Arborist

Under general supervision by the Tree Trimming Superintendent, within the Independence Power & Light Transmission and Distribution Unit, performs work involving coordinating and facilitating the trimming and removal of trees adjacent to overhead power lines in order to minimize tree related outages of electric service. Advises customers regarding appropriate tree species to plant to avoid eventual contact with overhead power lines. May assist with the supervision of the contract tree trimming crews. Determines tree trimming needs for electric line clearance on individual properties; enters into trimming agreements with customers for tree trimming activities; advises management of trimming agreements and predetermined trimming schedules, as necessary. Monitors agreements with nurseries and works with contractor’s General Foreman and crews to insure quality work and production of contracts in order to provide tree planting services to customers. Evaluates hazardous and dead trees on City property and street rights-of-ways for trimming or removal. Responds to citizen inquiries and resolves complaints concerning tree insect and disease problems, city ordinances and other forestry issues. Makes oral presentations to various groups on forestry issues and the City’s forestry program. Evaluates the forestry program and makes recommendations to improve work practices, procedures and equipment.

Minimum Qualifications: Associate Degree in Forestry or a related field. Minimum of one year related experience; or any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Must possess a valid Driver’s License and an Arborist Certification with the International Society of Arboriculture or equivalent. Must complete required NIMS level training within the first six months of hire.

Knowledge Of: Tree species and characteristics of trees. Site requirements and required tree clearances for electric transmission lines. Proper tree care techniques, including watering, mulching, corrective pruning, fertilizing, insect and disease control. City codes pertaining to trees and basic landscape design.

Ability To: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, other employees, and the general public. Give directions and gain compliance from subordinates. Organize and prioritize work, read technical materials and apply to various situations, and make public presentations. Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Identify trees during both summer and winter months and identify hazardous conditions in trees.  

Physical Demands:  Regularly required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, use hands to finger, handle, feel, and reach with hands and arms. Typical working conditions while performing this position, the employee is regularly exposed to outdoor weather conditions.

Background Check

Drug testing

In addition to the application, testing and/or examinations may be required for further consideration on this position.

IBEW Bargaining Unit Position

First consideration given to IBEW Power & Light applicants

Apply online at www.indepmo.org/hr. Position Open Until Filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 

The City of Independence is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. The City of Independence is a background screening, drug-free workplace.

The City of Independence provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for a job, please submit your request to humanresources-coi@indepmo.org.

Disclaimer: The above statements describe the general nature, level, and type of work performed by the incumbent(s) assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, demands, and skills required of personnel so classified.  Job descriptions are not intended to and do not imply or create any employment, compensation, or contract rights to any person or person.  Management reserves the right in coordination with the governing union (if applicable) to add, delete, or modify any and/or all provisions of this description at any time as needed without notice.  This job description supersedes earlier versions.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER – BILINGUAL SKILLS PREFERRED