The Forestry & Trails Maintenance Specialist will support the Montgomery County Landscaping Division through the daily maintenance, management and development of the Parks and Recreation trees and trails. Responsibilities include the development, implementation and oversite of trees and trails programs, including trail management, forest health management, erosion control, tree maintenance and removal, fuels reduction, vegetation removal, needs assessments, and the coordination of programs, initiatives and restoration projects to enhance County parks.
The following duties are normal for this position. However, they are not to be construed as exclusive or all–inclusive. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may also be required or assigned.
● Leads the planting, trimming, spraying, watering, fertilization, mulching, removal and overall maintenance of tree work from the ground and elevated heights.
● Responds to fallen trees, dead limbs and other debris resulting from storm damage and general conditions throughout park properties.
● Operates various equipment and tools which are used for daily tree work, trail maintenance and landscaping assignments.
● Conducts monthly audits and safety assessments of trail systems and tree conditions including; the trail corridor, erosion, hazards, overgrowth, invasive species and overall maintenance needs.
● Repairs and restores natural trail surfaces from the impact of trail tread deterioration, encroachments, invasive vegetation, tripping hazards, erosion and the upkeep of signage/way finding.
● Develops seasonal and annual maintenance programs and projects to establish preventative and ongoing care of trees and trail-related infrastructure including the coordination and leadership of volunteer opportunities and group projects.
● Develops good forest and wildlife habitat conservation methods.
● Conducts spray applications of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers.
● Prepares reports, project plans, and related documents as needed.
● Assists with the grounds keeping needs of landscaping assignments across park properties such as mowing, edging, gardening, and mulch applications.
● Assists with the establishment of park beautification standards and annual practices including seasonal pruning and clean-outs of park properties, irrigation, agronomy schedules and soil management.
● Position requires working some weekends/special events.
Knowledge of:
● Knowledge of natural resource management, forestry, trail maintenance, weed abatement and maintenance project planning.
● Experience with tree falling, trimming and pruning with the aid of ropes, wedges, climbers, safety belts and aerial lifts.
● Ability to safely operate maintenance equipment including chain saws, pole saws, brush chipper, utility vehicles, tractors, mowers, etc.
● Ability to lead work groups.
● Knowledge of trail system maintenance standards, construction, and design.
● Knowledge of the horticultural needs of planting, pruning and caring for trees of all native species from infancy throughout a tree's lifespan.
Skill in:
● Operating and maintaining all assigned vehicles or equipment.
● Performing a variety of semi-skilled maintenance tasks.
● Following procedures outlined in print and electronic technical manuals.
● Reading and interpreting policy and procedure manuals.
● Performing manual labor.
● Communicating clearly and concisely primarily in verbal form.
● Organizational and time management to prioritize duties to accomplish a high volume of work product while adapting to constant changes in priority.
● Applying judgment and discretion in resolving problems and interpreting policies and regulations.