position is represented by Service Employee International Union (SEIU).
Compensation (SEIU) : Comprehensive compensation plan, to learn more click HERE.
The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
For more details visit our Careers Page, by clicking
HERE. Learn more about our Memorandum of Agreements (MOAs) between the City and its bargaining units, by clicking
HERE. Closing Date/Time: 11/15/2024 11:59 PM Pacific