boston planning & development agency

*BOSTON RESIDENCY IS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT*

TITLE: ARBORIST LEAD

STATUS: EXEMPT

DEPARTMENT/DIVISION: OWD - PowerCorpBOS

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW:

The Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development (OWD) is an innovative public agency that seeks to promote economic self-sufficiency to ensure the full participation of all Boston residents in the city’s economic vitality and future, seeking to connect residents with job training and employment opportunities and to promote lifelong literacy and educational pathways.

OWD is part of the Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (EDIC), which falls under the combined operating entity of the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA).

About the Green Jobs Youth Corps Program

The Office of Workforce Development (OWD) and the Environment, Energy & Open Space Cabinet (EEOS) launched a new green jobs training program centered on opportunities for youth, disconnected young people, and returning citizens.

Based on the PowerCorpsPHL program launched by the City of Philadelphia in 2013, this learn-and-earn program will engage young adults in transforming their lives through public service and workforce training in green jobs. Through knowledge, industry training, and community service, participants will gain 21st-century workforce skills, including teamwork, leadership, conflict resolution, time management, and network building. Program participants and alumni will receive customized support from the program as they pursue their education and career goals.

Job Overview: The Arborist Lead role at PowerCorps will play a crucial role in the build-out of the newly designed Urban Forestry Industry Academy. You would be charged with building out the program from the existing structure, building relationships, and implementing the work schedule, particularly focusing on urban forestry and conservation activities while managing the crew. The selected candidate will serve as a mentor during the foundation phase, guiding crew members in acquiring essential skills and techniques related to tree care, forestry, landscaping, and land stewardship. Working closely with crew leaders and under the direction of the Program Manager and the Program Director, the Arborist Supervisor will lead the crew in executing assignments aligned with the Urban Forestry Curriculum.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide hands-on training in various areas, including chainsaw and woodchipper operation, pruning techniques, and power-tool maintenance.

• Gives guidance on conservation efforts around invasive tree removal and reforestation efforts.

• Works on a multidisciplinary team to mentor and help corps members from varying cultural backgrounds overcome life issues and get into a livable wage career after the program.

• Enforce and adhere to all safety standards, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols and hand tool safety.

• Oversee vehicle safety procedures, tree assessments, and hazard awareness, ensuring a safe work environment for the crew.

• Provide training on chainsaw anatomy, maintenance, and safe operation.

• Instruct crew members in chipper startup and shutdown protocols, safe use practices, and daily maintenance.

• Facilitate learning sessions on plant anatomy, soil health, and functioning.

• Provide training in safe carpentry operation standards, tools, and construction techniques.

• Oversee tree assessments and guide crew members in safe tree removal techniques.

• Instruct crew members in climbing, rope handling, knot tying, and safe maneuvering within the tree canopy.

• Monitors activities related to planting, watering, pruning, pest control, removals, and storm response

• Utilizes a work order management system related to arboriculture operations to ensure efficient use of labor, materials, and equipment

• Educate other staff through presentations on-site and in office settings.

• Performs related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Three to Five (3-5) years of progressively responsible experience in arboriculture, either at the municipal or commercial level

• Massachusetts Driver’s License Required

• Proficiency and knowledge of tree planting including stock selection, site preparation, tree installation, and required aftercare

• Working knowledge of practices and equipment associated with the maintenance and care of trees and shrubs, particularly those common in the Northeastern United States

• Knowledge of ANSI A-300, Z-133 and Z60.1 standards of practice & operation

• Proficiency in written and verbal communication

• Ability to work independently on routine tasks and manage recurring project cycles

• Ability to communicate and work effectively with a diverse group of coworkers and members of the community

• Ability to exercise sound and professional judgment

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions typical to the region, including heat, cold, rain, and snow

• Ability to work indoors in an office environment

• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as an Arborist by either the Massachusetts Arborist Association or the International Society of Arboriculture

• Commercial Applicator License (core)

• Commercial Driver’s License

*BOSTON RESIDENCY IS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT*