Job Description

Description of Work

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Description of Work

This position is responsible for overseeing the City's urban forestry, horticultural, and natural resource management programs, including the tree-planting program, tree inventory assessment, tree management plan, and the implementation of the volunteer plan and program. This position will assist the Superintendent of Parks and Public Spaces in maintaining and enhancing Norwalk's urban canopy, public landscapes, and natural ecosystems, including parks, open spaces, and public rights-of-way. The role supports sustainable land stewardship through planning, program coordination, and collaboration with City staff, community partners, and local organizations.

Distinguishing Characteristics of the Class

This class requires advanced professional knowledge of urban forestry, arboriculture, and horticultural best practices, including site planning, vegetation management, and ecological landscaping. The work involves strategic planning and administration of citywide land management programs, including tree planting, habitat restoration, and invasive species control. Strong ecological knowledge, leadership ability, and a commitment to community and environmental resilience are essential. Strong leadership and technical expertise are essential.

General Duties

Leads the development and implementation of the City's Tree Master Plan and urban forestry goals. Conducts field inspections to assess, but not limited to, tree health, risks, maintenance needs, landscape projects, and soil conditions; recommends corrective actions. Develops, manages, and implements long-term vegetation management plans for public parks and green spaces, with recommendations for organic land management strategies and appropriate pesticide use consistent with Integrated Pest Management practices and the City's Pesticide Ordinance. Establishes and oversees annual planting programs for trees, shrubs, and annuals/perennials throughout City properties, and manages landscape restoration projects and planting designs for parks and public spaces. Prepares public outreach materials and coordinates with community groups, agencies, and the public to advocate tree protection and urban forest resilience. Supervises, trains, and evaluates assigned staff and volunteers to work in open spaces and natural areas, and the planting and watering of trees and shrubs. Establishes goals and priorities to develop and be responsible for new vegetation management projects from the planning stages through implementation Plans a comprehensive vegetation management strategy for parks and open spaces maintenance crews. Maintains and utilizes GIS-based tree inventory and data management systems; utilizes data-driven approaches to strategically restore tree canopy and maintain public trees. Collaborate with City departments and participate in interdepartmental initiatives on sustainability, land management, and natural resource stewardship while advancing community education and engagement with sustainable land.

Additional Duties

Facilitates monthly Interdepartmental Pest Management Team meetings. As per the Chief of Operations and Public Works, can be assigned to staff the Urban Forestry Commission or other related committee or commission related to Forestry as needed. Assists in the preparation of operating and capital budgets related to tree, landscape, and horticulture operations. Coordinates with contractors and consultants on various projects, monitors expenditures, and ensures program activities remain within allocated funding.

Supervised By:

Receives general supervision from the Superintendent of Public Property and Parks and the Recreation and Parks Director.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

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Advanced knowledge of arboriculture, horticulture, landscape restoration, and urban ecology. Strong understanding of sustainable land care, tree risk assessment, and pest/disease diagnostics. Experience with public administration of tree and landscape programs. Skilled in planning, supervision, and training of staff and volunteers. Ability to analyze field data and develop long-term maintenance strategies. Proficiency in GIS and digital inventory tools for tree and asset management. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage the public, elected officials, and community groups. Physical ability to perform outdoor site inspections and tree assessments. Ability to prepare technical reports, budgets, and presentations for various stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

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Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Forestry, Horticulture, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field, and five (5) years of experience in urban forestry, arboriculture, or horticulture; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience as described above.

Special Licenses/Certifications AND/OR Supplemental Information

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Must be a licensed Connecticut Arborist and Certified Pesticide Supervisor (or obtain both within 3 months of hire). ISA Certified Arborist and certified Horticulturist is preferred. Familiarity with GIS-based tree inventory and management systems preferred. Valid driver's license required


Note: The above is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all-inclusive of every task or responsibility.



NASA, Grade 06

The City of Norwalk is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employeer