Job Description

Climbing Arborist

Location: San Diego, CA
Salary: $29.73 per hour

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The arborist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature and leading the fight against extinction. The Arborist under general supervision performs a variety of skilled work, maintenance and removal of the organization's owned trees and including but not limited to other duties as directed. This position reports to the Lead Arborist/Supervisor/Manager

This is a skilled position and performs tasks of moderate difficulty in tree trimming by working from elevated positions.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Pruning and Trimming:
  ◦ Performing pruning and trimming operations to remove dead, diseased, or hazardous branches, as well as shaping the tree to promote healthy growth and maintain its appearance.

• Tree Removal:
  ◦ Safely removing trees that are dead, dying, hazardous, or interfering with infrastructure or other trees in the vicinity. This process requires the use of ropes, specialized rigging, chainsaws, and other equipment to ensure safety and prevent property damage.

• Tree Inspection and Risk Assessment:
  ◦ Conducting thorough assessments of trees to identify biotic and abiotic issues along with potential hazards.
  ◦ Evaluating potential hazards posed by trees near buildings, walkways, roads, power lines, and other infrastructure, and recommending measures to mitigate risks.
  ◦ Evaluation work involves climbing trees and using specialized equipment like binoculars, air spade and boom truck to examine trees from different angles.

• Safety Compliance:
  ◦ Adhering to safety standards and protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe work practices while operating at heights or using dangerous equipment.
  ◦ Safely use climbing systems in accordance with ANSI standards.

• Equipment Operation and Maintenance:
  ◦ Boom truck and chipper operation
  ◦ Operates cutting tools and other small engine equipment.
  ◦ Ensuring all tools and equipment used in tree care are properly maintained and in good working condition to ensure safety and efficiency.

• Pest and Disease Control:
  ◦ Implements treatment plans for trees affected by pests or diseases, including the application of appropriate pesticides or other remedies.

• Tree Material Salvage and Reuse:
  ◦ Salvages, shapes and installs enrichment, perching, and habitat furniture items.

• Tree Conservation and Preservation:
  ◦ Advocating for the protection and preservation of trees, in environments where construction and development can threaten their existence.
  ◦ Administers trainings such as tree preservation and chainsaw safety trainings.

• Record Keeping and Documentation:
  ◦ Maintain detailed records of tree maintenance activities, and tree health assessments.
  ◦ Create reports for management or clients on garden status, performance, and recommended improvements.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Some experience with pruning, shaping, rigging, take downs and removals with heavy equipment, ie: cranes, loaders, etc. preferred. Selected candidates must be able to move moderate to heavy objects, work from elevated positions, and operate assigned tools and equipment.

A valid driver license in good standing is required. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.  This position requires successful completion of physical ability test.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• Tree climbing and pruning experience that are set forth in the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards and/or an ISA certification is preferred
• At least two years climbing and trimming experience is preferred
  

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• College Level Coursework required
• California drivers license Upon Hire required
  

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge of:

• Tree biology and identification 
• Basic methods, tools, equipment of tree care 
• Tree and stump removal methods and practices 
• Rigging methods for tree trimming and removal 
• Safety practices for tree work 
  

Ability to:

• Communicate and work effectively with others 
• Perform digital data management 
• Operate motorized equipment and vehicles 
• Competently perform the essential functions outlined above 

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union 
• Hourly Rate: $29.73 

Job Tags

Hourly pay, Full time, Local area, Worldwide,

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