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  • Urban Forestry and Sustainability Assistant

    Auburn, Alabama United States City of Auburn, AL Temporary $15.08 Hourly May 08, 2025
    City of Auburn Employer:

    City of Auburn, AL

    Auburn, Alabama is committed to being an attractive, environmentally conscious community that is progressive, responsive and hospitable. This community desires for all citizens: safe and attractive neighborhoods with adequate housing quality educational opportunities diverse cultural and recreational opportunities vibrant economic opportunities active involvement of all citizens Public Service is the mission and calling of the employees of the City of Auburn. As representatives of the City, we work more closely with our customers than in any other level of government. With that close interaction comes expectations that are inherently different than those associated with federal government, state government or private business. What we do and how we do it are critical to the well-being of the Auburn community, which includes family members, friends, neighbors, educators, physicians, clergy and Auburn citizens from every walk of life. The public's trust is essential to Auburn’s continued success, and our daily actions impact that trust. We strive, therefore, to serve the public with the highest standards of excellence and accountability. We seek daily to earn and maintain the trust of the Auburn community and never to take it for granted. We recognize that the calling of public service is honorable and important, and so it is proudly that we serve those who call Auburn home. With dedication to public service we affirm the following Core Values: Respect. We show respect in all our interactions. Respect for People – We treat all individuals with respect, courtesy and genuine concern. We also respect the work of our co-workers and strive to show sincere appreciation for what they do. Diversity – We embrace the broad diversity of City employees and the Auburn residents they serve. We value the new perspectives and ideas this diversity brings. Ownership of Property – We respect property, both public and personal. Integrity. Unquestionable integrity must be at the heart of our efforts to provide citizens with the best public services possible. Honesty – We believe in transparent, open government, recognizing that nothing short of honesty and moral integrity will build community trust, the spirit of teamwork and a well-functioning work environment. We value truthfulness in our work endeavors and in relationships with others. Accountability – We take responsibility for errors and adhere to the highest standards of ethics, conduct and the law. No Conflict of Interest – Every judgment we make as employees must be free of even the appearance of conflicts. Our goal is to strictly observe an invisible wall separating city government operations from personal or political interests, avoiding any possibility that one will inappropriately influence the other. Conscientious Action – What we do and say impacts the image of the City of Auburn and its employees. Therefore, our personal conduct, as it reflects on the City of Auburn, must be beyond reproach. Fairness. We provide services and administer municipal ordinances equally, fairly and without regard for personal beliefs or opinions. Favoritism – We do not favor or discriminate against any business, citizen or group of citizens – for any reason. Objectivity – We make decisions and recommendations based on accurate information, gathered honestly, presented objectively and with the best interests of the City as our overriding goal. Reliability. The services we provide must be dependable and consistent in both day-to-day operations and in times of special need or emergency. Professional Excellence. We consistently strive to reach our full potential as an organization and as individuals by knowing our jobs and our City, so that we can excel in providing competent, dependable and efficient service. We understand that doing the right things is not good enough. We must do the right things in the right way. Exceed expectations – We focus on our assigned tasks, perform our jobs to the best of our abilities, and seek to complete our work in a manner that exceeds expectations. Innovation – We value feedback about our work and seek to improve as a result. Never bound by habit or tradition, we strive to stay vigilant in the search for new and innovative ways to better perform public services. Communication – We value professional, useful, informative, and honest communication among ourselves and with our community. We understand that active listening is a critical part of our communication process. Continual learning – We seek to upgrade our professional competence by staying up to date on emerging issues, new technology, and job-related knowledge. Teamwork – We work together and acknowledge that working cooperatively contributes to healthy work relationships, a more effective organization, and the greater good of the Auburn citizens.  

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.

    URBAN FORESTRY AND SUSTAINABILITY ASSISTANT

    Department: Public Works

    Pay Grade: Temporary Pay Table

    FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

    Personnel Status: Temporary Part-Time

    JOB SUMMARY

    This position is responsible is responsible for assisting the Public Works Department in support of the Urban Forestry and Sustainability Programs. This position reports to the Urban Forestry Specialist.

    ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
    • Evaluates trees with regard to species, size, location, health risk to right-of-way, City property, and private property.
    • Records data manually and within the GIS inventory of City trees.
    • Contributes to the City’s sustainability efforts, both within the organization and through participation in public outreach events.
    • Keeps immediate supervisor and designated others fully and accurately informed concerning work progress, including present and potential work problems and suggestions for new or improved ways of addressing such problems.
    • Attends meetings, conferences, workshops and training sessions and reviews publications and audio-visual materials to become and remain current on the principles, practices, and new developments is assigned work areas.
    • Responds to citizens’ questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.
    • Performs other related job duties as assigned.

    AGENCY-WIDE COMPETENCIES

    Professional Excellence

    Sense of responsibility and commitment; ability to meet expectations; quality of work output; willingness to admit and correct mistakes.

    Communication

    Ability to express oneself clearly, credibly, and respectfully in an appropriate tone; quality of judgment exercised in what information should be communicated; ability to adjust to different communication styles.

    Teamwork

    Commitment to team activities; placing value of team success over personal recognition; altruism; impact on team success; willingness to fulfill a variety of roles.

    Engagement

    Initiative exercised in solving problems; willingness to take on new responsibilities; acting on opportunities and presenting ideas; modeling a positive attitude and resilience; volunteering for group work; praising work of the City and coworkers; demonstrating pride in public service.

    Public Service

    Views citizens as a priority; demonstrates ethical, trustworthy behavior, stands as an example of servant leadership; maintains trust of the Auburn citizens.

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Education and Experience:

    High school diploma or equivalent; one (1) to two (2) years’ experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

    Special Qualifications:

    • Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. Requirement exists at the time of hire and as a condition of continued employment.


    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
    • Knowledge of the methods, principles, techniques, equipment, tools, and practices of contemporary arboriculture and urban forestry.
    • Knowledge of local government operations, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
    • Knowledge of relevant safety regulations, practices, and procedures.
    • Knowledge of tree species, tree diseases and pests, and common treatment methods for trees afflicted by disease or pests.
    • Knowledge of grounds and landscape maintenance principles.
    • Knowledge of job-related software and computer programs (e.g., CityWorks and ArcGIS).
    • Knowledge of local government operations, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
    • Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs.
    • Skill in the development of urban forestry planning, street tree master planning and contemporary streetscape design.
    • Skill in the evaluation of tree health.
    • Skill in the use and maintenance of a variety of grounds maintenance equipment.
    • Skill in using computers for data entry, word processing, and/or accounting purposes.
    • Skill in the use of small office equipment, including calculators, copy machines or multi-line telephone systems.
    • Skill in effective communication, both orally and in writing.
    • Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner.
    • Ability to get along with others and work effectively with the public and co-workers.
    • Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
    • Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and/or accounting purposes.
    • Ability to work independently, work well with others, and manage time effectively.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS

    The work is medium work, which requires exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, bending, climbing, crouching, or walking. The employee uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity and climbs ladders and distinguishing between shades of color.

    WORK ENVIRONMENT

    The work is typically performed in an office and various outdoor environments. The employee is exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, machinery with moving parts, contagious or infectious diseases, irritating chemicals, and occasional cold or inclement weather. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

    This position is Temporary and not eligible for benefits.

    Closing Date/Time: 6/4/2025 11:59 PM Central
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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A Guide to Government Forestry Jobs: How A Public Lands Management Gives Back

A Guide to Government Forestry Jobs: How A Public Lands Management Gives Back

Government forest service careers span a wide range of responsibilities and expertise levels, offering something for nearly every interest within the field. Here are three of the most common and sought-after positions:

1. Forest Technician

  • Entry-level position
  • Tends to plants on public property, assists in basic management tasks
  • Often involves physical outdoor work

2. Park Ranger

  • Serves as a steward of public lands
  • Enforces regulations, educates visitors, and manages recreational activities
  • Often requires law enforcement training

3. Fish and Wildlife Technician

  • Assists in managing and conserving fish and wildlife populations in forested areas
  • Conducts field surveys, collects data, and monitors species health
  • Often works closely with Forest Ecologists and other specialists

Each of these positions plays a crucial role in the management and preservation of our forest lands. As you consider your career path, think about which aspects of forestry most excite you. Do you thrive on fieldwork like soil conservation, or do you prefer analysis and policy development? Are you passionate about fire protection, or does urban forestry spark your interest?

By understanding the range of available positions, you can better tailor your education, experience, and job search to align with your career goals in government forestry. Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline of firefighting or the precision of GIS mapping, there’s a role in government forestry where you can make a meaningful impact on our natural resources.

 

Educational Requirements and Certifications

Ready to cultivate your knowledge and credentials for a thriving career in government forestry? Let’s explore the educational pathways and certifications that can set you apart in this competitive field.

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree

Most government forestry jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field. Common majors include:

  • Forestry
  • Environmental Science
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Wildlife Biology
  • Conservation Biology
Key coursework often includes:
  • Forest ecology and management
  • Silviculture
  • Soil science
  • Hydrology
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Wildlife management
  • Environmental policy and law
Advanced Degrees

Some specialized or higher-level positions may require a master’s degree or PhD. These are particularly valuable for research-oriented roles or senior management positions. Advanced degrees can focus on areas such as:

  • Forest ecology
  • Ecosystem management
  • Environmental policy
  • Conservation biology
Certifications

While not always mandatory, certifications can significantly enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. Consider pursuing:

Certified Forester (CF)

  • Offered by the Society of American Foresters
  • Requires a combination of education and experience
  • Demonstrates a broad knowledge of forestry principles and practices

Certified Arborist

  • Offered by the International Society of Arboriculture
  • Particularly valuable for urban forestry positions

ESRI Technical Certifications

  • For GIS specialists or those working extensively with mapping software
  • Demonstrates proficiency in using ArcGIS and other ESRI products

Project Management Professional (PMP)

  • Useful for those managing large-scale forestry projects
  • Demonstrates skills in planning, executing, and overseeing complex initiatives
Continuing Education

The field of forestry is constantly evolving. Many agencies encourage or require ongoing professional development through workshops, seminars, and courses on topics like:

  • Climate change adaptation
  • Invasive species management
  • Advanced GIS applications
  • Fire ecology and management

While formal education and certifications are crucial, hands-on experience is equally valuable. Consider internships, volunteer work, or seasonal positions to complement your academic credentials and stand out in the competitive government forestry job market.

By combining a strong educational foundation with relevant certifications and practical experience, you’ll be well-positioned to launch a successful career in government forestry. Stay curious, keep learning, and let your passion for forest conservation guide your professional development journey.

 

Skills and Qualities Needed for Success

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Beyond formal education, what personal attributes will help you thrive in a government forestry career? Let’s look at the mix of hard and soft skills that can set you apart in this dynamic field.

Successful government foresters possess a unique blend of technical knowledge, practical skills, and personal qualities. Here’s what you’ll need to excel:

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping software
  • Understanding of forest management principles and practices
  • Knowledge of relevant environmental laws and regulations
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills
  • Familiarity with remote sensing technologies
  • Basic programming skills (e.g., R, Python) for data analysis

Field Skills

  • Ability to navigate using maps and GPS
  • Proficiency in using forestry tools (e.g., clinometers, increment borers)
  • Plant and wildlife identification skills
  • First aid and wilderness survival knowledge
  • Experience with field data collection techniques

Physical Abilities

  • Stamina for long days of fieldwork in various weather conditions
  • Ability to carry heavy equipment over rough terrain
  • Comfort working in remote areas

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

  • Critical thinking to assess complex ecological systems
  • Ability to analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions
  • Creative problem-solving for unique environmental challenges

Communication Skills

  • Strong written communication for reports and grant applications
  • Verbal communication skills for presenting findings and educating the public
  • Ability to explain technical concepts to non-experts

Interpersonal Skills

  • Teamwork and collaboration abilities
  • Cultural sensitivity when working with diverse communities
  • Conflict resolution skills for managing stakeholder interests

Adaptability

  • Flexibility to work in changing environmental and political landscapes
  • Willingness to learn new technologies and methodologies
  • Ability to shift between office work and field assignments

Attention to Detail

  • Precision in data collection and analysis
  • Careful observation of environmental changes
  • Accuracy in following safety protocols and regulations

Project Management

  • Ability to plan and execute long-term projects
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Budget management experience

Environmental Passion

  • Genuine interest in conservation and environmental stewardship
  • Commitment to sustainable forest management practices
  • Enthusiasm for outdoor work and nature

You can also hone your skills in the following ways:

  • Seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience.
  • Join professional organizations like the Society of American Foresters.
  • Attend workshops and conferences to stay updated on industry trends.
  • Practice your communication skills through presentations or writing for forestry publications.
  • Develop your leadership abilities through team projects or community initiatives.

In the ever-evolving field of forestry, one of the most valuable skills is the ability to continue learning throughout your career. Stay curious, embrace new challenges, and never stop growing your skillset.

By cultivating this diverse range of skills and qualities, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the complex challenges of government forestry work. Whether you’re managing a controlled burn, analyzing satellite imagery, or collaborating with local communities, your broad skill set will enable you to make a meaningful impact in forest conservation and management.

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Challenges and Rewards of Government Forestry Work

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Like any career, government forestry has its ups and downs. Are you prepared to face the challenges and reap the incredible rewards of this vital field?

Challenges

1. Budget Constraints

  • Limited funding can restrict projects and resources
  • Need to be creative in maximizing impact with available funds

2. Bureaucracy

  • Navigating complex government systems and regulations
  • Potentially slower decision-making processes

3. Balancing Diverse Stakeholder Interests

  • Mediating between environmental, economic, and recreational needs
  • Addressing conflicts between different user groups

4. Political Influences

  • Adapting to changing administrations and policy priorities
  • Maintaining scientific integrity amid political pressures

5. Remote Work Locations

  • Potential for assignments in isolated areas
  • Limited access to urban amenities

6. Physical Demands

  • Fieldwork can be physically challenging and sometimes dangerous
  • Exposure to harsh weather conditions and natural hazards

7. Work-Life Balance

  • Seasonal demands may require long hours during peak periods
  • Emergency responses (e.g., wildfires) can disrupt personal plans

8. Emotional Challenges

  • Witnessing environmental degradation or loss of forest resources
  • Dealing with public criticism or resistance to management decisions

9. Technological Adaptation

  • Keeping up with rapidly evolving forestry technologies and methods
  • Integrating new tools into established practices

Rewards

1. Environmental Impact

  • Direct contribution to forest conservation and sustainability
  • Opportunity to shape the future of natural resources

2. Job Stability and Benefits

  • Government positions often offer good job security
  • Comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance and retirement plans

3. Diverse and Engaging Work

  • Variety of tasks and projects, from fieldwork to policy development
  • Continuous learning opportunities in a dynamic field

4. Career Advancement

  • Clear career paths within government agencies
  • Opportunities for specialization and leadership roles

5. Work in Natural Settings

  • Regular exposure to beautiful, often pristine environments
  • Connection with nature as part of daily work

6. Professional Community

  • Collaboration with passionate, like-minded professionals
  • Participation in a global community of forest stewards

7. Public Service

  • Satisfaction of serving the public and future generations
  • Ability to educate others about forest conservation

8. Scientific Contribution

  • Opportunities to participate in research and data collection
  • Potential to contribute to scientific understanding of forest ecosystems

9. Tangible Results

  • Visible outcomes of forest management and restoration efforts
  • Long-term impact on landscape and wildlife populations

10. Work-Life Integration

  • For outdoor enthusiasts, work aligns closely with personal interests
  • Potential for unique experiences like living in national forests

While the challenges of government forestry work are real, many professionals find that the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. The opportunity to make a lasting impact on our natural world drives many to pursue and persist in this vital career.

Many of the challenges in government forestry work are also opportunities for growth and innovation. Budget constraints can spark creative solutions, while stakeholder conflicts can lead to more inclusive and sustainable management practices. Your ability to navigate these challenges will not only advance your career but also contribute to better forest management overall.

When you understand both the challenges and rewards of government forestry work, you can make an informed decision about your career path and prepare yourself for the realities of this important field. Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of nature, the complexity of ecosystem management, or the satisfaction of public service, a career in government forestry offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in the world.

 

Resources for Further Information

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Your journey into government forestry doesn’t end here. Dive deeper into the field with these valuable resources that will help you stay informed, connected, and prepared for your forestry career.

Professional Organizations

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is an excellent starting point for aspiring government foresters. With over 11,000 members, SAF offers networking opportunities, career resources, and access to the latest forestry research.

For those interested in urban forestry, the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) provides specialized knowledge and certifications.

If you’re drawn to wildlife management aspects of forestry, consider exploring The Wildlife Society, which bridges the gap between forestry and wildlife conservation.

Government Agencies

The U.S. Forest Service is the largest employer of foresters in the country and offers a wealth of information on forest management practices. Their careers page is a must-bookmark for job seekers.

The Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service also offer unique perspectives on public land management and preservation, with career information available on their respective websites.

Educational Resources

To enhance your forestry knowledge, explore the USDA’s Forestry Education Resources. These free materials cover a range of topics. For more in-depth, research-based information, check out wildland fire statistics from the same organization.

Publications and Journals

Stay current with the latest research by regularly reading the Journal of Forestry and Forest Science, both available through Oxford Academic. These peer-reviewed publications offer cutting-edge insights into forestry science and management practices.

Online Learning Platforms

Platforms like Coursera and edX offer forestry and environmental science courses from top universities. These can be excellent ways to broaden your knowledge or specialize in specific areas of forestry.

Networking and Forums

Engage with fellow professionals through online communities like the Forestry Forum. LinkedIn also hosts several forestry-focused groups where you can network and discuss industry trends.

The field of forestry is constantly evolving. Regular engagement with these resources will keep you at the forefront of industry trends, scientific advancements, and career opportunities.

By leveraging these resources, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue and advance your career in government forestry. Whether you’re researching the latest forest management techniques, looking for job openings, or connecting with fellow professionals, these tools will support your journey in becoming a skilled and informed government forester.

Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to professionals in the field or contact government agencies for more specific information about employment opportunities and careers trajectories. Your proactive approach to learning and networking can open doors to exciting possibilities in government forestry.

Embarking on a career in government forestry is a commitment to the stewardship of our nation’s natural resources. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the diverse roles, educational requirements, skills needed, and both the challenges and rewards that come with this career path. From the forests of the Pacific Northwest to the urban canopies of our biggest cities, government foresters play a crucial role in shaping the future of our environment.

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