Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation Tree Care Specialist Oakland, CA · Full time

Apply for Tree Care Specialist

We believe that parks change lives by empowering communities to play, celebrate, recharge and engage. Every Oaklander and every Oakland community should have access to the transformative experiences that can only happen in parks. What fuels your passion for parks? Many of you tell us about celebrating birthdays at Lake Merritt, finding mentorship at a neighborhood recreation center or finding peace among the redwoods. Connections made during childhood mature during carefree summers at camp and deepen while watching your own kids at the playground. Join us as we lead a new wave of civic investment in our parks. Oakland thrives through its vitality, inclusivity and resilience with a beloved parks system that catalyzes equity and nurtures joy among its residents. Together, we can change individual lives and build a stronger, more connected future for us all.

Position Summary

Tree Care Specialists support the health and maintenance of trees planted by OPRF and its partners, with a focus on community greening across Oakland. This role includes manual watering and care for young trees, participation in planting events, volunteer support, and consistent field-based work across the project area. Team members are also encouraged to take on additional responsibilities based on interest and skill, including outreach, digital content, or training support. 

Responsibilities: 

• Hand-water young trees, using hoses and water containers.
• Maintain hundreds of City street trees and park trees, including young tree pruning,  stake adjustment and removal, trunk guard placement, and mulch/wood chip application.
• Manage equipment inventory and ensure a clean workspace.
• Maintain regular communication with the Project Manager and professionally liaise with City of Oakland representatives.
• Keep detailed records of your activities.
• Seek guidance from the Program Manager and escalate unanswered questions.
• Promote our programs, including street tree planting, to the community.
• Explore other activities based on your interests, such as social media, graphic design, GIS, etc.

Qualifications:

• Must be willing to work in the Project Area (Oakland) 
• Valid California driver's license and functioning vehicle. Mileage will be reimbursed.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Knowledge of urban forestry, horticulture, gardening, and landscape architecture. 
• Bilingual candidates encouraged to apply.

Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation (OPRF) is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. As an equal opportunity employer, we will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.