JOB TITLE: VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

LOCATION: PRESQUE ISLE OPERATIONS CENTER

REPORTS TO: SUPERVISOR, VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

POSITION STATUS: EXEMPT, NON-BARGAINING UNIT

Be a part of the team that is transforming the power industry of northern and eastern Maine.

Versant Power is building on our 100-year history of delivering efficient, safe and reliable electricity service to customers in northern and eastern Maine. We never lose sight of safety, quality, integrity and innovation.

We are committed to our dedicated people, who inspire us every day to deliver something more powerful than power alone.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Under the direction of the Supervisor, Vegetation Management, this position will serve as a utility forester or professional arborist for the vegetation management program in the Northern Operation Region. This position is responsible for technical guidance, field oversight, biological decisions, and administration for the execution of the vegetation program. This role includes danger tree selection, transmission program direction, quality control, crew coordination, work planning, safety compliance assurance, customer communication, productivity assessments, cost management, and record-keeping.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Conduct the danger and hazard tree selection program for the company.
• Serve as a professional arborist for company.
• Lead the further development, refinement and effectiveness of the danger tree program.
• Assure the quality and effectiveness of the herbicide program, as well as the environmental and social safety of that program.
• Oversee the work of all tree crews on a regular basis. Assure performance in the areas of quality control, adherence to arboreal standards, productivity, professionalism, and cost. Also oversee adherence to safety and work standards and assure proper use of equipment and tools.
• Review service order requests, and coordinate customer communication.
• Assure compliance with the Versant Contractor Safety Program.
• Responsible for program quality assurance of both distribution and transmission programs.
• Keep updated on industry innovations, new technology and new practices. Manage trials of new approaches within the Versant Power program.
• Assure compliance with the Versant Environmental Management System, and promptly report on any non-compliance incidents.
• Compile and maintain various records and files related to the program. Assist in the preparation of statistical reports, and data analysis.
• Assist in the alignment and accuracy of invoicing with field production.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Other related duties as assigned, including designated duties associated with System Emergencies.

REQUIRED OR PREFERRED EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Bachelor's Degree in Forestry or other biological sciences preferred
• Currently hold, or within 9 months of employment, begin the path to secure ISA Certified Arborist, ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist, and ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualifications.
• Minimum of five years of experience in arborist field, vegetation management, tree services, utility services, or forestry preferred
• Strong communication, collaboration, interpersonal and influence skills.
• Strong skills in the areas of computers and technology, including map reading and understanding of Geographic Information Systems required.
• Current valid driver’s license is required.
• Hold, or be able to obtain within 9 months, a Master Certified Pesticide Applicator License in the State of Maine.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Position requires driving, sitting, standing, walking, climbing, and bending. Ability to walk and climb in areas of very rough and difficult terrain.
• Position requires extended periods of time in severe weather conditions during normal operations and especially during storm conditions. The position also requires exposure to extremes of cold, heat, and humidity.
• Position requires technical aptitude and extensive computer skills.
• Position requires ability to work closely with crew members, and with the public sometimes under stressful conditions.

WORK HOURS:

Usual work time is Monday through Friday, working between 40-50 hours is experienced. Off-hour monitoring is also anticipated. Some weekend work is required.

Versant Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.