Forester

(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

 Compensation: $58,230 - $82,506 per year

The mission of the Environment and Planning Division is to protect, restore, expand and manage New York City’s natural spaces and green infrastructure. The division is responsible for citywide urban forestry, ecological and horticulture initiatives.

Responsibilities/Duties

  • Under general supervision, perform advanced professional forestry functions in the field and office; perform related work.
  • Enforce Parks Department standards for tree pruning removal, planting and replacement.
  • Assess work to be done by contractors; engage with directly and supervise employees involved in professional forestry activities.
  • Consult with engineers, developers, and contractors on a regular basis throughout projects.
  • Schedule, conduct and/or supervise inspections and field surveys to assess tree health, structure, pests, diseases and construction impacts.
  • Compile and manage forestry contracts, including tree maintenance, removal, planting, sidewalk repair, invasive species removal and natural area restoration.
  • Review schedules, reports and correspondence prepared by consultants, contractors, and other agencies. Perform field inspections to assess contract compliance and work outcomes.
  • Review permit applications to assess impacts to trees and landscapes, advise applicants and agencies on designs and methods, and / or issue permits
  • Manage forestry databases used to track, monitor, and produce reports on budgets, productivity, accomplishments and program status updates.
  • Respond to citizen inquiries and maintain working relationships with community boards, community groups and officials within and outside of the Agency.
  • Coordinate community-based greening efforts and lead tree stewardship workshops.

Qualifications/Requirements

  • A master’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a specialization in forestry or a related subject; or
  • A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, with a specialization in forestry or a related subject and one year of full-time professional experience in forestry or arboricultural work; or
  •  An associate degree from an accredited college or university, with a specialization in forestry or a related subject and three years of full-time professional experience in forestry or arboricultural work; or
  • A satisfactory combination of education and/or experience that is equivalent to "1", "2", or "3" above. However, all candidates must have at least an associate degree with a specialization in forestry or a related subject.
  • This position is exempt from NYC residency requirements.
  • License Requirement
  • A Motor Vehicle driver's license valid in the State of New York.


Preferred Skills/Qualifications *Preference will be given to applicants who filed and took the Forester Civil Service Examination (Exam No. 5075).

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience working with the public.
  • Ability to work independently.

Additional Information

How to Apply
Click here to apply: https://cityjobs.nyc.gov/job/forester-in-nyc-all-boros-jid-31128
or Go to cityjobs.nyc.gov and search for Job ID# 707115.

All applicants must apply via cityjobs.nyc.gov. The City is no longer using ESS to accept applications.
*Current City Employees please include your ERN and Job ID# 707115 on your cover letter and resume.
POST DATE: 03/14/2025 POST UNTIL: FILLED
NOTE: References will be required upon request. If you have any questions regarding this vacancy or require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call the Human Resources Division at (212) 830-7851.

Movement in the face of civil service lists is prohibited under civil service law. The city of new york is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy telecommunications device for the deaf: (212) 504-4115

For information about applying for Civil Service Exams go to: https://www.nyc.gov/site/dcas/employment/apply-for-a-city-job.page

Contact Information

NYC Parks Dept.
Website: Apply Online