Forestry Technician II

Description

The City of Wentzville is seeking candidates interested in joining our Department or Division team. Wentzville is one of the fastest-growing communities in the state. Come grow with us!

The Forestry Technician II is responsible for advanced tree care, including planting, removing, pruning, and assessing tree diseases and damage within the City. Primary duties involve planting and caring for trees, climbing trees or using a bucket lift to remove hazardous trees or limbs. The role includes providing technical guidance, direction, and training to fellow employees. Work is performed independently or in teams, requiring the selection of appropriate methods, tools, and materials. The work is reviewed through completed work orders and on-site inspections by the crew leader or Horticulture Manager. Occasionally, this tradesman leads crews or other technicians for specific projects and conducts training through demonstration. 

Essential Job Duties

• Provide respectful and professional service in all interactions between co-workers, internal and external customers and the public at large.
• Maintain a positive and productive environment ensuring compliance with policies, procedures, goals and objectives of the City, Department and Division.
• Train and lead the day-to-day task performance of crew members in work procedures based on workload and direction as provided by supervisor; train in proper maintenance and equipment procedures and directs task work; ensures that work is performed in a safe manner; provide coaching and support to crew as needed for task completion. 
• Provide lead direction and reviews completed work to ensure quality and completeness; provides input to the supervisor on staff performance.
• Perform advanced tree care activities, including trimming, removal, planting, cabling, and bracing of trees and shrubs.
• Climb trees or operate bucket lifts to access and work on trees at various heights.
• Assess and analyze tree health, identifying diseases, pests, and structural issues.
• Fell diseased, damaged, or dead trees that pose hazards to life or property.
• Provide technical guidance, functional direction, and training to fellow employees based on extensive knowledge and experience.
• Determine appropriate work methods, tools, and materials for most assignments.
• Lead crews or other technicians on specific projects when required.
• Train other employees through demonstration of proper techniques and safety procedures.
• Complete work orders and documentation of tree care activities.
• Assist with project planning, coordinating staff and schedules, and documenting project costs by keeping records of time and materials to be charged to each job and providing periodic status reports regarding the status of projects, material consumed, and man-hours utilized.
• Assist in preparing material and supply lists for projects and procuring necessary materials.
• Provide technical expertise in procuring equipment, staying informed about different equipment types, and recommending suitable tools.

The City of Wentzville is committed to being an employer of choice, offering prosperous and meaningful career opportunities and flexibility. The City offers excellent benefits, including health, vision, dental, employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability, a retirement pension, 13 paid holidays, five personal days, vacation time, sick time, tuition reimbursement, an employee assistance program, a discounted recreation center membership and much more.

This job posting will remain open until filled.

Qualifications

Job Qualifications – Education, experience, and training that are required or desirable in order to effectively perform the job at the time of hire. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered. Additional requirements and/or substitutions may be requested and require the approval of HR.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's degree in arboriculture, urban forestry, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of three years of experience in arboriculture or urban forestry.
• ISA Certified Arborist certification preferred.
• Aerial lift and bucket truck certification required.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a First-Aid/CPR certification within 1 year of hire date.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a Class A CDL with airbrake endorsement within 180 days of employment required. 
  • Valid driver’s license is required upon hire. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities – May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills, and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Advanced knowledge of tree biology, diseases, and proper care techniques.
• Proficiency in tree climbing and using aerial lifts, bucket trucks, and log loaders.
• Ability to identify various tree species and their specific care requirements.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols, especially when working near power lines, residences, and other infrastructure.
• Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills for training and guiding employees.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, maps, and technical documents.
• Skilled in safely removing and trimming trees using proper rigging methods and equipment.
• Knowledge of tree species commonly found in cities and parks, including their growth habits, susceptibility to pests or disease, and maintenance needs.
• Understanding of electrical hazards and safety rules.
• Proficiency in using, inspecting, and maintaining handsaws, chainsaws, and other equipment.
• Ability to demonstrate and practice proper pruning and removal techniques.
• Capable of driving a truck to job sites and instructing others in tool and equipment use.
• Skilled in preparing reports and maintaining accurate records.
• Efficiently organize and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines, delegating work when necessary.
• Ability to accept constructive criticism and adapt to new situations.
• Promote positive and effective working relationships with staff and external customers.
• Communicate effectively and professionally through various means.
• Develop goals and plans to accomplish work and concentrate on multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Work independently under moderate supervision and make responsible decisions.
• Maintain composure in challenging situations, exercising rational thinking.
• Proficient in operating computers and related software.
• Regular, reliable, and dependable attendance is essential.

Apply online- click APPLY Now.

The City of Wentzville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify.