The City of Bend, Community and Economic Development Department has an exciting opportunity for one (1) full-time, regular Urban Forester. This position is FLSA exempt (not overtime eligible) and non-represented. The Urban Forester resides in the Community and Economic Development Department and reports to the Director of the Community and Economic Development Department. This position provides strategic cross-departmental support to other City Departments, including Transportation & Mobility, Water Services, Engineering and Risk & Emergency Management. This position involves developing and implementing urban forestry policies; updating and interpreting tree-related standards, codes, and ordinances; providing consultation related to trees and landscaping for various City departments and private development and public infrastructure projects; and managing the City’s participation/membership in various arborist and forestry programs including the City’s Tree City USA designation, among other related responsibilities. To be considered for this position, applicants must have a complete application that includes : The online application via NeoGov (access also available on City of Bend website under Human Resources/Job Openings) Attached formal Cover Letter (required) Attached formal Resume (required) Attached valid Credentials, Certifications and Licensing (if applicable) Applicants must provide certification that they are a veteran or disabled veteran to receive veteran's preference. Applications received by Monday, November 18, 2024 (11/18/2024), 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time will receive preference for initial review, but the position will remain open until filled. Essential Functions Include: The information provided below encompasses the essential functions and capabilities linked with this Classification. Duties and Responsibilities Lead the creation of an urban forest management program. Provide input and subject matter expertise on the development of and updates to City ordinances, design standards, program policies, long-range goals, and departmental work procedures pertaining to the program. Lead the creation of a city-wide program with objective criteria on the deployment of resources for purchasing, planting, and maintaining trees from tree fee-in-lieu payments from development. Oversee standards for tree preservation measures and coordinate plan review regarding urban forestry issues for private development applications and public improvement contracts with other divisions, departments, agencies, and public utilities. Provide supervision over staff on a continual and project basis. Offer urban design, landscape, and tree input for street cross-sections, special area plans, and other master plan development projects. Prepare and maintain the City tree inventory and canopy coverage database/mapping. Monitor and evaluate the health and condition of trees, respond to emergency situations involving fallen or damaged trees, and coordinate necessary actions for their preservation or removal. Identify and oversee grant opportunities to support an urban forestry program consistent with City grant and procurement policies. Instruct City employees in implementing actions aligned with an urban forestry program, including tree planting and maintenance activities. Respond to requests for information generated by the public, deliver presentations on the City’s urban forestry program, and engage with the community. Manage and maintain the City of Bend’s status with Tree City USA and other arborist programs. Work with Bend Beautification Volunteer Program to promote and enhance pollinator and other environmental projects. Serve as the central coordinator for urban forestry initiatives. In an emergency event or an officially declared State of Emergency, responds as directed. Performs related duties as necessary to achieve the objectives of the position. Supervisory Responsibility Directly or indirectly supervise all team members, including training, assigning, and directing work, evaluating performance, disciplining as necessary, and addressing employee concerns and grievances. Provide team members with regular feedback on performance. Participate in the recruitment of new employees. Disseminate, implement, and enforce organization and team standards, policies, and procedures. Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities Possess a deep understanding of municipal tree regulations. Knowledge of principles and practices of urban forestry, arboriculture, tree risk assessment, horticulture, general landscape architecture, plant taxonomy, ecology, integrated pest management (IPM), urban planning, and engineering design and construction principles. Ability to work independently with minimum direction while also working as part of a team. Experience with assessing the impact of construction activities and urbanization on individual trees and forest communities. Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans. Experience briefing and making recommendations to senior management and representatives of other agencies. Good judgment and demonstrated ability to handle sensitive issues with diplomacy and poise. Experience providing scientific and technical advice and assistance on problems relating to the urban forest. Proficiency with GIS software and the ability to generate maps, charts, and associated reports. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to supervise a multicultural workforce and promote an equitable workplace environment. Ability to make decisions within established policies and procedures. Education, Experience, Certifications and/or Licenses Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 2 to 3 years’ experience in urban forestry. 1 year of supervisory experience. Specific Requirements and/or Qualifications Certification as a Certified Arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture. International Society of Arboriculture Tree Risk Assessment Qualification or ability to obtain within 6 months. Current and valid Driver’s license per City policies. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated career progression with increasing levels of responsibility. Classification Framework: Urban Forester To view the full Classification framework, click here J-18808-Ljbffr
