Date of Posting: Wednesday, November 4, 2026
Department: Planning
Job Title: Urban Forester
Work Hours: City Hall Hours; flexibility to respond to tree-related emergencies.
Salary
$90,000 plus benefits
OVERVIEW
The City of Lynn seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic tree professional to serve as the City’s Urban Forester.
The Urban Forester will be responsible for overseeing the management, care, and preservation of trees within the City, with a focus on Lynn’s environmental justice communities. Primary duties will include assessing tree health, coordinating tree maintenance and planting programs, enforcing tree related regulations, inventorying existing tree canopy, and promoting community engagement in urban forestry initiatives.
The forester will work closely with the Planning Department, Department of Public Works (DPW), Community Development, Mayor’s Office, Elected Officials, Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and community members. This is a grant-funded position that is only funded for three calendar years.
Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Serve as the City’s Deputy Tree Warden. The forester will support tree warden responsibilities under MGL Ch. 87 and 41.
• Assess the health, stability, and condition of trees within the City, identifying potential risks and hazards. Develop and implement tree maintenance plans and processes to ensure the safety and health of the urban forest. Establish a tree inventory of public shade trees. Collaborate with city departments, contractors, and volunteers to execute tree care operations efficiently and effectively.
• Support planting new trees. This will involve coordinating with DPW crews, volunteers, and DCR urban foresters to assist with species selection, site selection, site preparation, community involvement. The forester would have access to the City’s municipally-owned greenhouse to support their work.
• Enforce tree-related regulations, permits, and ordinances, ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws. This may involve coordinating tree hearings, public notices, and permitting, in accordance with state law.
• Support communications and community engagement. Provide guidance and support to residents, businesses, and organizations regarding tree-related inquiries, concerns, and requests. Update City websites and collaborate with other departments to help spread information about ongoing tree programs. Find opportunities to work with individual residents or a Tree Committee to involve enthusiastic members of the community.
• Build long-term capacity for urban forestry in Lynn. We envision our forester will proactively seek out partnerships with local, regional, and state nonprofits who could continue this work in the long-term. Our forester may also identify grants, trainings, and other opportunities to build internal capacity for tree care at the city. The forester should also consider tasks like developing an urban forestry plan and documenting best practices to support urban forestry work over the long-term in the City. We expect our forester to stay updated on the latest arboriculture practices, urban forestry training by being involved with the Massachusetts Tree Wardens’ and Foresters’ Association, Massachusetts Arborists Association, International Society of Arboriculture and other urban forestry groups.
• Otherwise support Lynn’s urban forest. We would want to hear from the forester and community about what tasks would ultimately support our urban forest. Our grant allows for flexibility, and there is opportunity for the successful candidate to shape their day-to-day work. We think the forester could assist with green infrastructure projects, reviewing landscape plans for proposed projects, and more depending on interest and capacity.
Qualifications:
• Arborist Certification from a recognized organization such as The International Society of Arboriculture and Massachusetts Arborist Association Certified Arborist. A degree in Urban Forestry, Arboriculture, Horticulture, or a related field or significant progress toward such certification.
• A bachelor’s degree in urban forestry, arboriculture, or a related field OR a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in the field.
• Extensive knowledge of tree species, diseases, pests, and treatment methods relevant to Massachusetts.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal tree-related laws, regulations and permits.
• Strong understanding of tree care practices, pruning including ANSI A300 standards, planting, and maintenance techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to coordinate and manage tree care operations, including contractors and volunteers.
• Proficiency in using computer software and other cloud-based platforms that include tools for record-keeping and data analysis.
• Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and be able to lift 100 lbs.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Bilingual/bicultural candidates strongly encouraged to apply.
• When applicants are substantially similar in terms of qualifications, preference will be given to candidates who have resided in the City of Lynn for a continuous twelve-month period prior to the date of posting.
How To Apply
A completed application, including cover letter, can be submitted via:
- Email ([email protected])
- Regular Post
- In-Person at Human Resources, Room 307 in Lynn City Hall
If submitting via e-mail, please include the “JOB TITLE” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with priority consideration extended to candidates who apply on or before Friday, November 20th.
Job Title: "Urban Forester"
Closing Date: Open Until Filled (Application review will begin the week of November 23rd)
* When applicants are substantially similar in terms of qualifications, preference will be given to candidates who have resided in the City of Lynn for a continuous twelve-month period prior to the date of posting.
The City of Lynn is an Equal Opportunity Employer!
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If you have any questions about the application process or need assistance, please call (781) 598-4000 or email us at [email protected].