About the Department

Under general supervision, the Arborist performs skilled and manual tasks such as trimming, pruning, spraying, planting and removing trees along City streets, on City property, and in some park areas. Incumbents may serve as lead workers over seasonal/temporary workers.

Position Duties

• Performs all duties designated to the Arborist, maintains the Urban Forest, conducts disease diagnosis, prevention and inspections.
• Has knowledge of best pruning practices, and common tree knowledge
• Maintains all boulevard trees on City-owned properties.
• Receives and responds to inquiries and complaints from the public regarding forestry issues; provides advice and information. 
• Ability to operate, aerial lifts, chain saws, pruning tools, stump grinders, tool cats, brush chipper and any other equipment used in the maintenance of City owned trees.
• Stakes tree planting locations; inspects tree plantings.
• Supervises and trains City employees regarding pruning methods.
• Attends workshops to stay informed of new tree pests and problems.
• Performs snow and ice removal as assigned, including streets, sidewalks and bike paths.
• Works safely, follows safe work practices, and identifies and reports unsafe work conditions.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS 
Work is performed within City facilities and job site locations that will require sitting, squatting, bending, crawling, climbing, and reaching. The incumbent may be required to occasionally perform a full range of motion with lifting and/or carrying items weighing up to 70 pounds. The incumbent may be required to work at heights greater than 50 feet.   The mental and physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT 
Activity may involve being in and around moving equipment. Activity is subject to weather conditions of the seasons, fumes, gasses, and exposure to dust. The environment may also involve falling limbs, bucket trucks, chainsaws, etc. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential functions of this position.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Two or more years of previous experience in caring for trees including the operation of forestry or related equipment
• Equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.
• Arborist Certification with the International Society of Arboriculture.
• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) within one year of hire.
• Ability to create and maintain effective working relationships with peers, superiors, other City departments, residents, vendors, contractors, external government agencies and organizations.
• Strong communication skills, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License with tanker and air brake endorsements within six months of hire
• Electrical Line Clearance Qualified, aerial rescue training, and CPR/First Aid Certified required within one year of hire.
• Chainsaw Safety Certification.

Other Qualifications

Benefits

• Retirement: Defined Contribution Plan or NDPERS Pension if eligible
  • Up to 15.26% Employer Contribution on Defined Contribution Plan, 16.26% Employer Contribution for Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Main, Main 2020, Public Safety). Inquire with HR for eligibility, conditions and details. 
• High-Deductible Health Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution match   
• Dental Insurance   
• Vision Insurance   
• Flexible Medical and Dependent Care Spending Accounts   
• Long Term Disability   
• Life Insurance   
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance   
• Vacation Accruals   
• Sick Accruals   
• Personal Days

Inquire with HR for additional information on our benefits package, including rates and employer contributions. 

Supplemental Questions

01

Are you currently a Certified Arborist with the International Society of Arboriculture?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you hold a North Dakota commercial pesticide applicator license?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Agency Information

Employer

City of West Fargo

Department

Public Works

Address

810 12th Ave NW








West Fargo, North Dakota, 58078