The City Forester position involves overseeing the management and enhancement of the city's urban forestry program, including the care of approximately 70,000 public trees, strategic planning, development review, staff supervision (managing 20 full-time and 4 variable hour staff), and community engagement. This role also includes developing and implementing work plans, conducting tree inventories, managing tree maintenance activities (planting, pruning, removal, disease management), ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing budgets (including $500,000 annually for contracted services). The City Forester will also educate the public, organize community events, act as a liaison, develop and enforce policies, participate in the development review process, implement safety protocols, respond to emergencies, and collaborate with other agencies. They will also maintain records and prepare reports.

The minimum qualifications for this position include a Bachelor’s degree in forestry, ornamental horticulture, natural resources, or a related field. Candidates must have at least five years of relevant professional experience, with a minimum of three years in a supervisory role. Required knowledge includes green infrastructure, trees and construction, urban wood utilization, urban heat mitigation and climate-smart management, tree selection, plant health care, emergency management, plan review, ecosystem services, supervisory principles, horticultural practices, relevant laws and regulations, occupational hazards, administrative procedures, budgeting, contract administration, and fostering effective relationships. Necessary skills include strong interpersonal, decision-making, analytical, and negotiation skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, and computer proficiency. Candidates must possess the ability to establish effective working relationships, handle sensitive situations, communicate complex information, establish long-term goals, supervise a large workforce, administer budgets, and manage multiple tasks. Required licenses and certifications include an ISA Certified Arborist and a valid Colorado Driver’s license with a good driving record. An ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (or similar advanced certification) is required within six months of employment.