Providence, Rhode Island, USA

This position will work in person and be based at the RIDEM office in Providence.

#PDN

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

The Urban Forestry Specialist will work at and with RI Department of Environmental Management’s (RIDEM) Division of Forest Environment assisting their Urban Forestry Program Manager in the planning, coordination, and implementation of their program of urban and community forestry assistance for towns and cities in Rhode Island. Urban Forestry Specialist responsibilities include: managing subgrants to communities and partners that provide planning and inventory support, coordination of volunteer efforts, tree planting programs, emergency management planning and the protection and enhancement of community tree resources; and to support programs delivered by the U&CF Program such as Tree City USA, arborist licensure; and other related work as required. May work in variable weather conditions. This position will work in person and be based at the RIDEM office in Providence. The salary range for this position is $58,000 - $63,000. This position is fully funded for two years, and may be extended further upon the securing of additional funding.

We seek applications from equity-minded candidates who will thrive in an environment that is committed to advancing the principles of social equity and inclusion, and equal access to resources and opportunities.

Are you looking for work you can believe in? At TNC we strive to embody a philosophy of Work that You Can Believe in where you can feel like you are making a difference every day.

The ideal candidate will be able to perform the following essential functions for RIDEM’s Division of Forest Environment:

• To assist in the planning, coordination, and implementation of a program of urban and community forestry assistance for towns and cities of Rhode Island.
• To assist in the delivery of subgrants awarded and administered by the Urban & Community Forestry Program.
• To assist with the delivery of program elements including the Tree City USA program outreach and support.
• To assist in urban tree inventory programs, workshops, tree care workshops statewide.
• To assist in the delivery of the RI Arborist Licensing Program including processing of license renewals and issuance of new licenses.
• To assist in the drafting of community forest resource plans, preparing reports, news releases and forestry brochures.
• To build positive working relationships with community leaders, volunteer agencies and groups, to coordinate efforts and build synergy in the development and execution of community forest initiatives.

• BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science-related field and 1-year related experience in urban forestry, arboriculture, community forest management and/or tree care or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge in and experience with the principles of forestry.
• Within six months of appointment the ability to obtain and maintain ISA Arborist Certification and RI Arborist License.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office tools.
• Must have a valid driver's license. Please indicate this in your resume.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with volunteers and partners.
• Experience managing volunteers.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to identify tree species.
• GIS proficiency.

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

The Rhode Island Chapter is comprised of 30 employees who are committed to teamwork, cross-collaboration, professional development, a fun and inclusive office culture, and centering diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice learning and practices. In addition to the minimum requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Passion, innovation, and diversity are all key components to advancing our mission and we encourage you to apply.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $58,000 - $63,000 for annual base salary. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.