Project Lead Arborist (TPS3)



Project Lead Arborist (TPS3)

Salary

$68,027.00 - $91,501.00 Annually

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

23DOT-NWR-11561

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

02/16/2023

Closing Date

3/26/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

Description


About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure that people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 

 

The Opportunity

WSDOT is eager to hire an environmental steward to serve as Project Lead Arborist. This position will provide expertise and services for environmental restoration, forest preservation, and restoration of construction impacts to meet environmental permit obligations, facility safety, and WSDOT policies. As the Project Lead Arborist, this position acts as the primary contact and technical expert to apply arborist services and agency standards, guidance, and procedures to integrate transportation facilities into the natural and build environment. The successful candidate appointed to this position will support WSDOT’s strategic plan through wise management of the roadside as an asset, delivering right-sized projects, supporting multimodal transportation options, improving environmental conditions, and meeting the expectations of the public for livable communities.  
 
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Project Lead Arborist will:

  • Write and review arborist reports using International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards and tree risk assessment qualifications (TRAQ). 
  • Respond to tree assessment request from internal and/or external partners using the Arborist Services Request Form. 
  • Ensure requests are tracked, assigned, and prioritized using an Excel tracking worksheet. 
  • Use landscape inspection tools and equipment to perform field inspections for tree assessments. 
  • Use Resistograph tool to assess tree decay during tree risk assessments. 
  • Provide field analysis and landscape architecture expertise based on contract plans, environmental permits, and WSDOT policy. 
  • Contribute to Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) plans for Area Maintenance and attend IVM meetings. 
  • Provide leadership, expertise, and guidance on best management practices for pesticide application to internal and external customers. 
  • Analyze adaptive management solutions and long-term management strategies for constructed sites

 

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

  • Bachelors degree in Landscape Architecture or closely aligned field and two (2) years of professional experience in Arborist Services
  • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Arborist Certification
  • Tree Risk Assessment Qualifications (TRAQ) certification
  • WSDA Pesticide Certification including four endorsements of Ornamental Insect and Disease, Rights of Way Weed, Aquatic, and Ornamental Weed or the ability to obtain within one year of hire. 
  • Ability to manipulate and transport up to 25lbs. 
  • Experience in forest preservation, adaptive management, and/or site management. 
  • Ability to traverse uneven ground and perform field investigative work outdoors and in inclement weather. 

 

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Site Erosion and Sediment Control certification
  • WSDA Pesticide Certification
  • Knowledge of Resistograph
  • Knowledge and familiarity with AutoCAD or Microsoft Office and Excel
  • Experience construction contract administration
  • Experience with native plant material and environmental restoration

 

Important Notes 

  • Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 357-16-197 mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Compliance with this mandate is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.   
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid work options
  • The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. 
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

 

Why WSDOT

  • Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options, and free dental coverage! Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
  • Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.  

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

 

How to Apply 

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
 

  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further details your qualifications, and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact information to be included in the “References” section of the online application for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, knowledge base, and job-related competencies.

 

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in, or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

 

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

 

Contact us: 

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Eric Saniatan, at SaniatE@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 23DOT-NWR-11561 in the subject line. 

 

Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.


More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the
Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.


Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.


As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 357-16-197 mandates that all WSDOT employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position. Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No
02
Do you have a current Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No
03
Do you have a Bachelors degree in Landscape Architecture or closely aligned field?
  • Yes
  • No
04
Please list the highest level of education and field of study you have completed, as well as any other academic and/or professional development course you have completed.
05
Please select the response that best describes how many years of professional experience you have n Arborist Services.
  • Less than 2 years of experience
  • 2 – 3 years of experience
  • 3 – 4 years of experience
  • 4 – 5 years of experience
  • More than 5 years of experience
  • No relevant experience
06
Please describe your years of professional experience in Arborist Services. If you do not have said experience, please type N/A.
07
Do you have a current International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Arborist Certification?
  • Yes
  • No
08
Do you have a current Tree Risk Assessment Qualifications (TRAQ) certification?
  • Yes
  • No
09
Do you have a current WSDA Pesticide Certification including four endorsements of Ornamental Insect and Disease, Rights of Way Weed, Aquatic, and Ornamental Weed or the ability to obtain within one year of hire?
  • Yes
  • No
10
This position requires the ability to manipulate up to 25lbs with or without reasonable accommodation. Are you able and willing to perform this essential job function?
  • Yes
  • No
11
This position requires the ability to climb in and out of equipment, work in all weather conditions including confined spaces, uneven terrain, and next to fast high volume highway traffic. Are you able and willing to perform this essential job function?
  • Yes
  • No
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
14
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for an employment visa? NOTE: For purposes of this question "sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit" means "an H-IB visa petition, an 0-1 visa petition, an E-3 visa petition, TN status and 'job flexibility benefits' (also known as 1-140 portability or Adjustment of Status portability) for long-delayed adjustment of status applications that have been pending for 180 days or longer." Please ask us if you are uncertain whether you may need immigration sponsorship or desire clarification.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact