Job Detail

Associate Director of Urban Forestry

Location: Morris Arboretum & Gardens, Phila., PA
Salary: $43,888. - $70,000.

Job Description Summary

Apply at: https://wd1.myworkdaysite.com/en-US/recruiting/upenn/careers-at-penn/details/Associate-Director-of-Urban-Forestry--Morris-Arboretum---Gardens_JR00100848

Morris Arboretum & Gardens is seeking an inspiring and mission-driven leader to head its Urban Forestry (UF) team, a group dedicated to strengthening the health and sustainability of urban forests across the greater Philadelphia region. This critical role centers on overseeing a team that provides impartial, research-backed arboriculture and urban forestry guidance—without engaging in tree care services. This unique approach ensures that all recommendations are objective, allowing the UF team to advise with the utmost integrity and focus on long-term ecological health.

The Head of Urban Forestry will play a transformative role in growing the region’s tree canopy and fostering urban resilience. By building and strengthening partnerships with local organizations, municipal leaders, and community stakeholders, the successful candidate will advocate for the benefits of urban forestry, such as cleaner air, increased biodiversity, and healthier, more vibrant communities. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a mission-focused team and make a lasting impact on Philadelphia’s green spaces, ensuring that the region’s urban forest flourishes for generations to come.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities

• Client and Stakeholder Management: Lead the Urban Forestry team’s client portfolio, primarily focusing on the University of Pennsylvania. Collaborate closely with UPenn Facilities and Real Estate Services (FRES) to manage and sustain the university’s tree collection across its expansive campus. Foster strong relationships with clients to ensure the delivery of high-quality, objective advice.
• Project Development and Coordination: Coordinate and oversee projects for external clients on various tree-related topics, including identification, assessment, mapping, and specification development. Actively pursue and bid on regional projects to expand the department’s influence and impact within the urban forestry community.
• Financial Management: Oversee and manage a $250,000 annual budget funded by FRES and external clients, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to support project goals, client needs, and departmental growth.
• Educational Outreach and Advocacy: Serve on the Tree Canopy Conference planning committee and contribute to educational programming within the School of Arboriculture. Develop and teach arboriculture courses to professional and amateur audiences, advancing awareness and best practices in urban forestry.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration and Reporting: Partner with the Chief Arborist to coordinate outreach and educational activities and report directly to the Director of Education. Act as a representative of the UF team’s mission to promote urban forestry in the UPenn community and the greater Philadelphia area.

Qualifications

• ISA Certification: ISA Certified Arborist is required, with the expectation to achieve ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) certification within 12 months of hire.
• Experience and Expertise: 1-2 years' experience required, 10 years in arboriculture, preferred, with at least 3 years, preferred, in a supervisory role. Prior experience in consulting is preferred. Comprehensive knowledge of current tree care methods, pest and disease management, and industry trends is essential.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in arboriculture, forestry, environmental science, or a related field or an equivalent combination of experience and education is required.
• Leadership and Management Skills: Strong ability to lead and manage a team, with proven experience handling multiple projects and clients effectively. Skilled in providing clear direction and fostering a positive team environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Skilled in drafting and interpreting tree-related ordinances. Proficiency in programs like CAD, GIS, and Microsoft Office Suite to support project coordination and data management.
• Communication and Outreach: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, committed to delivering outstanding customer service. Enthusiasm for educational outreach and community engagement is essential.
• Other duties as assigned.

Desired Skills:

• Construction-Related Arboriculture: Experience with tree preservation during construction projects.
• Ordinance Expertise: Knowledge in interpreting and drafting tree-related ordinances to ensure compliance and advocacy for tree protection.
• Expert Witness Experience: Experience serving as an expert witness in arboriculture, demonstrating authority and credibility in the field.
• Revenue Generation: A track record of meeting or surpassing revenue goals, showcasing an ability to grow services and partnerships strategically.
• Collaborative Spirit: Demonstrated ability to work effectively with professionals in landscape architecture, architecture, land planning, land management, and engineering to foster a cohesive approach to urban forestry initiatives.

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