Urban Forester (Urban Forestry)

The position is in the Department of Codes and Building Safety, and develops, administers, and monitors related programs and policies to ensure industry compliance and to manage tree planting, planning, protection, and maintenance within Davidson County on public lands and right-of-ways.
 
The Metro Department of Codes and Building Safety, during the fiscal year 2015-2016 issued and tracked $3.7 billion in building permits, 50 percent more than the previous year.  The department concerns itself with the safety of the public as occupants in homes and buildings throughout the county, and also promotes beautiful neighborhoods through the enforcement of local codes and zoning regulations.  Codes is an exciting place to work during this period of growth and construction.  

• Administers the Metropolitan Tree Ordinances, and establishes and administers programs for licensing arborists
• Provides information and expertise to contractors, architects, and the public for plans and projects regarding compliance guidelines and standards
• Monitors a tree planning program to ensure proper planning procedure for such factors as drainage, surface space for roots, etc. on right-of-way and public grounds
• Enforces ordinance and industry regulations concerning tree maintenance, including issuing tree removal permits and citations and stop- work orders on projects
• Reviews contractor blueprints and plans for tree density and related factors and approves project continuance
• Educates contractors and related personnel of industry and local ordinance standards
• May participate in related public relations activities
• May advise other Metro departments and public utility companies on tree trimming, removal and replacement procedures
• Communicates with the staff, the public, and officials on the Metro Tree Ordinance and related issues
• Assists the Tree Advisory Committee to the Metropolitan Beautification and Environment Commission

Bachelor's Degree in Forestry, Plant and Soil Science, or Ornamental Horticulture, or related degree and 5 years experience in a related field. Valid driver license may be required for some positions within this classification. Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.

An employee in this classification shall obtain the following certifications within 2 years from the effective date of his/her appointment to said classification.

• Certified Arborist (ISA)
• Certified in Legal Aspects of Code Enforcement  (SBCCI)
• Certified in Zoning and Property Standards (SBCCI)

Failure to meet the certification requirements within the 2 years period shall result in disciplinary action.

Note: Per Metro Ordinance No. SO94-1078. All employees of the Metropolitan Government shall be residents of the State of Tennessee or become residents of the state within six (6) months of employment as a prerequisite to employment with the Metropolitan Government. 

• Knowledge of arboricultural, life science, ecology and forest management
• Knowledge of tree maintenance requirements
• Knowledge of landscape architecture, construction, surveying, and drafting techniques
• Ability to explain, interpret, and enforce codes, ordinance, and related laws