Tree Worker/Climber (12544, Grade HL6)

Tree Climber Trees are an essential part of Montgomery Parks' landscapes, natural areas, and public spaces, and our team plays a vital role in keeping them healthy, safe, and thriving. Montgomery Parks is seeking a Tree Climber to join the Horticulture, Forestry and Environmental Education Division in Gaithersburg, Maryland. As a member of our tree crew, you'll perform tree maintenance and care throughout Montgomery Parks while helping preserve and enhance one of our most valuable natural resources. Working alongside experienced arborists and tree care professionals, you'll gain hands-on experience in tree climbing, aerial operations, pruning, removals, rigging, and other specialized tree care practices. Through training, professional development, and field experience, you'll have opportunities to expand your skills and build a rewarding career in urban forestry while making a lasting impact on Montgomery Parks' trails, natural areas, and green spaces. The Urban Forestry Section cares for trees throughout Montgomery Parks and supports the safety, health, and long-term stewardship of the park system's tree resources. Tree crew members work together in field-based operations that include climbing, pruning, removals, hazard response, and specialized tree-care practices. Montgomery Parks is an award-winning park system and part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). Supported by more than 1,000 dedicated employees, we care for 416 parks, including trails, and natural spaces across Montgomery County, with team members working in a wide range of roles including park operations, public programs, park planning, public safety, and administration. Our work is visible in everyday moments, from safe, well-maintained trails to welcoming parks and community programs. Careers with Montgomery Parks offer purpose, stability, and the opportunity to make a visible, lasting impact where people live, work, and connect. Examples Of Important DutiesTree Climbing, Aerial Operations, and Rigging Safely climbs trees using saddles, ropes, climbing hooks, safety lanyards, and other approved equipment and performs work from aerial lift equipment, as assigned. Uses ropes, pulleys, rigging systems, and lowering devices to remove or lower trees, limbs, and tree sections safely. Coordinates closely with ground crew members to maintain clear communication and safe operations during climbing, lowering, and removal work. Tree Pruning, Removal, and Hazard Response Operates chainsaws and hand tools to fell, prune, trim, and remove hazardous, diseased, damaged, dead, or unwanted trees and brush. Assists with inspections to identify hazardous trees, structural concerns, and tree-health issues and applies corrective action within established guidelines. Clears fallen trees and debris from roads, trails, creeks, bike paths, buildings, and other park areas and may respond to storm damage and tree-related emergencies. Equipment, Vehicle, and Work-Site Safety Inspects, operates, and maintains chainsaws, chippers, climbing and rigging systems, hand tools, radios, vehicles, trailers, and other tree-care equipment. Completes preventive maintenance and minor repairs, secures and accounts for equipment, and promptly reports mechanical concerns. Establishes safe work zones, uses required personal protective equipment, and follows applicable safety standards and procedures. Crew Support and Work Documentation Works with equipment operators, park maintenance employees, and other crew members to complete work-site setup, debris removal, cleanup, and restoration. Maintains accurate TreeKeeper records and completes required reports, forms, and related documentation. Contributes to a cooperative, safety-focused work environment and performs related park maintenance duties as assigned.