The Facilities Operations Landscape Department at the University of Connecticut seeks a University Arborist whose duties will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Performs technical duties in tree maintenance such as pruning, structural support, transplanting, planting, preventing or diagnosing diseases and pests, and tree removal.

• Conducts assessments for risks to tree health such as disease, defects and decay, and storm damage.

• Operates various power and motorized equipment including but not limited to chain saws, pull saws, brush chippers, stump grinders, tractors, aerial trucks, snow plows, and snow throwers.

• Climbs trees for purpose of pruning, removal, and diagnosis.

• Conducts tree assessments and inspections.

• Applies pesticides, fertilizers, fungicides, growth inhibitors, etc. to trees and shrubs in various forms and methods.

• Keeps and maintains records of inspections, activities, and treatments.

• Sets up traffic control devices, and directs traffic as needed.

• Supervises other staff as applicable.

• Performs installation and removal of flags, banners, signs, etc. requiring lifts or aerial trucks.

• May also perform general landscape maintenance including but not limited to care of planting beds, lawn areas, litter control, and event support.

• Snow removal duties as assigned.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Three years of experience as a licensed Arborist; considerable knowledge of the cultivation and care of woody plants, particularly trees and shrubs used for decorative, shade, and ornamental purposes; considerable knowledge of the tree growth process as it relates to plant requirements, climate, soil conditions and other external influences; considerable knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, insects and diseases which affect woody plants; considerable knowledge of chemicals or fertilizers, growth regulators, antibiotics, insecticides, fungicides and other chemical compounds applied to plants; interpersonal skills; oral and written communication skills; mechanical ability; ability to utilize computer software.

Applicant must possess sufficient strength, stamina and ability to perform assigned duties. Must possess and retain a valid motor vehicle operator license.

Incumbents in this class must possess and retain a State of Connecticut Arborist license, and must possess and retain a State of Connecticut Commercial Supervisory Certification for pesticide application. Incumbents in this class may be required to travel and may be required by the appointing authority to possess and retain appropriate current licenses, permits and/or certifications.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working on a college or university campus; 3 to 5 years of experience as a licensed arborist; general horticultural knowledge of annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees; some knowledge of sustainable practices, methods and features including rain gardens, bio swales, green roof, etc.; possession of a commercial driver's license.

Working Conditions

Incumbents in this class may be required to lift moderate to heavy weights; may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, significant levels of dust and noise and heights and risk of injury from equipment.

Incumbents in this class may be required to wear personal protective equipment.

Appointment Terms

This is a permanent, full-time position and includes a benefits package. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with an hourly salary of $25.71. This position is categorized as Emergency Support Services/Essential Staff. Employees are mandated to work during emergency closures/delayed openings due to inclement weather or for significant events that effect campus operations. Employees must report to work for winter storms to perform snow and ice removal duties. Employment of the successful candidate will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment physical and criminal background check.

To Apply

Qualified applicants please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three (3) professional references via UConn Jobs at www.jobs.uconn.edu. Please identify in your cover letter Search # 2016285 and ensure that your application materials demonstrate how you meet the stated minimum qualifications and any of the preferred you may have. Application deadline is January 26, 2016.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University's teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn's ranking as one of the nation's top research universities. UConn's faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.