12/15/2022 11:59 PM Central

The Urban Forester-Codes position develops, administers, and monitors programs and policies to ensure industry compliance and manage tree planting and maintenance within Davidson County on public lands and right-of-ways. Performs related duties as required.

During the 2021 fiscal year, Codes issued and tracked $5.3 billion in building permits, more than any previous year. The department concerns itself with the safety of the public as occupants in homes and buildings throughout the county, and also promotes beautiful neighborhoods through the enforcement of local codes and zoning regulations. Codes is an exciting place to work during this period of growth and construction.

• Administer the Metropolitan Tree Ordinances and establishes related policies and procedures.
  • Establish and administer program for licensing arborists.
  • Establish and monitor a tree planting program to ensure proper planting procedures for such factors as drainage, surface space for roots, etc. on right-of-way and public grounds.
  • Provide expertise and recommendations to contractors, architects, and the public for reviewing long- range plans and new projects for compliance with guidelines and standards.
  • Conduct research studies pertaining to tree-related issues.
• Enforce ordinance and industry regulation concerning tree maintenance.
  • Issue Tree Removal permits.
  • Issue citations and stop work orders on projects.
  • Issue abate notices or orders tree replacements for violators of Metro ordinances.
  • May appear in Court to serve as expert witness, as needed.
  • Order removal of hazard and diseased trees as necessary.
• Review contractor blueprints for tree density and related factors and approves project continuance.
  • Ensure that plants and trees are well-kept and treated in accordance with regulations.
  • Monitor surgery on diseased and/or hazard trees.
  • Provide community services in the interests of the Metro Tree Ordinance.
  • Educate contractors and related personnel of industry and local ordinance standards.
• Plan and performs various public relations activities.
  • Write advice/information column in the Metro Codes Newsletter for contractors and engineers.
  • Visit local schools and provides educational information about horticulture and environmental issues.
  • Prepare programs and brochures for the public.
  • Informs the public about tree-related topics.
• Correspond with various agencies and individuals.
• Attend community and departmental meetings.
• Advise other Metro departments and public utility companies on tree trimming, removal and replacement procedures.
• Assist the Tree Advisory Committee to Metropolitan Beautification and Environment Commission.

Bachelor's Degree in Forestry, Plant and Soil Science, or Ornamental Horticulture, or related degree and five (5) years experience in urban tree planning, environmental regulation, ordinances, codes or a related field.

LICENSES REQUIRED
Valid Driver License

Any employee in this classification shall obtain the following certifications within (2) years from the effective date of his/her appointment to said classification:

• 
  Certified Arborist (ISA)
• Certified In Legal Aspects of Code Enforcement (SBCCI)
• Certified In Zoning and Property Standards (SBCCI)

• 4 or more years of Urban Forestry
• Experience reviewing contractor blueprints
• Skill in presenting information to a wide variety of audiences
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite of products ( Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Full-time, Civil Service positions -
10 Vacation Days per year (increasing after 5 years of service)
1 Sick Day per month
12 Paid Holidays per year

Public Safety - Sworn and Civilian positions -
20 vacation days per year
3 Personal days per year
1 Sick Day per month
12 paid holidays per year

Part-time, Non Civil Service positions - Visit HR and Benefits webpages for more information.

Full-time, Non Civil Service positions - contact hiring department for benefits information

Seasonal/Temporary positions - no benefits offered.