Forester - job 1 of 2

As a Forester for the City of New York, your main responsibilities will include advanced forestry work both in the office and in the field, enforcing tree care standards, supervising contractors, conducting health assessments of trees, managing contracts related to forestry, and engaging with community groups. The role emphasizes maintaining the health and beauty of urban landscapes through sustainable practices.

To qualify for the Forester position with the City of New York, candidates must have a minimum of an associate degree in forestry or a related field and relevant professional experience in forestry or arboricultural work. A bachelor’s or master’s degree paired with additional experience is highly regarded. Furthermore, a valid New York State Motor Vehicle Driver License is mandatory.

The Forester's role significantly contributes to community engagement by coordinating greening initiatives and tree stewardship workshops. By actively involving community boards and local groups, the Forester fosters a culture of environmental awareness and community participation, ensuring the sustainable stewardship of New York City’s green resources.

Key technical skills for a Forester include the ability to assess tree health, knowledge of urban forestry practices, and proficiency in managing forestry databases. Familiarity with environmental regulations, project management, and effective communication with various stakeholders such as engineers and community members is also crucial for success in this position.

To apply for the Forester position, candidates should visit cityjobs.nyc.gov and use Job ID# 707115 to submit their applications. It's essential to include your ERN and the Job ID# on your cover letter and resume if you're a current city employee. Be prepared to provide references upon request as part of the application process.

When answering this question, share a personal story that highlights your passion for forestry and the environment. Discuss specific experiences that led you to pursue this career and how your personal values align with the mission of the City of New York's environmental initiatives.

Discuss your hands-on experience with assessing tree health, including techniques you've used for monitoring pests and diseases. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed tree health in previous roles, emphasizing teamwork and effective communication with stakeholders.

Reflect on methods you've used in past positions to enforce compliance with standards, such as conducting inspections and maintaining accurate records of tree maintenance. Emphasize your attention to detail and your ability to stay updated on regulations relevant to urban forestry.

Articulate how you've successfully engaged communities through workshops, volunteer events, or educational programs related to tree stewardship. Highlight the importance of creating partnerships with local organizations and fostering community pride in green spaces.

Outline a specific project that you found challenging, describing the obstacles faced and how you overcame them. This could involve complex tree assessments or community interactions. Focus on your problem-solving skills and your collaborative approach.

Demonstrate your conflict resolution skills by explaining how you would address the situation. Discuss the importance of clear communication, documenting issues, and finding constructive solutions that align with the Parks Department’s standards.

Share your experience in managing databases related to forestry, highlighting any specific software or tools you've utilized. Explain how you've used these databases to track tree health and project outcomes, emphasizing their significance in decision-making.

Explain your approach to prioritization, such as using project management tools, setting clear deadlines, and collaborating with team members. Discuss how effective communication and project documentation help keep everything on track.

Articulate your philosophy about sustainability and how it influences your decision-making in urban forestry. Highlight specific practices you've implemented that align with sustainable forestry principles and how they benefit the environment and the community.

Convey your enthusiasm for contributing to one of the largest urban forestry initiatives in the country. Discuss how the values and mission of the City of New York resonate with your personal and professional goals, and how you envision making a positive impact.