Urban Forest Technician

Urban Forest Technician

Competition Number:         26/42

Posting Scope:                    Internal / External

Posted Date:                        February 19, 2026

Closing Date:                       March 5, 2026, 4:30 PM PST

Department:                         Parks & Recreation

Work schedule:                   Monday to Friday (40 hour work week) – Continuous (Full-Time)

Salary:                                  $41.51 per hour, Pay Grade 11

Job Code:                             780

Employee Group:                This is a CUPE Local 50  position

Number of Vacancies:         1

POSITION FUNCTION

Promote the value of the Urban Forest in our community, enforce the Tree Protection Bylaw and provide advice on tree management and conservation issues as they relate to the Urban Forest Master Plan.

KEY DUTIES

• Assist in the implementation and evaluation of the City’s Urban Forest Master Plan by conducting research, participating in community consultation meetings, and assisting in developing policies, action plans and strategies.
• Administer the Tree Protection Bylaw by responding to inquiries and investigating and submitting reports regarding any activity impacting trees on private property. Interpret and explain the Bylaw, make recommendations, and investigate infractions. 
• Gather, prepare, and submit documentation and evidence to begin prosecution for infractions of the Tree Protection Bylaw; prepare reports for Crown Counsel regarding illegal tree removals or tree damaging activities and attend court as required. 
• Review internal capital projects and make recommendations regarding tree protection.
• Coordinate with colleagues in Engineering, Planning and Parks to assist in providing recommendations for projects, including Parks assets and infrastructure.
• Review and approve tree permit, utility permit, and building permit applications. 
• Maintain records of all developments impacting trees, including updating tree inventory and carrying out site inspections to ensure compliance with the Tree Protection Bylaw and related regulations.
• Monitor and report on the Tree Replacement Program on private development sites. 
• Represent the Parks Division at various internal meetings; respond to enquiries from other departments, architects, engineers, developers, and the public, provide information on tree protection issues.
• Assist with the development of policies and procedures related to the Tree Protection Bylaw and permit system; review and provide input to the community and on development plans regarding tree protection matters. 
• Promote awareness of tree protection to municipal staff and the public by working with volunteers and community groups in stewardship activities related to urban forestry.
• Perform tree risk assessments and respond to storm damaged trees for assessment as required.
• Perform related duties where qualified.

INDEPENDENCE

Work is generated through complaints, building permits, utility permits, and tree permit applications.

Controversial conflicts with developers or homeowners and complex development proposals are referred to Supervisor.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Effort:

Normal.

Mental Effort:

Deal with conflicts and negative people. (occasional)

Deal with difficult situations and problems that are hard to resolve. (occasional)

Visual/Auditory Effort:

Focus on plans and drawings for short periods. (often)

Work Environment:

Office.

Work on construction sites. (occasional)

KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Organize and prioritize work.

Understand and apply the principles of arboriculture.

Expertise in tree and pest identification.

Intermediate level operation of a personal computer. 

Interpret related policies, bylaws, and regulations.

Interpret site plans, architectural drawings, and other development related documents.

Maintain accurate records using database software.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Deal effectively with the public and outside agencies.

Work safely on work sites.

QUALIFICATIONS

Formal Education, Training and Occupational Certification:

High school graduation.

Diploma or certificate in Arboriculture, Park Management or related discipline (1 year)

Bylaw Enforcement Level I Certificate. (40 hours)

Current and valid International Society of Arboriculture certification.

Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).

Current and valid Class 5 B.C. Driver’s Licence.

Experience:

2 years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

OTHER:

May be requested to substitute in a more senior position.

To apply for this opportunity, you will need to create an online profile or log back into our career portal at www.victoria.ca/jobs - only online submissions will be considered. All applications must be submitted online by 4:30 pm on the closing date noted on the posting. Please be prepared to provide proof of qualifications as outlined in your resume. 

The City of Victoria is committed to integrating equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility into our programs, policies, spaces, and services. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the community we serve and aim to become. Individuals who are Indigenous, racialized, immigrants, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+, or facing any additional barriers are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be available upon request throughout the application and selection process. 

If you require assistance, please email us at careers@victoria.ca.