Job Abstract

This position is responsible for performing skilled tree maintenance at City facilities, parks, and along rights of way. The working conditions can be dangerous with the incumbents using rope and saddle, and climbing trees to heights which could exceed 100 feet. The work has standardized practices and procedures and is subject to general supervisory review by a Crew Supervisor – R&P II.

• Inspects on a daily basis all personal equipment including ropes, saddle, and saws, etc.
• Performs pruning in accordance with industry standard, American National Standard A300 (ANSI) and National Arborist Association standards.
• Complies with ANSI Z133.l and A300 for tree care operations.
• Removes dead, dying, or hazardous trees from parks, facility grounds, and rights of way.
• Rigs hazardous trees for removal using ropes, block and tackle and pulleys.
• Uses and maintains a variety of equipment including aerial lift truck, dump truck, chipper, backhoe, chain saws and various hand tools.
• Inspects aerial lift truck prior to operation.
• Ascends trees using rope and saddle to heights which could exceed 100 feet.
• Assists other crews in pruning, chipping, and brush and storm damage cleanup.
• Quickly and efficiently cleans up tree debris after storm related events working in all weather conditions.
• Assists with special events as requested.
• Inspects occasionally work of contractors for compliance with the contract.
• Completes work orders.
• Assists other crews as needed, i.e., mowing. Leaf collection, flower installation, and general parks maintenance.
• Performs other duties as required.

Education and Experience:
High school diploma; and three (3) years of progressively responsible work in the tree care industry; plus experience climbing, using a rope, and saddling; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Qualifications:
Possession of, or ability to obtain a motor vehicle class CDL operator's license as issued by the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles (or an equivalent license issued by the employee's state of residence) within 30 days of employment.

• Knowledge of associated tree care industry standards.
• Knowledge of all hazards associated with tree maintenance and with the use of associated equipment.
• Knowledge of operation procedures for aerial lift. Knowledge and understanding of overhead utilities, electrical conductors, and power lines.
• Knowledge of acceptable standards for pruning, cabling and bracing and associated tree maintenance.
• Skill in technical climbing with rope and saddle.
• Ability to identify defects and hazards associated with trees.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with coworkers, and City staff, and to communicate when necessary to the general public.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to do extremely strenuous manual work in all weather conditions.