Join us to shape the future of St. Catharines!

At the City of St. Catharines, we are committed to realizing the vision outlined in Strategic Plan. Our goal is to cultivate a city that thrives on safety, innovation, sustainability, and caring—not just for today, but for generations to come. Join our team and be part of a meaningful journey to shape the future of our community, leaving a lasting impact that extends far beyond the present.

Abou the Role:

Perform tree pruning and / or removal of diseased, dying or overgrown trees. Under the functional leadership of the Arborist II / Supervisor III - Forestry, may work within proximity to electrical apparatus.

What You'll be Doing:

• Prune or remove damaged, diseased, dying or overgrown trees according to current policies and procedures and generally accepted arboricultural practice(s).
• Ability to prune trees in an appropriate and aesthetically pleasing manner.
• Operate brush chippers with or without hydraulic winch lines.
• Operate dielectric and arborist tools to clear limbs and suckers from hydro wires, traffic signs, sidewalks and other structures and assets as required.
• Use ropes, saddles, climbing equipment and/or rigging to safely prune or remove trees.
• Operate aerial truck with hydraulic lifting device; inspect the site for access and positioning of the truck. Assist other departments and agencies as required.
• Perform tree surgery, by cabling, bracing, bark tracing and cavity filling, as required.
• Develop and implement a traffic protection plan in accordance with Ministry of Transportation of Ontario Traffic Manual, Book 7: Temporary Conditions.
• Ensure proper clean-up of job site.
• Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes and specifications.
• Ensure all equipment is properly maintained & safely operated, check on a daily basis and perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs.
• Provide functional leadership as required to accomplish the goals of the department.
• Operate equipment in a safe and efficient manner according to all relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
• Ensure trucks and equipment is safely and securely stored.
• Complete paperwork as required, i.e. statistic sheets, time sheets and accident reports.
• Provide excellent customer service; respond to needs of all customers and staff as required.
• Perform other similar and related duties as required.

What's Required:

• Graduation from a two year community college program in Arboriculture or Forestry and/or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Possess a valid Ontario Certificate of Qualification for the trade of Arborist, Utility Arborist would be an asset.
• Documented Chainsaw Operator's training required.
• Possess a valid half day Utility Work Protection Code Overview certificate.
• Valid - Standard First Aid / CPR C Certification as recognized through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
• Valid, unrestricted Class “DZ” driver’s licence held in good standing with proven capability in the operation of large GVW vehicles.
• Working knowledge and experience with the Occupational Health and Safety Act in particular as it relates to maintenance and construction activities (e.g. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), fall arrest).
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Ontario Traffic Manual with emphasis on Book 7 preferred. Ability to safely set up traffic control in work zones during roadway or utility construction and maintenance operations.
• Minimum of three years tree climbing experience, good knowledge of pruning and removal of trees and experience with the use of cranes for tree removal.
• Recent tree surgery experience required.
• Must be comfortable working at heights, able to climb/work in trees or from ladders, proficient in the use of aerial bucket trucks and Ability to meet the physical demands of the job as described in the physical demands analysis (PDA).
• Must successfully complete a City provided training course in Traffic Control – Temporary Work Zones.
• Must successfully complete a one day training course in Fall Arrest (IHSA or approved equivalent).
• Able to work outside in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, wet).
• Willing to work overtime for after hour emergencies as required.
• Willing to be trained on and operate snow removal equipment, when required.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and capable of working in a team environment, with the ability to also work independently.
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision, coordinate / plan work and function as part of a team.
• Exceptional customer service skills with a strong sense of public service and cooperation, and well developed abilities to deal with the public and citizens’ groups.
• Basic computer skills, experience with Microsoft Office Suite an asset.

Other Requirements:

Other Position Requirements include: Class DZ Driver’s Licence

Candidates selected for the position will be required to complete the Ministry of Labour’s Worker Health and Safety Awareness training and provide proof of the educational credentials listed on their resume and job application.

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