Forestry Foreman

Duties : Under the supervision of the Supervisor of Park Horticulture & Recreation Maintenance, the Forestry Foreman is responsible for:

- Directing and performing the removal of dead and dangerous trees and stumps in all areas maintained by the Park District.

- Directing and performing the pruning of trees to current arboriculture standards.

- Performing preventative maintenance on tools and equipment.

- Operating any specialized equipment needed in arboricultural work.

- Planting and transplanting young trees and shrubs.

- Requisitioning supplies and equipment required for the work of the Forestry crew and keeping maintenance records of the same.

- Keeping time records of employees assigned to the Forestry crew.

- Following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Supporting all aspects of the Park District's safety program.

- Performing other related duties as assigned.

Essential Functions :

- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

- Ability to reach, walk, pull, push, kneel, squat, and bend at the waist and knees.

- Ability to climb ladders.

- Ability to balance on ladders, uneven surfaces, and in buckets on trucks.

- Ability to operate vibratory tools as needed to complete job duties.

- Ability to operate power machinery relative to job duties.

- Ability to operate motor vehicles weighing 16 tons.

- Ability to understand and complete record keeping and paperwork relative to job duties.

Qualifications

Education:    Junior college certificate with a major in horticulture or related field required. Advanced training in arboriculture is desirable.

Experience:    A minimum of five years in forestry work and the operation of equipment used in tree removal and major pruning.

Personal:    Work record that shows reliability, strength and agility, mechanical aptitude, willingness and ability to work at heights in trees; freedom from vertigo and dizziness.

Knowledge and Ability:

- Working knowledge of forestry operation methods, and skills with specialized arboricultural equipment and hand tools.

- Must maintain a valid Illinois State Class A 'CDL' Driver's License with airbrakes endorsement.

- Requires the ability to supervise the activities of subordinate staff.

- Requires the ability to coordinate and direct the activities of assigned work.

- Requires the ability to direct the safe and efficient trimming and felling of trees.

- This position is represented by the Teamsters Local Union 627.

Benefits and Perks :

- Paid sick days, vacation days, and holidays.

- Longevity bonus program and wellness program.

- Pension and retirement programs and Social Security participating.

- Exceptional health plan.

- Paid Life Insurance.

- Disability Insurance.

- Full-time employees and dependents enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.