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Who We Are

Storm King Art Center is a 500-acre outdoor museum located in New York’s Hudson Valley, where visitors experience large-scale sculpture, site-specific commissions, and groundbreaking temporary exhibitions under open sky. Storm King’s unique landscape offers opportunities for the public to experience time outdoors and engage with art in an open and accessible environment, while artists create some of their most ambitious works in conversation with the natural world.

As a member of the Storm King team, you will be part of our mission to protect and celebrate both the creative and the natural world around us. Our team is committed to fostering a diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace, where every employee can thrive and grow.

Position Summary

Working under the general direction of the Director of Facilities & Conservation, the Arborist is primarily responsible for caring for all trees, plants, and native grasses across 500 acres of Storm King’s property. This role represents a unique opportunity for someone who has both the knowledge and experience to proactively plan a comprehensive tree care and plant health program as well as the physical desire and ability to execute the work.

The ideal candidate feels a sense of purpose in protecting 70 acres of native grasses from invasive species and is comfortable working at heights with a chainsaw or other tree care equipment at their side while maintaining a commitment to personal safety and the wellbeing of everyone on site, including visitors and other staff.

Why Join Us?

At Storm King, we believe in nurturing our people as much as we do our art and land. Here’s what you can expect:

• Collaborative and Inclusive Culture: Work in an environment that values each team member’s perspective and fosters a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration.
• Professional Growth: With a focus on innovation, we support your development through ongoing training, mentoring, and opportunities to enhance your skills.
• Flexibility and Balance: Enjoy a work environment that promotes work-life balance, with flexibility to meet both professional and personal needs.
• Comprehensive Benefits: We offer a generous benefits package that reflects our commitment to the well-being of our team.

Responsibilities

The Arborist responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

Tree Care, Plant Health & Native Grass Maintenance

• Execute full-scale plant health care program, including but not limited to:
  1. Pruning
  2. Planting
  3. Tree removal
  4. Invasive plant removal
  5. Stump removal
  6. Integrated pest management (IPM)
  7. Tree condition assessments
• Collaborate with Director on tree and plant selection, installation methods, and tree protection measures
• Regularly navigate site to inspect for potential tree hazards
• Emergency storm response 

Planning & Administration

• Solicit and obtain all necessary bids and quotations for pricing; provide supporting documentation and justify requests as necessary
• Support with managing all contracted services related to tree care, ensure contractor compliance, and maintain records for service provided.
• Stay current on safety rules, proper procedures, and professional standards for tree care & maintenance of plants and native grasses; assist in training other team members to maintain safety and high standards of care.
• Establish written work procedures and management plans, with a focus on the implementation and maintenance of trees, plants, & native grasses.
• Keep Director of Facilities & Conservation informed of all matters as they relate to risk management decisions, particularly regarding hazard tree evaluation and pest management. 

Facilities & Conservation Support

• Support with general maintenance of site, including occasionally assisting with repairs & installation of artwork.
• Occasionally direct work of other team members assisting with tree care and general plant health maintenance.
• Maintain proper care of all tools, equipment, and supplies.
• Support with ad-hoc requests to support Facilities & Conservation as necessary.

Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the planting, care, and maintenance of trees
• Experience operating heavy machinery, such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, tree chippers, all-terrain forklifts, etc.
• Valid NYS Drivers’ License required
• NYS Commercial Pesticide Applicators License Category 3A preferred
• Familiarity with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) A300 standards
• Past tree climbing and aerial lift operation are a plus, though direct climbing or lift use is not part of the day-to-day role
• Ability to provide both oral and written communication that is easily understood and direct in its content
• Ability to engage in critical thinking skills that allow for prioritizing issues, coordinating multiple projects and problem solving
• Strong working knowledge of common insects, pests, diseases and proper tools for treatment & mitigation

Working Environment

• Works primarily outdoors
• Ability to maneuver outdoors, in all weather conditions, on 500 acres of hills, grass, and gravel path ways
• Ability to safely climb and complete work from atop a ladder 
• Frequent lifting, stooping, or bending 
• Occasionally reads, writes and uses a computer keyboard 
• Basic knowledge and Microsoft Office applications and management systems
• Ability to work overtime, weekends and holidays as needed
• Ability to lift/move up to 90 lbs. and perform heavy physical labor on a daily basis in all weather conditions
• Boot allowance and uniform provided
• This role is represented by the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) Local 1000, AFSCME, AFL-CIO and is governed by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between Storm King and CSEA Local 720 (Unit A)

Hours/Schedules

This position is full-time, non-exempt.

Typical work hours are Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Schedules may vary based on seasonality and organizational needs.

Benefits and Salary

Storm King Art Center offers a collaborative and supportive environment where employees can thrive. Our benefits package reflects our commitment to work-life balance and includes comprehensive health benefits, retirement savings, and resources to support your well-being.

• Hourly Rate: $24.92 - $30.45 hourly
• Work Environment: Onsite

How to Apply

To be considered for this role, please submit your cover letter and resume. We’re excited to meet individuals who are passionate about creating a positive impact in the workplace and contributing to Storm King’s legacy of art and nature. Only those being considered will be contacted. No phone inquiries, please.

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position.  There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.

Storm King Art Center is dedicated to creating a workplace that reflects our values of accessibility, inclusion, and respect for all. We are an equal opportunity employer and make employment decisions based on merit, without regard to protected characteristics.

Storm King Art Center does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other related consideration.