About the role
Tree Trimmer - Arborist Apprentice (3 Positions)
Location: 4550 126th Avenue North, Clearwater, FL
Schedule: Monday - Thursday 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and doing hands-on work? Join Pinellas County Public Works – Stormwater & Vegetation Division and build your skills in tree care and forestry operations.
In this role, you will be part of a tree crew and assist with tree maintenance along Pinellas County roadways, parks, preserves, and public spaces. You will work with experienced arborists, utilizing specialized forestry equipment to prune and remove trees to help maintain the health and safety of Pinellas County’s urban forest. You will be expected to perform tasks at both ground level and aloft.
Experience in the tree industry is preferred, but related experience in landscaping, grounds maintenance, forestry, or operating outdoor power equipment is also valuable for this role.
Build Your Skills and Career
Gain hands-on experience in tree care, equipment operation, and safe work practices while learning from experienced arborists. This position offers an opportunity to develop practical skills and build a foundation for a career in forestry and arboriculture.
What Would You Do?
- Assists in both ground and aerial operations, including climbing trees and using aerial lifts, employing powered cutting tools to remove branches that are broken, dead, or present a hazard.
- Supports in the development and implementation of tree care plans, including pruning and removal, especially in tight spaces and along busy roadways,.
- Contributes to the health and safety of the urban forest by trimming trees obstructing visibility or presenting danger and clearing brush from designated areas.
- Assists in operating a variety of heavy machinery, such as boom and bucket trucks, tractors, mechanical chippers, and stumpers, under supervision.
- Performs routine servicing and preventative maintenance work on power tools, machinery, and equipment.
- Performs general maintenance and landscaping work as required, contributing to the overall aesthetics and safety of public spaces.
- Assists in the identification of a wide range of tree-related issues and helps develop effective plans to solve them.
- Assists in the setup and break down of traffic control devices such as signs and cones.
- Performs other related job duties as assigned.
What Do You Need To Have?
- One (1) year of experience in arboriculture, landscaping, tree care maintenance, or directly related occupation; OR
- An equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
Assignment to work a variety of work schedules, including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.
What Experience Is Helpful?
Experience with any of the following may help prepare you for this role:
Equipment Operation: Chainsaws, pole saws, woodchippers, or stump grinders.
Tree Maintenance & Pruning: Tree trimming, tree removal, brush clearing, or forestry ground crew work.
Ground Operations: Outdoor maintenance, landscaping, or other physically demanding field work.
Additional Requirements:
Possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license upon hire, subject to an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
Obtain and maintain a valid Florida Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within six months of hire, subject to an acceptable MVR.
Obtain and maintain ISA Certified Arborist certification if required for the position.
Be available to work varied schedules, including required work during emergencies and disaster response situations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Basic Knowledge of standard methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in arboriculture operations, including the use of saws and other tools.
- Introductory understanding of tree biology, soils, fungi, pest identification, wood anatomy, wood decay, species identification, species profiles, and green log weights.
- Ability to work under the supervision and learn from the Arborist 1 and 2.
- Ability to assist in developing and implementing work plans for tree care, including pruning and removal.
- Ability to communicate effectively with citizens, explaining work objectives in a courteous, confident, and tactful manner.
Our benefits rank among the top in the area!
- Looking for a strong retirement? We have you covered as members of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) with investment and pension options.
- We have deferred compensation programs and wellness centers to name a few perks. Check out these and more!
Want To Learn More?
Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands and Working Conditions at the below link.