Arborist and Park Coordinator

Position Overview

Plan, implement and direct a comprehensive urban forestry program encompassing natural resource conservation, programmed maintenance and reforestation components; review and coordinate tree related activities within the City of Mission Hills; prepare and administer professional services contracts for specialized forestry work and maintenance contracts for right-of-way (ROW) tree maintenance; educate and work with utility crews that may affect the City’s ROW trees; periodically reviews and recommends changes to the City’s tree ordinances; serves as staff support to the Park Board; administer Stormwater Environmental Grants Program; consult with residents on their private trees; represent the City at state and regional forestry meetings and interact technical personnel engaged in urban forest planning. This position reports to the City Administrator (Park Administrator).

Tasks

· Serve as a resource for residents and staff on all urban forestry matters.

· Provide professional management of the urban forest, monitor city development for compliance with policy and code requirements, ordinances and administrative directives pertaining to forest management and landscaping, track and project urban forestry expenditures.

· Collaborate with Mission Hills Park Board, Architectural Review Board, contractors and homeowners in the review of substantial construction, infrastructure, utility and landscaping projects to eliminate conflicts with existing and proposed trees and vegetation in the City ROW as well as on private property.

· Evaluate and monitor tree protection plans.

· Prepare meeting packets, serve as secretary, and maintain records of Park Board meetings; provide proper notice of meetings; track and support Park Board projects, including the annual bulb and flower displays.

· Review ROW permit applications for potential impact on ROW trees.

· Inspect, diagnose and initiate appropriate actions and reports for trees in City ROW, hazardous trees on private property and other public properties to ensure public safety.

· Administer the Stormwater Environmental Grants Program, in partnership with Johnson County. Educate residents on the program and review and monitor project applications and progress.

· Develop and administer a holistic, environmentally sensitive pest management program inclusive of effective monitoring, suppression and population management strategies. Provide technical information regarding pest management to homeowners regarding their private trees and plants.

· Review and approve Urban Forestry License applications and monitor tree work throughout the City to ensure compliance.

· Prepare various management reports, proposals, grant and award applications, budget documents and public relations materials.

· Respond to emergency situations such as tornados, microbursts, ice storms, floods and other major storm events; and supervise hired contractors.

· Establish and maintain a comprehensive inventory of street trees and trees in parks, islands, municipal properties and other improved City property through the use of software programs.

· Coordinate and complete City Tree USA activities and application. Organize Arbor Day celebration.

· Assist other City departments on matters pertaining to trees.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

· The specialized theories, principles, practices and techniques of arboriculture and urban forestry,

· Tree species and cultivars,

· City ordinances; and

· Landscape design and installation.

Skill in:

· Preparing detailed specifications for contractual services,

· Preparing meeting packets and minutes for the Park Board,

· Skill in use of computers, including current/industry standard office products, mapping, and urban forest inventory management software, and

· Diagnosing pathological problems in trees and preparation of appropriate control and corrective recommendations.

· Safely operating a chainsaw in limited/emergency situations, as needed.

Ability to:

· Establish and maintain effective working relationships with the Mayor and City Council, Park Board members, the homes associations, contractors, co-workers, peers, developers, civic organizations, and residents, and

· Communicate technical data effectively, both orally and in writing.

Qualifications

· Any combination of education (above the high school level) and/or experience equivalent to five (5) years in fields utilizing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the areas of forestry, urban forestry, arboriculture, horticulture or natural resource management and some supervisory experience. Preferred qualification is Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, or Park Administration or a closely related degree.

· International Society of Arboriculture designation as Certified Arborist required or must be able to achieve within one (1) year from date of employment.

· Must have, or obtain, a current and valid driver’s license.

Conditions

· This position requires light physical work including the ability to walk/climb over difficult terrain and work in confined spaces;

· Work outside in extreme weather conditions - may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to emergencies;

· Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds;

· Work safely in hazardous conditions; and

· Safely operate a car or light truck on public roads.

FULL DESCRIPTION: https://missionhillsks.gov/412/Arborist-and-Park-Coordinator

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,250.00 - $86,250.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Experience level:

• 5 years

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person