Job Description
The City of New Hope seeks a forester to lead and manage its urban forestry program. New Hope is a well-maintained community of approximately 5.1 square miles, offering the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the City’s tree canopy and environmental health. The forester plans, directs and coordinates the City’s urban forestry program, including tree maintenance, weed control and community education on related topics. This position performs skilled technical and administrative work and completes related duties as assigned. The forester reports to the director of parks and recreation. The forester collaborates with City departments and neighboring city governments, particularly the City of Crystal, with which New Hope shares an irregular border. The ideal candidate is a team-oriented, motivated professional with strong communication skills, knowledge of urban forestry practices and a commitment to public service. This is a year-round position.
Although New Hope, located in the Northwest Suburbs of the Twin Cities, is considered a fully developed community, the city is in a period of growth in population, housing and businesses. Regional forecasts show New Hope's population increasing slightly over the next few decades (2020 Census was 21,986). Between 2015 and 2020, 292 new units of housing were constructed in the city and more new housing is in the planning process. Many homeowners are also reinvigorating existing homes by expanding or making improvements that suit their lifestyle. Over the past couple of years, the city has issued an average of approximately 2,500 building permits annually, representing an investment of about $38 million each year in New Hope homes and businesses. New Hope has a thriving business community of nearly 500 businesses. The city has a strong industrial tax base, with three major industrial parks, and a strong commercial sector, with five commercial and retail centers. New Hope’s businesses continue to grow, often requiring significant building expansions and renovations. New Hope's employers provide a significant number of jobs. It is estimated that there are more than 10,000 jobs located in New Hope.