Tree Climber & Pruner
New York City Department of Environmental Protection
Full-time|On-site|Arkville The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) plays a vital role in enhancing the environment and safeguarding public health for all New Yorkers. With the responsibility of providing 1.1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water, managing wastewater and stormwater, and minimizing air, noise, and hazardous materials pollution, DEP is recognized as the largest combined municipal water and wastewater utility in the nation, employing nearly 6,000 dedicated professionals. The department's extensive water supply system features 19 reservoirs and 3 controlled lakes, encompassing a 2,000 square mile watershed that stretches 125 miles north and west of the City.The Bureau of Water Supply is actively seeking to appoint a skilled Climber & Pruner to join the West of Hudson Tree Task Force within the Drinking Water Operations Directorate, based in Arkville, New York. In this position, under the guidance of the Supervisor (Watershed Maintenance) II, the successful candidate will utilize advanced computerized, electronic, and mechanical equipment to perform essential operations, maintenance, repairs, and inspections of dams, aqueducts, facilities, vehicles, equipment, roads, bridges, lands, and related systems. This role specifically focuses on the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs, involving climbing, pruning, cutting, and felling activities along DEP’s roadways, property borders, aqueducts, boat launches, dams, and operational facilities. Key responsibilities include:- Operating manual and power-driven equipment, including vehicles and other motorized equipment essential for job functions.- Utilizing chainsaws, hooks, handsaws, shears, shredding, and chipping equipment.- Climbing, pruning, bracing, cutting, and felling trees and large shrubs.- Ensuring tools and equipment are clean, sharp, and well-lubricated, while inspecting trees for signs of disease or pests.- Removing dead and excess branches from trees and clearing brush.- Engaging in general forestry tasks.- Maintaining cleanliness in marginal areas surrounding reservoirs and facilities throughout the Watershed.License Requirements:- Candidates must possess a valid Motor Vehicle Driver License in the State of New York, which must be maintained throughout employment.- Within one year of appointment, the employee must acquire a Class B Commercial Driver License, with Air Brake Endorsement, valid in New York State.- Within one year of appointment, the employee must obtain NYSDEC Pesticide Applicator Certification, which must be maintained for the duration of employment.
Mar 3, 2026