Parks & Forestry Assistant - Intern

 This LTE position will work full-time hours during the summer months.  

This posting will remain open until filled.

Under the general direction of the Urban Forester & Naturalist, you will assist in tasks such as maintaining the City of Fitchburg Urban Forestry webpage, updating the City of Fitchburg tree inventory using ESRI Tree Management software, and coordinating both short and long-term volunteer projects.  This position provides a college student interested in urban forestry, natural resource management, and local government the opportunity to gain valuable work experience during the summer months by firsthand observation of the operation and organization of a local government parks department.

 The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Responsibilities:

Essential Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Prepare ARCGis maps for tree planting plans and natural resource management projects.
• Update and maintain the City of Fitchburg tree inventory.
• Provide field supervision of tree planting, prairie restoration, and other natural resource management activities.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with other city departments.
• Assist with the application for Tree City USA.
• Assist with public relations, public meetings, and special events.
• Assist with volunteer coordination and management.
• Assist with grant writing and administration.
• Update and manage department web page.  
• Participate in Tree Advisory and Park Commission meetings as necessary.
• Perform other such duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Supervisory Requirements:

• None

 Education and/or Experience Requirements:      

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Post-secondary coursework in forestry, natural resources, environmental science, GIS, or related fields desired.
• Experience with ARCGis/ArcView/ARC-Online/ESRI Tree Management software desired.
• Experience in volunteer coordination and management desired.

 Licenses, Certifications, etc.

• Must possess a valid driver's license for the duration of appointment.

Special Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
 

• Knowledge in urban forestry, natural resource management, and environmental science.
• Knowledge and experience with GIS and other mapping software.  
• Interest in municipal government.
• Ability to carry out assigned tasks with minimal supervision.  
• Ability to work efficiently and safely.   
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with others.  
• Ability to research and write effectively.
• Ability to maintain adequate attendance. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City elected and appointed officials, employees, and the general public.
• Ability to work with culturally diverse individuals and groups.
• Ability to attend meetings and other functions during the evening and/or on weekends.

In evaluating candidates for this position, the City may consider a combination of education, training, and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential duties of this position.
Your unique experiences matter to us, even if they don’t align perfectly with every requirement listed. We recognize that skills come from diverse paths, and we value what makes your journey special. If this role inspires you, we encourage you to apply!

Physical Demands:  Light Work:  Exerting 51-75 lbs seldom.  Exerting 0-50 lbs occasionally.  Frequently standing, walking and sitting.  

Work Environment: Inside work is 45% of the time. Outside work (no effective protection from weather) is 55% of the time.  Exposure to hazards or risk of bodily injury, moderate noise and dust are seldom.  Exposure to heat/cold extremes and temperature changes occasionally.