Alachua County Board of County Commissioners
Gainesville, FL
Minimum Qualifications This Senior Environmental Specialist position in the Land Conservation and Management program will plan, supervise, coordinate, and implement habitat restoration and manage staff and activities on the Alachua County nature preserves. Critical activities include prescribed burning, invasive plant treatments, forest resource management, preserve infrastructure improvements, natural areas site evaluations, and drafting and implementing management plans. Bachelor's degree with major course work in environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, forestry, wildlife ecology, land/recreation management, natural science, or a related field, and three years of professional level environmental related experience; or any equivalent combination of related training and experience. Applicants within six months of meeting the education/experience requirement may be considered for trainee status. A Valid Florida Driver License is required and a Motor Vehicle Record that meets the requirements of Alachua County policy #6-7; Motor Vehicle Records will be reviewed prior to employment. If, in the past 24-month period, the applicants Motor Vehicle Record has more than three (3) moving traffic infractions or three (3) or more at fault motor vehicle accidents (or combination of both and /or a conviction/pending charge for driving under the influence) or is in violation of any standard mandated by Federal or State Law or Regulation, the minimum qualifications are not met for the position. Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen & physical examination and successful completion of all applicable background checks pre-hire and ongoing are required. Post-hire requirements for this classification include:•Must successfully complete the Annual Fireline Refresher training (RT-130) within the first 6 months of hire in this classification, and annually prior to February 1st each calendar year. •Must obtain and maintain CPR certification and First Aid and Safety certification within one year of employment in this classification. •Must complete National Wildlife Coordinating Group (NWCG) Moderate (or Arduous) Work Capacity Test within one year of hire in this classification and annually prior to February 1st each calendar year. •Must obtain and maintain a Certified Pesticide Applicator License (Public Applicator) with Natural Areas Weed Management Category within one year of hire in this classification. •Must successfully complete National Wildlife Coordinating Group (NWCG) S-130/S-190 within eighteen months of hire in this classification. Position Summary This is a professional role supervising and coordinating work in the protection, evaluation, acquisition, stewardship, and/or management of conservation lands for Alachua County. The employee assigned to this classification is responsible for various land conservation management activities such as prescribed burn operations, invasive plant treatments, protection of imperiled species, evaluating new acquisition sites, developing and implementing land management plans, drafting scopes of services, and overseeing contractors, and public outreach. Work is performed under the direction of a higher-level professional supervisor and is reviewed through conferences, reports, and observation of results obtained. Examples of Duties This is an emergency essential classification. Upon declaration of a disaster and/or emergency, all employees in this classification are required to work. Exudes a positive customer service focus. Advocates building organizational culture through aligning decisions with the County's core values. Supervises and coordinates the activities of subordinate employees including determining work procedures and schedules; issuing instructions and assigning duties; reviewing work; recommending personnel actions; conducting performance reviews; and conducting departmental training and orientation. Plans, supervises, and implements land stewardship activities on Alachua County natural areas including invasive plant control, prescribed burning, forestry, data collection, public access site development, monitoring, and maintenance and security. Develops and implements projects, scopes of work, and contracts; coordinates and oversees staff and contractors performing land stewardship activities such as invasive plant and animal control, site preparation, planting, imperiled species protection, timber inventorying and harvesting, site maintenance, public access site development, natural and cultural resource monitoring, natural areas restoration, field inspections, environmental monitoring, land management plan development, and prescribed burning. Actively participates in all aspects of prescribed fire operations including fire line prep, burn unit scouting, prescription writing, day of burns operations, and extended mop up in roles such as burn boss, crew boss, or burn crew member on prescribed burns, as appropriate. Plans and implements maintenance and creation of firebreaks and preparation of areas for burning. Coordinates with the Florida Forest Service, contractors, and other agencies on prescribed burning and other stewardship activities. Performs environmental assessments of properties nominated for acquisition through the Alachua County Forever Program to identify natural resources, physiographic and ecological characteristics, hydrological resources, manageability, management costs, and public accessibility. Plans, coordinates, and oversees volunteer group work projects. Performs conservation easement compliance inspections; documents site evaluations in reports; and completes activity logs. Develops and participates in public outreach activities. Plans, coordinates and manages all aspects of opening new sites for public access and maintaining existing public access infrastructure. Purchases operating supplies and manages inventory of tools, equipment, materials, and public facilities. Designs and establishes environmental monitoring programs as needed. Conducts and oversees field collection of samples, data, and observations for environmental analysis; evaluates findings and prepares reports, summaries, and recommendations. Develop tables, charts, spreadsheets, maps, and databases to track environmental data. Coordinates with regulatory agencies and assists the supervisor with operating reports, budget input, and presentations to various Boards, including presenting evaluation reports and findings to the Land Conservation Board. Operates, as required, motor vehicles (including but not limited to departmental motor vehicles and four-wheel drive vehicles, ATVs, UTVs, wildland fire engines, skid steers, and tractors), as well as small equipment and machinery, to conduct job duties that include field tests, inspections, evaluations, prescribed burns, debris clean up, restoration projects, invasive species control, on-site evaluations, plant and animal surveys, and other ecological monitoring as appropriate. Operates small equipment such as power tools, chainsaws, pole saws, backpack sprayers and pumps and assists with basic equipment maintenance. Performs the duties listed, as well as those assigned, with professionalism and a sense of urgency. NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various kinds of work performed in positions allocated to this class. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Thorough knowledge of the technical methods and procedures involved in the administration of environmental regulations, programs and policies. This includes technical methods and procedures involved in land management and acquisition; theories and practices of ecology and land management, including restoration, weed science and prescribed burning; knowledge of the flora, fauna, and ecology of North Central Florida; natural and historic resource protection, land acquisition and land stewardship. Considerable knowledge of environmental sampling procedures and equipment. Knowledge of environmental protection and land conservation. Knowledge of local, state, and federal rules, regulations, and ordinances related to environmental protection. Knowledge of word processing, data management programs, and Geographic Information Systems software. Knowledge of effective supervisory techniques and modern principles and practices of supervision. Considerable skill in the identification of local natural communities and native and invasive flora and fauna as it relates to the Land Conservation Program within the Environmental Protection Department. Skill in the safe operation of motor vehicles, trailers, tractors, skid steers, and small equipment such as power tools, chainsaws, pole saws, backpack sprayers, and pumps. Skill in dealing effectively with community partners, governmental officials, and citizens. Ability to operate, maintain, and transport heavy trucks, farm tractors, wildland fire engines, pumps, chainsaws, mowers, and trimmers used in Conservation Land maintenance, fuels management and restoration. Ability to carry out duties with environmental sensitivity in accordance with program mission, goals, and standards. Ability to use hand-held GPS tracking technology in smart phone or tablet. Ability to follow standard operating procedures and compile routine reports and maintain accurate records. Ability to effectively supervise and coordinate the activities of subordinate employees. Ability to implement resource management techniques, utilize related equipment and follow safety procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations. Ability to work outdoors in overgrown brush in adverse weather conditions. Ability to interact with the public in a tactful and courteous manner. Ability to create concise, clear and succinct technical reports. Ability to research technical problems, formulate recommendations, and compile related reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, County employees, the general public and other County agencies. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand for long periods and walk considerable distances over uneven ground through trail-less natural areas while carrying field gear, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, and smell. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to use PPE (personal protective equipment), including a hard hat, boots, eyewear, gloves, and other equipment). The employee is regularly required to work independently and in small and large teams. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally assist with lifting or moving up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee may regularly work near moving parts and are occasionally exposed to smoke, fumes, gas, herbicides, or airborne particles. The employee may perform field work in inclement weather and harsh conditions such as rocky, loose, or muddy ground surface, thick vegetation, down/standing trees, wet leaves/grasses, varied climates (cold, hot, wet, dry, humid, rain, wind, thunderstorms), wet areas and dense brush with biting insects, venomous animals or irritating plants and allergens. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally loud. Supplemental Information Acceptable (equivalent) Education/Experience: Master’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, forestry, wildlife ecology, land/recreation management, natural science, or a related field, and one year of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, forestry, wildlife ecology, land/recreation management, natural science, or a related field, and three years of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) Associates degree (2 years) and 5 years of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) High School diploma or equivalent and 7 years of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) Other acceptable related fields include: Botany, Zoology, and Agronomy. An organization is only as good as the people it employs. To attract and retain the best team possible, the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners offers a competitive benefit program. We believe that if we expect our employees to support the County, we must first support the health and financial well-being of our employees and their families, now and as they plan for their future. BoCC-Contributed Benefits Medical/Health Insurance Employee Life Insurance Florida Retirement System Employee Assistance Program Optional Benefits Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Supplemental & Dependent Life Insurance Deferred Retirement Program Flexible Spending Accounts Roth IRA Tuition Assistance Program NOTE: For detailed information regarding available benefits click here. You may also view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding benefits. FLORIDA RETIREMENT SYSTEM (FRS) The Florida Retirement System is a retirement plan designed to provide an income to a vested employee and his/her family when the employee retires, becomes partially or totally disabled, or dies prior to retirement. A defined benefit or defined contribution option may be chosen by the employee. TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Permanent, full-time employees are eligible for educational assistance funds. Contact the Human Resources Office for program details. HOLIDAYS Holidays are as follows: New Years Day Martin Luther King Day Memorial Day Juneteenth Independence Day Labor Day Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Day Friday following Thanksgiving Christmas Eve (IAFF*) Christmas Day Additional Christmas Holiday (All non-IAFF employees) 2 Floating Holidays (All non- IAFF employees) *IAFF – International Association of Firefighters Pay periods are every two weeks, Monday through Sunday. Payday is Friday. International Association of Firefighters follow the General Contract 7k regarding holidays. Vacation Leave – Generous vacation accrual rates with payout of unused accrued leave, with some restrictions. For more detailed information regarding vacation leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-2 . Sick leave is earned at a rate of 4 hours per pay period by all permanent, full-time employees*. At the end of each fiscal year, eligible employees can convert up to 10 days of accrued sick leave to vacation leave on a 2:1 basis. For more detailed information regarding sick leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-3 *Accruals slightly different for IAFF employee.
Full-time
Minimum Qualifications This Senior Environmental Specialist position in the Land Conservation and Management program will plan, supervise, coordinate, and implement habitat restoration and manage staff and activities on the Alachua County nature preserves. Critical activities include prescribed burning, invasive plant treatments, forest resource management, preserve infrastructure improvements, natural areas site evaluations, and drafting and implementing management plans. Bachelor's degree with major course work in environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, forestry, wildlife ecology, land/recreation management, natural science, or a related field, and three years of professional level environmental related experience; or any equivalent combination of related training and experience. Applicants within six months of meeting the education/experience requirement may be considered for trainee status. A Valid Florida Driver License is required and a Motor Vehicle Record that meets the requirements of Alachua County policy #6-7; Motor Vehicle Records will be reviewed prior to employment. If, in the past 24-month period, the applicants Motor Vehicle Record has more than three (3) moving traffic infractions or three (3) or more at fault motor vehicle accidents (or combination of both and /or a conviction/pending charge for driving under the influence) or is in violation of any standard mandated by Federal or State Law or Regulation, the minimum qualifications are not met for the position. Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen & physical examination and successful completion of all applicable background checks pre-hire and ongoing are required. Post-hire requirements for this classification include:•Must successfully complete the Annual Fireline Refresher training (RT-130) within the first 6 months of hire in this classification, and annually prior to February 1st each calendar year. •Must obtain and maintain CPR certification and First Aid and Safety certification within one year of employment in this classification. •Must complete National Wildlife Coordinating Group (NWCG) Moderate (or Arduous) Work Capacity Test within one year of hire in this classification and annually prior to February 1st each calendar year. •Must obtain and maintain a Certified Pesticide Applicator License (Public Applicator) with Natural Areas Weed Management Category within one year of hire in this classification. •Must successfully complete National Wildlife Coordinating Group (NWCG) S-130/S-190 within eighteen months of hire in this classification. Position Summary This is a professional role supervising and coordinating work in the protection, evaluation, acquisition, stewardship, and/or management of conservation lands for Alachua County. The employee assigned to this classification is responsible for various land conservation management activities such as prescribed burn operations, invasive plant treatments, protection of imperiled species, evaluating new acquisition sites, developing and implementing land management plans, drafting scopes of services, and overseeing contractors, and public outreach. Work is performed under the direction of a higher-level professional supervisor and is reviewed through conferences, reports, and observation of results obtained. Examples of Duties This is an emergency essential classification. Upon declaration of a disaster and/or emergency, all employees in this classification are required to work. Exudes a positive customer service focus. Advocates building organizational culture through aligning decisions with the County's core values. Supervises and coordinates the activities of subordinate employees including determining work procedures and schedules; issuing instructions and assigning duties; reviewing work; recommending personnel actions; conducting performance reviews; and conducting departmental training and orientation. Plans, supervises, and implements land stewardship activities on Alachua County natural areas including invasive plant control, prescribed burning, forestry, data collection, public access site development, monitoring, and maintenance and security. Develops and implements projects, scopes of work, and contracts; coordinates and oversees staff and contractors performing land stewardship activities such as invasive plant and animal control, site preparation, planting, imperiled species protection, timber inventorying and harvesting, site maintenance, public access site development, natural and cultural resource monitoring, natural areas restoration, field inspections, environmental monitoring, land management plan development, and prescribed burning. Actively participates in all aspects of prescribed fire operations including fire line prep, burn unit scouting, prescription writing, day of burns operations, and extended mop up in roles such as burn boss, crew boss, or burn crew member on prescribed burns, as appropriate. Plans and implements maintenance and creation of firebreaks and preparation of areas for burning. Coordinates with the Florida Forest Service, contractors, and other agencies on prescribed burning and other stewardship activities. Performs environmental assessments of properties nominated for acquisition through the Alachua County Forever Program to identify natural resources, physiographic and ecological characteristics, hydrological resources, manageability, management costs, and public accessibility. Plans, coordinates, and oversees volunteer group work projects. Performs conservation easement compliance inspections; documents site evaluations in reports; and completes activity logs. Develops and participates in public outreach activities. Plans, coordinates and manages all aspects of opening new sites for public access and maintaining existing public access infrastructure. Purchases operating supplies and manages inventory of tools, equipment, materials, and public facilities. Designs and establishes environmental monitoring programs as needed. Conducts and oversees field collection of samples, data, and observations for environmental analysis; evaluates findings and prepares reports, summaries, and recommendations. Develop tables, charts, spreadsheets, maps, and databases to track environmental data. Coordinates with regulatory agencies and assists the supervisor with operating reports, budget input, and presentations to various Boards, including presenting evaluation reports and findings to the Land Conservation Board. Operates, as required, motor vehicles (including but not limited to departmental motor vehicles and four-wheel drive vehicles, ATVs, UTVs, wildland fire engines, skid steers, and tractors), as well as small equipment and machinery, to conduct job duties that include field tests, inspections, evaluations, prescribed burns, debris clean up, restoration projects, invasive species control, on-site evaluations, plant and animal surveys, and other ecological monitoring as appropriate. Operates small equipment such as power tools, chainsaws, pole saws, backpack sprayers and pumps and assists with basic equipment maintenance. Performs the duties listed, as well as those assigned, with professionalism and a sense of urgency. NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various kinds of work performed in positions allocated to this class. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Thorough knowledge of the technical methods and procedures involved in the administration of environmental regulations, programs and policies. This includes technical methods and procedures involved in land management and acquisition; theories and practices of ecology and land management, including restoration, weed science and prescribed burning; knowledge of the flora, fauna, and ecology of North Central Florida; natural and historic resource protection, land acquisition and land stewardship. Considerable knowledge of environmental sampling procedures and equipment. Knowledge of environmental protection and land conservation. Knowledge of local, state, and federal rules, regulations, and ordinances related to environmental protection. Knowledge of word processing, data management programs, and Geographic Information Systems software. Knowledge of effective supervisory techniques and modern principles and practices of supervision. Considerable skill in the identification of local natural communities and native and invasive flora and fauna as it relates to the Land Conservation Program within the Environmental Protection Department. Skill in the safe operation of motor vehicles, trailers, tractors, skid steers, and small equipment such as power tools, chainsaws, pole saws, backpack sprayers, and pumps. Skill in dealing effectively with community partners, governmental officials, and citizens. Ability to operate, maintain, and transport heavy trucks, farm tractors, wildland fire engines, pumps, chainsaws, mowers, and trimmers used in Conservation Land maintenance, fuels management and restoration. Ability to carry out duties with environmental sensitivity in accordance with program mission, goals, and standards. Ability to use hand-held GPS tracking technology in smart phone or tablet. Ability to follow standard operating procedures and compile routine reports and maintain accurate records. Ability to effectively supervise and coordinate the activities of subordinate employees. Ability to implement resource management techniques, utilize related equipment and follow safety procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations. Ability to work outdoors in overgrown brush in adverse weather conditions. Ability to interact with the public in a tactful and courteous manner. Ability to create concise, clear and succinct technical reports. Ability to research technical problems, formulate recommendations, and compile related reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, County employees, the general public and other County agencies. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand for long periods and walk considerable distances over uneven ground through trail-less natural areas while carrying field gear, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, and smell. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to use PPE (personal protective equipment), including a hard hat, boots, eyewear, gloves, and other equipment). The employee is regularly required to work independently and in small and large teams. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally assist with lifting or moving up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee may regularly work near moving parts and are occasionally exposed to smoke, fumes, gas, herbicides, or airborne particles. The employee may perform field work in inclement weather and harsh conditions such as rocky, loose, or muddy ground surface, thick vegetation, down/standing trees, wet leaves/grasses, varied climates (cold, hot, wet, dry, humid, rain, wind, thunderstorms), wet areas and dense brush with biting insects, venomous animals or irritating plants and allergens. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally loud. Supplemental Information Acceptable (equivalent) Education/Experience: Master’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, forestry, wildlife ecology, land/recreation management, natural science, or a related field, and one year of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, forestry, wildlife ecology, land/recreation management, natural science, or a related field, and three years of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) Associates degree (2 years) and 5 years of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) High School diploma or equivalent and 7 years of professional level environmental related experience. (7 years total) Other acceptable related fields include: Botany, Zoology, and Agronomy. An organization is only as good as the people it employs. To attract and retain the best team possible, the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners offers a competitive benefit program. We believe that if we expect our employees to support the County, we must first support the health and financial well-being of our employees and their families, now and as they plan for their future. BoCC-Contributed Benefits Medical/Health Insurance Employee Life Insurance Florida Retirement System Employee Assistance Program Optional Benefits Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Supplemental & Dependent Life Insurance Deferred Retirement Program Flexible Spending Accounts Roth IRA Tuition Assistance Program NOTE: For detailed information regarding available benefits click here. You may also view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding benefits. FLORIDA RETIREMENT SYSTEM (FRS) The Florida Retirement System is a retirement plan designed to provide an income to a vested employee and his/her family when the employee retires, becomes partially or totally disabled, or dies prior to retirement. A defined benefit or defined contribution option may be chosen by the employee. TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Permanent, full-time employees are eligible for educational assistance funds. Contact the Human Resources Office for program details. HOLIDAYS Holidays are as follows: New Years Day Martin Luther King Day Memorial Day Juneteenth Independence Day Labor Day Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Day Friday following Thanksgiving Christmas Eve (IAFF*) Christmas Day Additional Christmas Holiday (All non-IAFF employees) 2 Floating Holidays (All non- IAFF employees) *IAFF – International Association of Firefighters Pay periods are every two weeks, Monday through Sunday. Payday is Friday. International Association of Firefighters follow the General Contract 7k regarding holidays. Vacation Leave – Generous vacation accrual rates with payout of unused accrued leave, with some restrictions. For more detailed information regarding vacation leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-2 . Sick leave is earned at a rate of 4 hours per pay period by all permanent, full-time employees*. At the end of each fiscal year, eligible employees can convert up to 10 days of accrued sick leave to vacation leave on a 2:1 basis. For more detailed information regarding sick leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-3 *Accruals slightly different for IAFF employee.
Montgomery County, MD Government
Wheaton, Wheaton-Glenmont, MD, USA
Program Specialist II (Tree Montgomery Program), Grade 21 Montgomery County Government Department of Environmental Protection 2425 Reedie Drive, Wheaton, Maryland 20902
Salary Range: $68,501 to $108,899
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is a nationally recognized and award-winning agency with the mission to enhance the quality of life in our community by protecting and improving Montgomery County’s air, water, and land in a sustainable, innovative, inclusive, and industry-leading way while fostering smart growth, a thriving more sustainable economy and healthy communities. DEP is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and values diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and cultures. DEP encourages BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color), immigrants, women, LGBTQIA+, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR The Department of Environmental Protection is seeking an experienced Program Specialist II to assist with the development and implementation of an efficient inspection program as well as conducting inspections and other in-field activities for the Tree Montgomery shade tree planting program. This tree planting program is consistent with the goals of the Montgomery County Tree Canopy Law , the MS4 permit , and the Climate Action Plan.
The ideal candidate will have considerable knowledge of shade trees, planting and establishing young trees, and evaluating growing conditions for trees, as well as experience in providing guidance to property owners and contractors to improve tree survival, identifying and correcting issues with newly installed trees, and understanding maps and development plans.
The successful candidate will have the ability to convey technical information regarding trees and build strong relationships to assist people equitably, effectively, and tactfully as well as work in a collaborative environment within a large organization with multiple priorities.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING This position will be responsible for implementing an efficient inspection program, as well as identifying and carrying out a range of field adjustments to enhance the long-term survival of newly planted trees. Activities will center on working with other Tree Montgomery staff, applicants to the Tree Montgomery program, and planting contractors and their in-field crews to help meet program goals by inspecting newly planted trees, reporting outcomes, identifying solutions, and working with all stakeholders to implement adjustments. This position will also assist with managing data and maps pertaining to applicants, orders, inspections, and invoicing.
Key duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
Carrying out most aspects of the inspection program including completing inspections of newly planted shade trees before, during, and after installation.
Monitoring activities of contractors for compliance with contracts and industry standards.
Identifying and approving or completing a range of field adjustments to enhance long-term survival of newly planted trees.
Establishing and maintaining communication with contractor’s field representatives and interacting with participants and stakeholders in the Tree Montgomery program.
Advising staff and program participants of outcomes and needed corrections for trees and working with staff and contractors to identify and implement enhancements to the Tree Montgomery program.
Maintaining up-to-date and accurate information about trees planted by the Tree Montgomery program using databases, spreadsheets, mapping and other electronic systems to fully document orders, plantings, inspections, and invoicing.
Overseeing most aspects of the inspection program for trees reported for credit under the County’s MS4 permit by performing inspections and handling associated tasks to complete required inspections and ensuring compliance with the permit.
Possession of a Maryland Tree Expert license or certification as an arborist by an accredited program is a plus.
Bilingual applicants in the Spanish/English languages are encouraged to apply . If the candidate selected for this position possesses multilingual skills, they will be required to successfully pass an examination assessing oral communication, reading comprehension, and interpreting skills. For Advanced proficiency, the candidate must also pass an examination requiring translating text from Spanish to English and vice versa.
The majority of the work is performed outside and requires considerable daily driving between work sites. This position is subject to some light physical effort. This includes standing or driving for long periods of time, walking long distances over varying terrain and occasional stooping, bending, and reaching. Some activities may occasionally require using hand tools from the ground level including hand pruners, loppers, and carrying small branches removed from newly planted trees. Working outside in most weather conditions is involved.
This position requires possession of a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive a County vehicle to travel in all areas of Montgomery County to perform site visits to evaluate newly installed trees or participating properties for compliance with program requirements and industry standards, inspect contractor plantings, and generally to perform work and attend meetings at locations outside the office. Most of the site visits will be in areas of the County lacking in readily available public transportation.
Occasional evening or weekend work outside of normal business hours may be required.
To ensure a positive workplace and to comply with federal, state and County laws, the incumbent is responsible for completing mandatory trainings within the first three to six months or within the specified timeframe.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Experience: Two (2) years of professional experience in tree planting, tree inspection or evaluation programs, arboriculture, forest technology, forestry, or tree nursery operations. Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree. Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education or experience may be substituted. License: Possession and maintenance at all times of a valid Class “C” (or equivalent) driver’s license from the applicant’s state of residence is required.
PREFERRED CRITERIA, INTERVIEW PREFERENCES All Applicants will be reviewed by the Office of Human Resources (OHR) for minimum qualifications. Those applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be rated “Qualified,” placed on the Eligible List, and may be considered for an interview. Employees meeting minimum qualifications who are the same grade or higher will be placed on the Eligible List as a “Transfer” candidate and may be considered for an interview.
Preference for interviews will be given to applicants with experience in the following. Please address this information in a separate section of the resume.
Experience with and knowledge of tree species, site requirements, planting techniques, and care and maintenance of young trees to provide guidance to contractors and program participants regarding newly planted shade trees.
Experience in communicating and collaborating with field crews, individuals, homeowners, business owners, and/or the public, particularly related to trees and the care of young trees.
Experience in inspecting young trees for compliance with industry standards and/or contract specifications, summarizing findings concisely, and using findings to recommend actions needed to correct issues or enhance program procedures and requirements.
Experience maintaining detailed information and data, accurately and timely, in databases and spreadsheets.
If selected for consideration for this position, you may be required to provide evidence that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities indicated on your resume.
Montgomery County Government offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits.
To view the complete job announcement, review our comprehensive benefits and to apply, please visit Program Specialist, Tree Montgomery Program (Program Specialist II, Grade 21) .
The Job Number for the Program Specialist II recruitment is 2025-00045 . Interested candidates must create an online account in order to apply.
This Recruitment Closes February 19, 2025 .
If interested in other DEP job opportunities, please filter by “Department” and click on Department of Environmental Protection.
All resume submissions must address the preferred criteria for the position, preferably in a separate section of the resume.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Resume Preparation Tips listed under the “Career Resources” tab at https://www.Work4MCG.com
EOE. M/F/H.
Full Time
Program Specialist II (Tree Montgomery Program), Grade 21 Montgomery County Government Department of Environmental Protection 2425 Reedie Drive, Wheaton, Maryland 20902
Salary Range: $68,501 to $108,899
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is a nationally recognized and award-winning agency with the mission to enhance the quality of life in our community by protecting and improving Montgomery County’s air, water, and land in a sustainable, innovative, inclusive, and industry-leading way while fostering smart growth, a thriving more sustainable economy and healthy communities. DEP is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and values diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and cultures. DEP encourages BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color), immigrants, women, LGBTQIA+, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR The Department of Environmental Protection is seeking an experienced Program Specialist II to assist with the development and implementation of an efficient inspection program as well as conducting inspections and other in-field activities for the Tree Montgomery shade tree planting program. This tree planting program is consistent with the goals of the Montgomery County Tree Canopy Law , the MS4 permit , and the Climate Action Plan.
The ideal candidate will have considerable knowledge of shade trees, planting and establishing young trees, and evaluating growing conditions for trees, as well as experience in providing guidance to property owners and contractors to improve tree survival, identifying and correcting issues with newly installed trees, and understanding maps and development plans.
The successful candidate will have the ability to convey technical information regarding trees and build strong relationships to assist people equitably, effectively, and tactfully as well as work in a collaborative environment within a large organization with multiple priorities.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING This position will be responsible for implementing an efficient inspection program, as well as identifying and carrying out a range of field adjustments to enhance the long-term survival of newly planted trees. Activities will center on working with other Tree Montgomery staff, applicants to the Tree Montgomery program, and planting contractors and their in-field crews to help meet program goals by inspecting newly planted trees, reporting outcomes, identifying solutions, and working with all stakeholders to implement adjustments. This position will also assist with managing data and maps pertaining to applicants, orders, inspections, and invoicing.
Key duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
Carrying out most aspects of the inspection program including completing inspections of newly planted shade trees before, during, and after installation.
Monitoring activities of contractors for compliance with contracts and industry standards.
Identifying and approving or completing a range of field adjustments to enhance long-term survival of newly planted trees.
Establishing and maintaining communication with contractor’s field representatives and interacting with participants and stakeholders in the Tree Montgomery program.
Advising staff and program participants of outcomes and needed corrections for trees and working with staff and contractors to identify and implement enhancements to the Tree Montgomery program.
Maintaining up-to-date and accurate information about trees planted by the Tree Montgomery program using databases, spreadsheets, mapping and other electronic systems to fully document orders, plantings, inspections, and invoicing.
Overseeing most aspects of the inspection program for trees reported for credit under the County’s MS4 permit by performing inspections and handling associated tasks to complete required inspections and ensuring compliance with the permit.
Possession of a Maryland Tree Expert license or certification as an arborist by an accredited program is a plus.
Bilingual applicants in the Spanish/English languages are encouraged to apply . If the candidate selected for this position possesses multilingual skills, they will be required to successfully pass an examination assessing oral communication, reading comprehension, and interpreting skills. For Advanced proficiency, the candidate must also pass an examination requiring translating text from Spanish to English and vice versa.
The majority of the work is performed outside and requires considerable daily driving between work sites. This position is subject to some light physical effort. This includes standing or driving for long periods of time, walking long distances over varying terrain and occasional stooping, bending, and reaching. Some activities may occasionally require using hand tools from the ground level including hand pruners, loppers, and carrying small branches removed from newly planted trees. Working outside in most weather conditions is involved.
This position requires possession of a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive a County vehicle to travel in all areas of Montgomery County to perform site visits to evaluate newly installed trees or participating properties for compliance with program requirements and industry standards, inspect contractor plantings, and generally to perform work and attend meetings at locations outside the office. Most of the site visits will be in areas of the County lacking in readily available public transportation.
Occasional evening or weekend work outside of normal business hours may be required.
To ensure a positive workplace and to comply with federal, state and County laws, the incumbent is responsible for completing mandatory trainings within the first three to six months or within the specified timeframe.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Experience: Two (2) years of professional experience in tree planting, tree inspection or evaluation programs, arboriculture, forest technology, forestry, or tree nursery operations. Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree. Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education or experience may be substituted. License: Possession and maintenance at all times of a valid Class “C” (or equivalent) driver’s license from the applicant’s state of residence is required.
PREFERRED CRITERIA, INTERVIEW PREFERENCES All Applicants will be reviewed by the Office of Human Resources (OHR) for minimum qualifications. Those applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be rated “Qualified,” placed on the Eligible List, and may be considered for an interview. Employees meeting minimum qualifications who are the same grade or higher will be placed on the Eligible List as a “Transfer” candidate and may be considered for an interview.
Preference for interviews will be given to applicants with experience in the following. Please address this information in a separate section of the resume.
Experience with and knowledge of tree species, site requirements, planting techniques, and care and maintenance of young trees to provide guidance to contractors and program participants regarding newly planted shade trees.
Experience in communicating and collaborating with field crews, individuals, homeowners, business owners, and/or the public, particularly related to trees and the care of young trees.
Experience in inspecting young trees for compliance with industry standards and/or contract specifications, summarizing findings concisely, and using findings to recommend actions needed to correct issues or enhance program procedures and requirements.
Experience maintaining detailed information and data, accurately and timely, in databases and spreadsheets.
If selected for consideration for this position, you may be required to provide evidence that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities indicated on your resume.
Montgomery County Government offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits.
To view the complete job announcement, review our comprehensive benefits and to apply, please visit Program Specialist, Tree Montgomery Program (Program Specialist II, Grade 21) .
The Job Number for the Program Specialist II recruitment is 2025-00045 . Interested candidates must create an online account in order to apply.
This Recruitment Closes February 19, 2025 .
If interested in other DEP job opportunities, please filter by “Department” and click on Department of Environmental Protection.
All resume submissions must address the preferred criteria for the position, preferably in a separate section of the resume.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Resume Preparation Tips listed under the “Career Resources” tab at https://www.Work4MCG.com
EOE. M/F/H.
