Arborist/horticulturist

Employment Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Experience

Required: 3 or more years of experience in horticulture, forestry, or related work, preferable within state and/local government. A comparable amount of education, training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. NIMS (National Incident Management System) ICS-100, ICS-200 training; FEMA IS-700 training. Possession and retention of a valid Delaware motor vehicle operator’s license. Must pass testing for substance abuse and criminal background investigation. Subject to random drug testing in accordance with City policy. Possession American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) Certification or the ability to be certified within one year of hire.

Minimum Education Requirements: Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in forestry, environmental science, horticulture, or related field.

Direct Supervisor: Parks Superintendent

Supervisory Responsibility: Seasonal/temporary personnel

Primary Work Location: In/around the city, with reporting, office duties and meetings at Parks and Recreation and Public Works.

Essential Job Functions: An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential duties:
A. Assists with landscape maintenance, restoration, beautification, and design efforts.

C. Selects suitable plants and flowers, arranges them in aesthetically pleasing patterns, and considers factors like color, texture, and seasonal interest.

D. Installs and cultivates functional and ornamental plants.

E. Transplants and prune shrubs and small trees.

F. Monitors plant health and growth, identify issues, and implements appropriate solutions to ensure optimal plant development.

G. Maintains an accurate tree inventory database, provides accurate data to committees, commissions, and management. Monitor and assess tree inventory for trees that are at risk.

H. Assists the Parks and Recreation Director and Tree Advisory Commission in developing a comprehensive city-wide approved tree planting program.

I. Attend quarterly Tree Advisory Commission meetings as required by the Parks and Recreation Director.

J. Oversee tree-related sidewalk repairs, including correspondence with property owners, tree root shaving or sidewalk re-alignments as necessary, and coordination with other staff.

K. Engages with homeowners, businesses, or government entities, to provide expert advice on plant selection, landscaping, and maintenance.

L. Provide support to the Electric Department through the following:

- Identifying trees and limbs encroaching electric lines
- Escorting / Auditing Vegetation Management contractors performing work on City Facilities
- Clearance of vines and vegetation at ground level and/or on secondary poles
- Application of Herbicidal Treatments
- Replacement of trees along right of way and easements with low growing varieties
- Assist in clearing brush, chipping material, and sectioning trunks.

M. Performs related work as required by the Parks Superintendent.

Pay: $56,123.93 per year

**Benefits**:

- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- On call

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person