This position manages and performs identification, inspection and evaluation of trees, brush, shrubs, and other vegetation along electric utility lines. The incumbent oversees and coordinates the activities of assigned tree trimming and vegetation management crews. Coordinates and negotiates access issues and serves as a liaison between crews, property owners, and the City. Works under the general direction of an assigned Electric Department Supervisor. This is a safety-sensitive position and requires periodic random and unannounced drug testing.

• Inspects distribution and/or transmission circuits and prescribes work to be performed by tree trimming and vegetation management contractor(s) and crew(s), determines frequency at which trimming is required, notifies property owners of vegetation management work to be performed, manages the issuance of work and tracks work progress, performs outage investigations and, when necessary, obtains permits from public agencies and documents work;
• Maintains and/or oversees the maintenance of management system that tracks the work and projects the need of system-wide vegetation management;
• Audits tree trimming, tree removal, and other vegetation management work completed by contractor(s) and crew(s) in the field to ensure compliance with approved tree trimming standards; schedules and conducts period performance-review meetings with contractors and crews;
• Maintains positive working relationships with property owners as well as all relevant federal, state and local governmental agencies with which it may become necessary to interact with during the course of performing duties.
• Manages and assists the Supervisor in preparation of the Electric Department’s vegetation management budget;
• Complies with all regulatory requirements and standards;
• May be required to participate in public presentations and meetings.
• As requested by the Electric Supervisor or Department Director, performs all necessary duties for emergency response in accordance with all safety requirements, laws and regulations, and applicable labor standards;
• Conducts work in a safety-conscious manner as not to endanger themselves or others.
• Keeps the work area (office and/or company vehicle) neat, orderly and professional in appearance;
• Maintains daily time sheets and materials records;
• Trains contractors in proper work and safety procedures;
• Ensures applicable safety standards and rules are enforced and proper PPE are used;
• Subject to call-in during outages and emergencies;
• Demonstrates reliable attendance - must report to work as scheduled and on time.

OTHER DUTIES PERFORMED

• Performs other tasks as required and assigned;
• Assists other City departments with forestry, arboriculture recommendations;
• May oversee the work of subordinate employees;
• Serves as a member of various employee teams.

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Post-secondary education in forestry, arboriculture, or related field is preferred.
• Certification as an Arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture is preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of Utility vegetation management experience.

• Comprehensive knowledge of the occupational hazards connected with the work and the safety precautions to be taken including, but not limited to, high voltage & energized electric lines, confined space, work zone traffic, above ground fall protection conditions and safety requirements, etc.;
• Thorough knowledge of tree trimming practices near overhead electric lines;
• Thorough knowledge of tree physiology, biology, and species identification;
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret written communications;
• Ability to understand and carry out complex oral and written instructions;
• Ability to respond to verbal inquiries from management, staff, and customers;
• Ability to effectively present information verbally and/or in writing;
• General aptitude in mathematics;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and subordinates;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and/or similar software suite;
• Knowledge of the use and care of tools, equipment, vehicles, line and bucket trucks, and other equipment associated with utility vegetation management;
• Thorough knowledge of and ability to enforce applicable OSHA standards;
• Considerable knowledge and skill in the use of basic hand and power tools;
• Ability to read, interpret and work from engineering drawings, schematic drawings, rough sketches and drawings;
• Ability to keep accurate records and reports;
• Ability to perform skilled, semi-skilled, and hard manual work in adverse weather conditions for extended periods of time;
• Ability to work days, evening, nights, and/or weekends as needed;
• Ability to plan, layout, and supervise work safely and efficiently;
• Ability to assign and critique the work of contractor personnel;
• Knowledge of principles of electricity.