Forestry Crew Lead
DPW – Parks and Open Space Division
Hourly Rate: $32.77 | 40 hours weekly

Are you passionate about trees and open spaces? Do you have expertise in arboriculture and leadership skills to guide a dedicated team of forestry professionals? Join the Brookline Parks and Open Space Division as a Forestry Crew Lead and make an impact on the beautiful parks and streets of Brookline!

About Us:

The Brookline Parks and Open Space Division is responsible for maintaining the vibrant parks, streetscapes, and green spaces throughout our community. We are committed to preserving and enhancing the urban forest and ensuring safe, healthy, and beautiful open spaces for all Brookline residents. We are looking for a skilled Forestry Zone Manager to supervise, plan, and implement tree care projects, ensuring the safety, health, and beauty of Brookline's trees.

What You’ll Do:

As the Forestry Crew Lead, you will help lead and oversee forestry operations, manage work crews, and ensure the proper care and maintenance of trees in Brookline. You will:

• Supervise and Manage Crews: Lead, assign, and oversee work crews performing tree maintenance tasks, including pruning, removal, and hazard mitigation for street and park trees.
• Perform Arboriculture Work: Climb trees, operate bucket trucks, and use specialized tools to maintain trees, including pruning, fertilizing, and treating for pests and diseases.
• Plan and Coordinate: Collaborate with other town departments to ensure that work assignments are aligned with overall maintenance and safety goals. Inspect and monitor contractor work for quality.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure all safety protocols are followed, including the safe use of equipment, tools, and protective gear. Respond to emergencies and resolve public inquiries about tree-related issues.
• Maintain Equipment: Oversee the care and upkeep of forestry tools and machinery, including power saws, chainsaws, and other specialized tools.
• Emergency Response: Be part of the team that responds to emergency tree removal and storm damage situations.

What We’re Looking For:

We seek a motivated and knowledgeable Crew Lead with at least 3 years of hands-on experience in tree care and crew supervision. A strong background in arboriculture, tree climbing, and safety is essential. The ideal candidate will also have the following qualifications:

• Education & Experience:
  • High school diploma; Associate’s degree or equivalent technical forestry training is a plus; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • 3 years of direct experience in tree climbing and supervising forestry crews.
  • At least 1 year of supervisory experience.
• Certifications & Skills:
  • Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B required.
  • Hoisting Engineer's License and First Aid/CPR Training required.
  • MA Pesticide Applicator License desirable.
  • Knowledge of tree care practices, pesticide use, and equipment maintenance.
  • Ability to climb trees, operate heavy equipment, and work safely in hazardous conditions.

Salary is $32.77 hourly, with an excellent benefits package. Please apply today! This position will remain open until filled.