District Forester

The district forester supervises the planning and operation of forestry services programs for a regional area of the company; essential in providing safe and reliable electric service while maintaining customer relations; provides vegetation management services to all pertinent departments in both delivery services and supply/marketing. Develops and evaluates new methods for line clearance and vegetation management in compliance with regulations and standards.

Plans, directs, inspects, audits, and oversees the operations of contract line clearance tree crews for the region; provides overall direction, coordination and evaluation of the operating unit; analyzes and verifies reports. (25-35%)

Performs supervisory activities, including employee safety, selection and development of employees, employee counseling and motivation and salary administration. Assist in the administration of the department budget and reporting the work performed within the department. (25-35%)

Responds to customer inquiries concerning the line clearance program and provides services in accordance with company guidelines. Researches and resolves customer complaints in a fair and equitable manner in accordance with company guidelines. (20-35%)

Develops, organizes and conducts seminars, and disseminates informational material about forestry services programs and general tree care issues to employees, public officials and the general public on a regional basis. (10-20%)

Provides technical and customer relations training for contractor and company personnel. (5%)

Identifies opportunities for enhancements of field procedures within current systems in order to gain efficiencies. Works with delivery operations, engineering and contractor personnel to enhance system safety and reliability. (5%)

Retains membership and actively participates in local tree-related organizations. (5%) Provides technical input to assist in development of project planning. (5%)

Performs additional responsibilities as requested or assigned.

Demonstration of knowledge and understanding of human performance improvement techniques.

Evaluate present practices and implement processes, concepts, training and tools to prevent, detect and correct human errors that may adversely impact the safe, reliable operation of the electric transmission and distribution system.

Bachelor's degree in forestry or related field; or equivalent related work experience. (Typically six years of related, progressive work experience would be needed for candidates applying for this position who do not possess a bachelor's degree).

Five years' experience in the line clearance industry, including one year in a senior technical leadership role.

Must be able to obtain international society of arboriculture certification within one year.

Leadership skills to oversee a large regional operation. Customer focus to understand and meet the needs of internal and external customers.

Effective oral and written communication skills to listen effectively, transmit information accurately and understandably and to actively seek feedback.

Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently and meet deadlines.

Ability to establish and monitor adherence to standards. Effective analytical and problem-solving skills to recognize patterns in data, information or events to draw logical conclusions and to make recommendations for action.

Knowledge of electric distribution and transmission systems, line clearance practices and procedures, and arboriculture.

Maintain valid driver's license and a safe driving record.

Proficiency in PC workstations, CSS, EOMS and related software programs.

Proficiency with other standard office equipment.