Arborist I

Requisition ID: 4484
Affiliation: CUPE Municipal
Position Type: Temporary Full Time
Fixed Term Duration: Anticipated to end December 31, 2026
Number of Openings: 1
Bi-weekly Working Hours: 80 hours bi-weekly
Shift/Work Schedule: 4 x 10-hour shifts
Department/ Branch: Public Works, Parks
Job Location: Fort McMurray

Pay Level: PL8
Rate: $
COLA: Bi-Weekly - $480

Reposted (dd/mm/yyyy): 15/08/2026(original CUPE closing date: 09/08/2026 )
Closing Date (dd/mm/yyyy): 30/08/2026
Posting Type: Internal and External

We strive to make our hiring process accessible to all candidates. If you require accommodation for the interview or any other part of the application process, please let us know.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is looking for passionate, skilled and forward-thinking individuals to join our Public Works Department — a team that keeps our region running smoothly every day.

From road maintenance and fleet management to park enhancements and snow clearing, our Public Works team plays a critical role in daily life across the region. We’re seeking a hands-on professional who is committed to public service, enjoys meaningful work and excels in fast-paced environments.

If you take pride in seeing your work in action and want to contribute to a team that powers the municipality—this is your place.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Under general supervision, the Arborist I assists the Arborist II in performing and coordinating the maintenance necessary for the long-term care and management of the Municipality’s Urban Forestry Program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide technical knowledge of tree care practices such as pruning, tree planting, and removal, as well as functional support to Parks staff members.
• Assist Arborist II with cultural and management practices in the Urban Forestry Program.
• Assist with all arboricultural activities that may include, but are not limited to, climbing, bucking, chipping, pruning, hazard tree removals, assisting with rigging installation, cabling, tree planting, various mechanized tree-cutting tools, and monitoring/treatment of tree pests.
• Prepare and monitor the work site for safety precautions related to urban forest management. This includes placement of barricades, proper signage, and bucket truck set up.
• Use of general and special hand tools, power tools, and motorized vehicles such as, but not limited to, chainsaws, skid steers, chipper, stump grinder, trucks (including aerial bucket truck), and utility vehicles.
• Remove small to medium size trees while following necessary safety standards and policies.
• Write various reports and documents.
• Participate and complete the Municipality’s training program requirements as determined by Branch operations.
• Support Parks programs and Winter Operations as operationally required.
• Perform other related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to safely and efficiently operate all applicable types of equipment.
• Ability to understand and execute verbal and written instructions and read and interpret plans and technical specifications.
• Experience practicing appropriate health and safety precautions and procedures during all aspects of arborist work in accordance with ANSI Standards.
• Demonstrable knowledge of occupational hazards, signage, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and applicable safety precautions as per municipal and industry standards.
• High degree of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Must be able to listen attentively and communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Experience with various Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• General math and numeracy skills.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent (GED) is required.
• Two (2) years of parks or landscape related experience required including one (1) year of urban tree care operations or technical forestry related experience.
• Chainsaw certification is required.
• First Aid/CPR, Fuel and Lube, Flag Person, Skid Steer, and Forklift certifications are assets.
• ISA Certification is an asset.
• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is an asset.
• Technical arboriculture training or the willingness to obtain and to be tested and certified for competency in those disciplines, is required.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Submission of a Criminal Record Check.
• Competency testing may be required as part of the interview process.
• A valid Class five (5) Operator’s License is required as incumbent may be required to operate a personal or municipal vehicle for business use on a regular basis.
• A valid Class three (3) Operator’s License is an asset.
• Q-endorsement (Air Brakes) is required.

SAFETY:

As an employee of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, the incumbent is responsible for understanding and actively participating in the RMWB’s health and safety management system, and complying with all policies, practices, and procedures. All employees must take reasonable care to protect the health and safety of themselves and others, as well as immediately report any concerns, near misses, incidents, and hazardous conditions to their supervisor.