Arborist II

About the position

The Arborist II position at the City of Sarasota is a full-time role focused on maintaining the health, function, and value of the City's Urban Forest Infrastructure. This position involves a variety of responsibilities, including inspecting and monitoring the work of landscape and tree contractors within the City's Rights-of-way and properties. The Arborist II will collect and maintain tree information using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, ensuring accurate data management and reporting. The role requires active participation in the removal of dead and hazardous trees, as well as trimming and maintaining trees to promote their health and stability. In addition to monitoring contractors and landscape staff, the Arborist II will collaborate with the Neighborhoods Department to oversee street tree installations, ensuring compliance with proper grades and standards. The position also involves performing essential arboricultural tasks such as planting, transplanting, cultivating, trimming, fertilizing, pruning, and tree removal. The Arborist II will maintain an electronic database of records related to tree management activities, which is crucial for tracking the health and maintenance of the urban forest. The job requires the ability to work in various weather conditions, including high heat, and involves strenuous physical activity. The incumbent will be expected to perform job-related tasks beyond those specifically outlined in the job description, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in their role. This position is under the direction of the Department Head or a designated representative, and the Arborist II will also be responsible for assigning work to landscape staff, providing technical advice and guidance as needed.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and monitor the work of landscape and tree contractors within the City's Rights-of-way and properties.
• Collect and maintain tree information using GPS technology and download it to the computer.
• Monitor contractors and landscape staff during the removal of dead and hazardous trees and trimming of trees.
• Oversee street tree installation for proper grades and standards in collaboration with the Neighborhoods Department.
• Monitor yearly maintenance of street trees for growth and stability.
• Perform planting, transplanting, cultivating, trimming, fertilizing, pruning, and tree removal.
• Maintain an electronic database of records concerning tree management activities.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED.
• Five years of experience in landscape maintenance activities or equivalent education, training, and experience.
• Possess and maintain a Certified Arborist Certification.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Class 'B' or higher State of Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within six months of employment.
• Working knowledge of methods and equipment used in the maintenance and care of trees.
• Knowledge of potential safety hazards and applicable safety precautions in arboriculture.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with desktop computer systems, including spreadsheet, database, and word processing software.
• Knowledge of basic OSHA requirements applicable to arboriculture operations and maintenance.
• Ability to detect plant and tree diseases and determine appropriate corrective measures.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits through the Florida Retirement System (FRS).
• Health insurance coverage.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.