Date of Posting: Monday, March 18, 2024
Department: Planning
Job Title: Urban Forestry Fellow
Work hours: City Hall Hours; flexibility to respond to tree-related emergencies.
Salary/Hourly
$90,000 plus benefits.
Overview
The City of Lynn seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic tree professional to serve as the City’s first Urban Forestry Fellow. This is a fantastic opportunity, made possible through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to develop new urban forestry capacity in a vibrant Gateway City.
The Fellow will be responsible for overseeing the management, care, and preservation of trees within the City, with a focus on Lynn’s environmental justice communities. Primary duties will include assessing tree health, coordinating tree maintenance and planting programs, enforcing tree related regulations, and promoting community engagement in urban forestry initiatives.
The Urban Forestry Fellow will work closely with the Planning Department, Department of Public Works, Tree Warden, Community Development, Mayor’s Office, Elected Officials, and community members. This is a grant-funded position funded for three years from start date, and the grant must be completed no later than September 30, 2028.
Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
● Oversee assessment of the health, stability, and condition of trees within the City, identifying potential risks and hazards, in conjunction with the city’s Tree Warden and Department of Public Works.
● Liaise with Department of Public Works management on the planting and maintaining of Lynn’s trees.
● Enforce tree-related regulations, permits, and ordinances, ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
● Support communications and community engagement efforts related to enhancing Lynn’s public spaces.
● Provide guidance and support to residents, businesses, and organizations regarding tree-related inquiries, concerns, and requests.
● Update City websites and collaborate with Mayor’s Communications Coordinator to help spread information about ongoing tree programs.
● Find opportunities to work with individual residents or a Tree Commission to involve enthusiastic members of the community.
● Support urban forestry workforce development programs for Lynn youth.
● Build long-term capacity for urban forestry in Lynn.
● Otherwise support Lynn’s urban forest and green infrastructure.
Qualifications
● Arborist Certification from a recognized organization such as The International Society of Arboriculture and Massachusetts Arborist Association Certified Arborist. A degree in Urban Forestry, Arboriculture, Horticulture, or a related field or significant progress toward such certification.
● A bachelor’s degree in urban forestry, arboriculture, or a related field OR a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in the field.
● Extensive knowledge of tree species, diseases, pests, and treatment methods relevant to Massachusetts.
● Familiarity with local, state, and federal tree-related laws, regulations and permits.
● Strong understanding of tree care practices, pruning including ANSI A300 standards, planting, and maintenance techniques.
● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders.
● Ability to coordinate and manage tree care operations, including contractors and volunteers.
● Proficiency in using computer software and other cloud-based platforms that include tools for record-keeping and data analysis.
● Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and be able to lift 100 lbs.
● Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
● When applicants are substantially similar in terms of qualifications, preference will be given to candidates who have resided in the City of Lynn for a continuous twelve-month period prior to the date of posting.
Preferred Qualifications:
● Bilingual or bilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply
How To Apply
A completed application, including cover lettercan be submitted via:
- Email ([email protected])
- Regular Post
- In-Person at the Personnel Department, Room 307 in Lynn City Hall
If submitting via e-mail, please include the “JOB TITLE” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with priority consideration extended to candidates who apply on or before the deadline.
Job Title: "Urban Forestry Fellow"
CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED (PRIORITY DEADLINE: THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2024)
All applicants shall receive equal consideration and treatment in employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, familial status, genetic information, or any other status prohibited by law.
The City of Lynn is an Equal Opportunity Employer!
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If you have any questions about the application process or need assistance, please call (781) 586-4000 or email us at [email protected].