Job Details

Urban Forestry Crew Leader

Rooted in knowledge, rising with integrity. Guide the crews who work for our City's canopy. The Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Urban Forestry, Horticulture Services Branch, is looking for someone to lead the oversight of the beautification and maintenance of City-owned property along City roadways, sidewalks, and public spaces by coordinating crews and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in a timely manner. This position coordinates operations through subordinate supervisors, supports contract and budget administration, and ensures work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with professional standards. You will also supervise staff by preparing performance evaluations and, when necessary, conducting investigations related to disciplinary actions. If you bring strong judgment, organizational skills, and urban forestry expertise, this is your opportunity to help shape and protect Honolulu's urban forest.

What You Will Do:

• Plan, assign, and coordinate arboriculture crews island-wide; supervise multiple crews and projects to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Supervise work through subordinate supervisors and ensure efficient use of staff and equipment
• Monitor contracts and inspect contractor and developer work for quality and compliance
• Investigate incidents, accidents, and public complaints; prepare reports and recommendations
• Assist with budgeting, procurement, and resource planning
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, licensing, and certification requirements, and the proper use of equipment
• Coordinate with City departments, contractors, agencies, and community organizations on projects and improvements

Position-Specific Information:

• There is one (1) vacancy with the Nursery and Landscape Section located at the Kapiolani Nursery. This position will:
• Plan and coordinate nursery and grounds maintenance programs for parks, streetscapes, and public spaces, including high-visibility areas such as Kuhio Beach and Queen Kapiolani Garden
• Develop and improve landscape maintenance practices, with emphasis on irrigation systems
• Conduct and oversee experimental programs to evaluate new and adaptable plant species
• Research and evaluate fertilizers, insecticides, and other treatments to support plant health and landscape sustainability
• There is one (1) vacancy with the Arboriculture Section located at 3902 Paki Ave. This position will:
• Determine appropriate methods and specialized equipment (e.g., cranes, chippers, stump removers) for tree maintenance operations
• Monitor tree maintenance contractors; inspect work quality and issue corrective actions as needed
• Assess tree health, structural conditions, and risk factors, including disease, infestation, and storm damage
• Respond to hazardous tree emergencies, including off-hour situations

Special Working Conditions:

• • Handle and apply chemicals, including working in areas treated with chemicals
  • Work independently in remote or mountainous locations without access to drinking water, restrooms, or electricity.
  • Work evenings or weekends for pesticide/herbicide application, specialist projects, events, or emergency response
  • Serves as a Disaster Response Worker during declared emergencies
• • Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • This position is required to:
  • Respond to emergency work in inclement or extreme weather
  • Work under or near fallen trees
  • Work near roadways in low-visibility conditions
  • Work around live electrical lines damaged by fallen trees
  • Work in off-road conditions
  • Work after hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Serve as a Disaster Response Worker during declared emergencies.

Enjoy excellent employment benefits including generous time off (up to 21 vacation days, 21 sick leave days, and holidays), comprehensive health coverage, retirement plan, career development, and much more! View details about all our available benefits by clicking on the "Benefits" tab at the top of this posting or visiting