Arborist

Are you passionate about trees and the great outdoors? Join our dynamic Parks Team as an Arborist and play a vital role in maintaining the health and beauty of our green spaces. As an Arborist, you'll be responsible for the care and management of trees within the parklands, ensuring they thrive and contribute to the well-being of our community. Your expertise in tree care, pruning, and safety will help preserve the environment and create safe, enjoyable spaces for all to appreciate. We want to hear from you if you're ready to make a lasting impact and work in a vibrant, nature-filled environment! 

You are a key member of the field staff and will work closely with the Parks team, responsible for the care, maintenance, and management of municipal trees and green spaces to enhance the urban environment. This position involves a variety of tasks related to tree planting, pruning, removal, pest and disease management, and health assessment.

You will support the development of long-term tree management plans for public lands and work closely with municipal teams, contractors, and the public to support urban forestry initiatives and contribute to the beautification of the community.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of tree species, plant health, pest management, and proper pruning and planting techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions in the field.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work in challenging environmental conditions.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills to track and manage multiple tree care activities.
• Reliable team player and ability to work with limited supervision.

Position Requirements:

• Conduct comprehensive tree hazard assessments and identify potential risks to public safety, including structural weaknesses, disease, and environmental factors.
• Perform pruning, trimming, and tree removal in public spaces such as streets, parks, and natural areas.
• Plant, stake, and maintain new trees, ensuring their proper establishment and growth.
• Operate and maintain tree care equipment, including chainsaws, aerial lifts, stump grinders, and other specialized tools.
• Develop and implement tree care and maintenance plans in line with municipal policies and best practices.
• Respond to emergencies, such as storm damage, fallen trees, and other tree-related hazards.
• Keep detailed records of tree health assessments, maintenance schedules, and work completed.
• Collaborate with municipal staff, contractors, and consultants to support urban forestry and green space projects.
• Educate the public about tree care, environmental sustainability, and urban forestry.
• Assist in managing the tree inventory, ensuring proper documentation and tracking of tree species and locations.
• Ensure compliance regarding tree care, safety, and environmental sustainability.
• Survey and assess landscape areas, draw sketches, and interpret plans working closely with the Planning and Development Department.
• Oversee hired contractors and ensure work is being conducted as quoted and that health and safety guidelines are being followed.
• Support Manager in writing requests for quotes and tender documents specific to the Parks Department Requirements.
• Review Towns of Blackfalds landscape designs ensuring conformance through the development agreements and construction process of new development areas within the Municipality.
• Assist in the development of Land Use Bylaws, Design Guidelines that pertain to Landscape construction, Community Standards Bylaws, and the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program.

Education and Experience:

• Post-Secondary Diploma in Horticulture, Arboriculture, or a related field.
• Certification as an Arborist from a recognized professional organization (ISA – International Society of Arboriculture, (UFN) Urban Forestry Network, (SMA) Society of Municipal Arborists) is strongly preferred.
• Chainsaw Safety Certification and Tree Felling Certification are considered assets.
• Minimum 3 – 5 years of progressive experience in arboriculture, and or urban forestry.

Additional Requirements:

• Alberta Pesticide Applicator License.
• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)
• Valid Driver’s License with current Drivers Abstract (preference Air Brake Endorsement).
• RCMP Criminal Record Check
• Standard First Aid with CPR “C” and AED
• Construction Completion Certificates (CCC) and Final Acceptance Certificates (FAC)

The hours of work are 80 hours every 2 weeks.

The hourly wage for the Arborist position is $35.48 / hour - $39.93 / hour as per the CUPE Local 417 Collective Agreement 2022 - 2024.

The posting closes Friday, April 25, 2025 @ 4:30 pm