Field Arborist bei City of Atlanta

Posting Expires: Until Filled. 

Salary Range: $51,035.56- $68,132.47

General Description and Classification Standards

The Arborist I (Field Arborist) position in the Department of City Planning enforces the City's Tree Protection Ordinance and assists residents and professionals with tree-related issues. Responsibilities include evaluating tree health, issuing removal permits, inspecting construction sites for compliance with approved plans, issuing fines and fees for code violations, entering data into the City’s tracking systems, and representing the Arborist Division at Tree Conservation Commission hearings. The Arborist I ensures high-quality customer service and supports the City’s mission and core values.

Supervision Received:

Works under general supervision and reports to the Lead Field Arborist. May work independently or as part of a team with responsibility for completing assigned tasks

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

Administrative:

• Issue permits and inspection reports; respond to customer inquiries by phone, email, or letter.
• Maintain detailed inspection logs and database records.
• Accurately assess and calculate fines and fees when applicable.
• Represent the Arborist Division in appeal hearings and municipal court proceedings.
• Communication & Public Engagement:
• Collaborate with developers, architects, engineers, contractors, and homeowners to ensure compliance.
• Educate the public and community groups on tree protection regulations and best practices.

• Exhibit professionalism and effective interpersonal skills in customer interactions.

   

Field Work:

• Evaluate trees for health, risk, and code compliance.
• Issue permits for removal of trees that are dead, dying, or hazardous.
• Post public notices regarding potential tree impacts on construction sites.
• Inspect active sites for tree protection compliance; perform final inspections for CO issuance.
• Issue citations for violations of the Tree Protection Ordinance.

• May perform other duties as assigned.

   

Decision Making:

Follows established procedures, ordinances, and protocols. Exercises sound judgment when determining compliance, issuing citations, or escalating complex issues to senior staff.

Leadership Provided:

Provides guidance and training to interns, temporary employees, or junior team members. May serve in a lead role in the absence of a supervisor.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

Knowledge of:

• City permitting processes and Tree Protection Ordinance.

• Arboricultural practices, hazard tree identification, and root zone impact assessment.

• Customer service principles and procedures.

Skills in:

• Performing detailed inspections with accuracy and minimal supervision.

• Issuing permits, calculating fines, and writing concise reports.

• Conducting tree risk assessments and reading site plans.

Ability to:

• Interpret and enforce municipal codes and regulations.

• Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

• Work independently in the field and collaborate across departments.

• Analyze site conditions and provide practical, code-compliant solutions.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience – 

Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, Forestry, Horticulture, or a related field, and one (1) year of experience as an Arborist; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties.

Licensures and Certifications – 

Required:

• Valid Georgia Driver’s License

• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification

Preferred:

• Experience interpreting site plans and technical drawings

• Certification or experience in hazard tree evaluation

• Background in public service or community engagement

Work Environment:

Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments. Field duties may include exposure to various weather conditions, terrain, and construction activity.