Forestry Management Assistant

Are you passionate about trees, forests, and making a lasting impact in your community?

As a member of our Forestry team you'll play a key role in protecting and enhancing the urban forest. In this dynamic position, you’ll support the planning and delivery of Forestry services across the city-both in the field and in the office. Your work will focus on tree protection and permitting processes, as well as coordinating tree planting initiatives in public spaces. From reviewing permits to helping green our urban landscape, you’ll contribute directly to a healthier, more sustainable community.

• Provide recommendations for tree planting locations and species within public road allowances and City parks;
• Respond and address resident tree planting service requests;
• Perform field audits to validate work orders assigned to contractors and ensure they are completed in accordance with the contracts;
• Assists in monitoring and assessing the health and condition of existing and newly planted trees, vegetation, and other forestry assets on streets and parks and identifying and reporting on any deficiencies or work required;
• Review Tree Removal Permit Applications and complete inspections for verification
• Complete inspections and memorandums for the release of Tree Replacement and Tree Protection Securities;
• Review drawings related to capital works projects, utilities applications and pool permits to identify potential impacts on trees or natural heritage features and make tree preservation recommendations;
• Conduct tree protection hoarding inspections
• Support Forestry events by providing instruction or information on the Forestry Section to the public, ensuring event documentation is collected and maintained (waivers, contact lists, etc.);
• Collects data and completes research for Forestry projects as directed by Supervisor or delegate;
• Maintains accurate record keeping of Forestry records including updating GIS maps, spreadsheets and data;
• Accurately operate and maintain specialized scientific data collection, diagnostic or geospatial equipment (i.e. GPS, GIS, RTK);
• Assist with ground based assistance with arboricultural tasks such as, tree pruning, removals, stumping, etc.;
• Safely operate and maintain common forestry vehicles, tools, and equipment;
• Provide status updates on resident inquiries via email and phone;
• Provide administrative support including: photocopying, scanning, filing;
• Process permit applications, event registrations, fee payments, or invoices

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in forestry, arboriculture, urban forestry, ecology, environmental science or a related field;
• Minimum one (1) to two (2) years of related work experience or an approved equivalent combination of education, training, and experience;
• Knowledge of urban forestry, arboriculture, and/or ecological principles and practices;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, GIS, computers, mobile devices;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently and as a team member;
• Ability to plan, organize and complete assigned duties effectively and efficiently within assigned timelines;
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing;
• Familiarity with common forestry equipment, vehicles, and tools;
• Valid Ontario Class G2 Driver’s License or higher with an acceptable driving record;
• Must be willing to obtain a recent driver's abstract to your own expense
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain, and perform heavy lifting (50lbs), shoveling, bending and kneeling for extended periods of time;
• Must be flexible and able to work overtime, weekends, attend evening meetings, and special events.