General Statement of Duties
Under the direct supervision of the Parks and Recreation Director, the Urban Ecologist is responsible for overseeing tree preservation and develop policies and procedures related to priority setting for tree related hazard mitigation. The incumbent will help to coordinate functions related to various aspects of nature, including conducting educational tours, workshops, nature festivals, coordinating speakers, and general oversite of the City parks native habitat. General and specific assignments are received and are usually under little direct supervision allowing latitude for use of independent judgement.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Organize, promote, and conduct programs to expand community awareness of various aspects of nature and the Pharr Nature and Birding Center and Community Garden;
- Conduct nature tours, workshops, and special events for the purpose of raising awareness of environmental stewardship;
- Oversee development and preservation of native habitat, and initiate/manage restoration projects, that include planting, weed control, and additional efforts as needed;
- Develop partnerships with local schools, colleges and universities, and social/business organizations to promote the use of the Pharr Nature and Birding Center for environmental awareness;
- Manage tree planting, preservation, pruning, and removal of vegetation throughout City property;
- Assist during emergency response related to tree debris and tree hazard mitigation;
- Act as a technical advisor to City departments (Development Services, Engineering) during permit processes and plan review prior to and during construction projects throughout the City.
- Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the working environment and with those contacted in the course of work.
- Must be enthusiastic about teaching individuals and groups the importance of protecting the environment.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Work Environment
Incumbent will work indoors and outdoors, sometimes in extreme weather conditions.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Must have the use of sensory skills in order to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public through the use of the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. Significant standing, walking, moving, climbing, carrying, bending, kneeling, reaching, crawling, and handling, sitting, standing, pushing, and pulling. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time, non-exempt position, with a 40-hour work week. Incumbent must have the ability to work flexible hours including holidays, evenings, and weekends, if needed. Participation in City sponsored special events, trainings, or meetings may be required.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
Requires a bachelor’s degree from a 4-year accredited college or university with a major in Urban Ecology, Biology, Landscape Architecture/Urban Planning, or a related field.
A minimum of one (1) year of work experience in the field of nature. Requires working knowledge/experience in Urban or Municipal Forestry and a passion for Valley Ecology (i.e. birds, butterflies, other insects, and native plants).
Requires the incumbent to hold current valid class “C” driver’s license from the Texas Department of Public Safety with a satisfactory driving record.
AAP/EEO Statement
The City of Pharr is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendment Act (ADAAA) the City of Pharr will provide reasonable accommodations, upon reasonable request, to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
The city focuses on identifying candidates who are customer oriented and committed to public service to create a culture that is committed to diversity.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.