Under general supervision, the Forestry Technician 1 performs technical work involving a variety of field and office projects including: evaluation, assessment and judgmental decisions regarding all species of trees, their maintenance and requirements. This position assists in the delivery of assigned Urban Forestry/DED programs and/or services, including the supervision of junior staff, coordination and inspection of contract work, and the preparation of reports.

As the Forestry Technician 1 you will:

• Inspect construction sites and/or plans, private sewer blockage claims, damage claims, tree related problems, utility clearances, and development agreements, and, if necessary, recommend remedial procedures.
• Determine legal ownership of private or public property; includes the review of legal descriptions, use of simple survey techniques to determine actual boundaries, and/or arranging for surveys.
• Assess and evaluate planting, maintenance and/or condition of trees both public and private and, if necessary, recommend remedial procedures in cases of tree diseases, pests or other problems.
• Inspect contract work.
• Provide information to the general public, consultants, contractors, and other civic employees on urban forestry related matters; including dealing with customer complaints.
• Assist in the selection, supervision, and evaluation of junior staff and direct field activities.
• Maintain a current inventory of boulevard/public trees.
• Prepare written reports and calculate costs on various aspects of urban forestry requiring detailed assessment, and employing simple drafting techniques when necessary.
• Perform statistical work and maintain records.
• Perform other duties consistent with the classification as required.

Your education and qualifications include:

• Diploma in Forestry or a related field from a recognized university or technical college, plus a minimum of two (2) years of related work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Ability to understand and execute verbal and written instructions.

• Ability using hand and power tools, equipment and technical instruments, commonly used in urban forestry task work.

• Ability in the use of a personal computer with knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with the public, contractors, other technical/professional people.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Knowledge of tree diseases, pests and their treatment.

• Knowledge of City of Winnipeg by-laws and other regulations pertaining to trees.

• Ability to accurately analyze laboratory results to determine the presence of insect and disease pests and other environmental stress factors.

• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions and regulations applicable to the work.

• IMPORTANT: Applicants who have been educated outside of Canada must have education which is comparable to the minimum qualification in Canada. Applicants submitting foreign credentials require an official academic assessment report issued by a recognized Canadian assessment service https://www.canalliance.org/en/ at application.

Conditions of employment:

• The successful applicant must maintain legal eligibility to work in Canada. If the successful applicant possesses a work permit, it is their responsibility to ensure the permit remains valid.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License. Successful candidates will be required to provide a valid Driver’s Notice in Force document.
• In accordance with Legislative and the Department’s requirements, this position requires completion of courses and possession of the license or valid and current certification before appointment as described below:
  • A previously issued Manitoba Arborist License valid after October 1, 2017 and/or
  • Proof of successful completion of the Manitoba Arboriculture Course before July 1, 2019 and/or
  • Current and in good standing an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Arborist Certification.
• Must be physically able to perform the duties of the job, which may include, but are not limited to: working at various heights, working outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions; ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods and over uneven terrain, including: snow, ice and riverbanks; the ability to work overhead and at heights for extended periods, and ability to lift and move objects up to 50 lbs.