Temp - Urban Forestry Field Tech.

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been consistently ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

The Urban Forestry Field Technician provides field and technical support for the Morris Arboretum & Gardens Urban Forestry Consulting program. This position assists with tree inventories, tree risk assessment projects, GIS-based data collection, construction-related tree preservation activities, and other urban forestry consulting services. The role supports project delivery through accurate field data collection, documentation, and coordination with consulting staff.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities:
• Conduct tree inventories and collect tree condition data.
• Assist with Level I and Level II tree risk assessment projects.
• Perform GIS and Fulcrum-based field data collection and management.
• Document site conditions through photographs and field notes.
• Monitor and document construction-related tree protection measures.
• Support campus arboretum and institutional tree management projects.
• Assist with field verification and data collection for consulting reports and proposals.
• Maintain field equipment and ensure data quality and accuracy.

Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of tree identification, tree biology, and urban forestry practices.
• Experience with GIS, mobile data collection platforms, or related field technologies preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions.
• Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites.
• ISA Certified Arborist credential preferred or ability to obtain certification.

About Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants and people through education, research, and horticultural displays. Located in the Northwest section of Philadelphia, the Arboretum is home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and serves as a destination for plant enthusiasts and a hub for botany, horticulture, and urban forestry.

For more information, visit: https://www.morrisarboretum.org

About the Division of Business Services

The Business Services Division (BSD) supports the individual and collective needs of the Penn community by promoting a hospitable, customer-friendly campus environment and providing mission-critical services and essential operations. BSD is dedicated to delivering high-quality service in a fiscally responsible manner.

Currently, the Division focuses on three major initiatives:

Revenue growth and retention through improved marketing efforts, extended services, and new distribution channels
Driving productivity through the effective use of technology
Enhancing service offerings through upgrades and expansions of facilities

For more information about the Division of Business Services, visit: https://www.business-services.upenn.edu

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Morris Arboretum

Pay Range

$7.25 - $30.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job’s level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements
A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family’s health and welfare.
Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn’s Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.