Parks Equipment Operator - Arborist

 Parks Equipment Operator - Urban Forestry Arborist

HIRING RANGE: $22.16-$24.94/hour

About the Position

Working under the guidance of the City Forester, the Parks Equipment Operator - Arborist performs skilled arboricultural work in the establishment, maintenance, and preservation of the City’s urban forest. This position operates aerial lifts, grapple trucks, chippers, stump grinders, and other specialized equipment requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), frequently within street rights-of-way and active public areas where adherence to work zone safety and traffic control standards is essential, and commonly works from heights of up to 75 feet. Responsibilities include performing high-quality tree pruning, safe removal of hazardous trees, and proper planting and establishment of trees. The position requires the ability to assess tree condition and risk, apply sound judgment and problem-solving skills, and communicate effectively with the public in a professional, customer service–focused manner. The role also requires proficiency with technology, including the use and maintenance of a digital tree inventory system to accurately track tree data, inspections, and work history. Additional duties include supporting plant health care treatments (herbicide and pesticide applications), tree production, brush chipping, stump grinding, storm response, public education, snow removal, and installation of holiday lighting, all while working safely in physically demanding outdoor conditions.  

About the Parks and Recreation Department:

The City of Grand Junction's Park Operations Division includes Forestry, Open Space, Plant Health Care, Horticulture, River District, Sports Facilities, Cemeteries, Turf, and Irrigation. This Division operates and maintains over 350 acres of 35 developed parks, 285 acres of undeveloped parks, 55 acres of school properties, 57,000 public trees, 1,200 acres of open space, and 35 miles of trails with 45 full time positions and over 60 seasonal staff members.

What We Offer:

We know that a healthy and happy workforce is a thriving workforce, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports quality work-life balance including 32 days of paid annual leave to be used for holiday, personal, and/or sick days, health insurance options, employer-matched retirement, a City employee health clinic, wellness program, and an Employee Assistance Program. Of equal importance, we offer an opportunity to serve the community you love and live in. Our employees find their work rewarding and fulfilling, knowing that their day job makes a positive impact. 

Our Culture:

At the City of Grand Junction, we lead the way with continuous improvement, collaborative partnerships, and exemplary service. Our core values are demonstrated by our willingness to challenge the status quo, ability to work together using all areas of expertise to achieve a common goal, and commitment to fulfilling the needs of our community through thoughtful interactions.

What You'll Do:

• Perform high-quality tree pruning, safe removal of hazardous trees, and proper planting and establishment of trees.

• Operate aerial lifts, grapple trucks, chippers, stump grinders, and other specialized equipment requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Utilize chainsaws of various sizes while working aloft and on the ground
• Develop ability and skills to maintain trees through rope and saddle tree climbing
• Provide ground support for arboricultural operations including dragging, raking and chipping of brush
• Work from heights of up to and above 75 feet
• Assessment and mitigation of tree risk
• Use and maintenance of a digital tree inventory system to accurately track tree data, inspections, and work history
• Installation and take down of holiday lights 
• Provide high quality customer service with frequent contacts from residents 
• Provide support as needed for the great Parks and Recreation Department

To view the full job description, click here.

What We're Looking For:

• International Society of Arboriculture Certified Tree Worker or Certified Arborist credential

• Class B commercial driver’s license
• Minimum 3 years of experience with progressive responsibility in municipal tree care operations, or any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for excellent job performance.
• Associates degree in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Sciences, or related filed, or higher
• Experience managing tree inventory data

• Holds an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist credential or the ability to secure this credential within one year of employment.

• Hold a Class B commercial driver’s license or the ability to secure this license within 6 months of employment.

Candidates should also demonstrate a knowledge of:

• Arboricultural industry standards for proper tree care 

• ANSI standards for safe work practices 
• Aerial lift operation 
• Rope and saddle tree climbing skills 
• Operation and maintenance of chainsaws, brush chippers, and stump grinders
• Operation of skidsteers, backhoes, trailers, and power tools
• Insects and diseases that threaten the good health of trees within Colorado
• Maintenance management and Microsoft Office software
• Tree inventory data management through cellular enabled tablets

Ability to:

• Identify trees found within Colorado in all seasons

• Work independently and with a larger group of individuals 
• Establish and maintain accurate records, logs, and files
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing

Note: This is a safety-sensitive position, subject to random drug screens. 

Notice to Applicants:
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, we kindly request that you do not include the dates of your education to include years of attendance or graduation on your application, resume or attachments.

City Employee Health Clinic:
The City is committed to supporting the health and well-being of employees, and their families. Our near-site Sage Health & Wellness Center offers free or low-cost healthcare services for employees and their dependents enrolled in a City health plan. Services include preventative care, health assessments and coaching, treatment for common illnesses, lab services, physical therapy, a medical massage therapist, and behavioral health counseling. The clinic also offers wellness programs, challenges, and classes that empower employees and their families to stay healthy and thrive.

Explore the Area:

Grand Junction, Colorado, is the key access point to the mountains and canyonlands of western Colorado and eastern Utah. Centrally located between Denver, CO (250 miles east) and Salt Lake City, UT (270 miles west), Grand Junction was named for the convergence of the Gunnison River and Colorado River. Over 1.5 million acres of public lands connect the area’s alpine terrain with the dramatic high desert, nourished by powerful rivers that sustain the vibrant agriculture industry. Opportunities for outdoor adventures are abundant in every season due to the year-round temperate climate. Home to “Nature’s Trifecta,” Grand Junction is surrounded by the Colorado National Monument – a mini-Grand Canyon, Rattlesnake Arches – the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the world, and the Grand Mesa – the largest flat-top mountain in the world. Agritourism, art and history, boutique shopping, and trendy restaurants complement the outdoor recreation scene. With a population over 160,000 in Mesa County (over 70,000 within the City limits), Grand Junction has all the city amenities you expect with a hometown atmosphere that is friendly and comfortable. SeeVisit Grand Junctionfor more information.