Arboriculture Development Technician - City of Vancouver, Vancouver

About this opportunity

The City of Vancouver is seeking a dedicated Arboriculture Development Technician to perform specialized technical work of an arboricultural nature. In this role, you will be responsible for reviewing proposed development and building plans, along with arborist reports, for Development and Building permit enquiries and applications. This position involves collaborating with various departments on site coordination and providing essential guidance to the public and applicants, ensuring projects align with the Protection of Trees Bylaw and the Urban Forest Strategy. Considerable independent judgement is exercised in the technical aspects of the work, contributing directly to the city's environmental sustainability goals.

Key duties

• Performs development related work including enquiry, screening and processing tree permit applications and works collaboratively with Project Coordinators during the review of Development and Building permit enquiry and applications. Reviews are performed to ensure projects meet provisions of the Protection of Trees Bylaw and address goals of the Urban Forest Strategy.
• Reviews plans of existing trees and proposed replacement trees at the time of enquiry of development and building permit application, including specifications for tree planting, tree retention and tree protection prior to construction.
• Discusses non-compliance items with applicants and authorizes minor changes to approved plans.
• Performs collaborative inter-departmental problem solving with Park Board and Engineering to ensure coordinated site plans regarding tree retention and protection, utility placement and site access.
• Liaises with and provides general Arboricultural advice to customers and internal contacts.
• Interprets and explains applicable by-laws and regulations to the public and applicants.
• Performs research tasks as required.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Skills and experience

To succeed in this Arboriculture Development Technician role, candidates should possess a strong foundation in arboriculture and related fields, coupled with practical experience and a comprehensive understanding of urban forestry principles and regulatory frameworks. The ability to interpret complex plans and effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders is crucial.

• Diploma in Landscape Horticulture, Forestry, Arboriculture or a related field from an accredited post-secondary institution along with some related experience in arboriculture-related work, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Considerable knowledge of tree biology, insects and diseases, and arboricultural practices and construction methods.
• Considerable knowledge of Protection of Trees Bylaw and regulations and of the departmental rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing the work; knowledge of Urban Forest Strategy and arboriculture practices and principles.
• Working knowledge of current development practices and arboriculture principles.
• Ability to read and interpret landscape plans and specifications; to advise appropriateness of plans and suggest plan modifications for improvement.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external contacts.
• Ability to interpret and explain applicable by-laws, regulations and related requirements to same; ability to perform a variety of inspectional, investigational and evidentiary duties related to the work.
• Ability to perform various research tasks and to prepare, establish and maintain a variety of records, files, correspondence and reports related to the work.
• ISA Certified Arborist with Tree Risk Assessment Qualification is preferred.
• Ability to meet transportation requirements.

About the employer

The City of Vancouver is consistently recognized as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities, and is proud to be among BC’s Top Employers and Canada’s Greenest Employers. Joining the City of Vancouver means becoming part of a dedicated team committed to exceptional public service, sustainability, equity, and an outstanding quality of life for all residents. With a strong commitment to being a City of Reconciliation, the City offers meaningful careers and jobs in Vancouver where you play a key role in ensuring equitable access to services, upholding ethical governance, and supporting citizens with integrity. Explore City of Vancouver jobs and City of Vancouver careers to contribute to a vibrant community.