FORESTRY GROUNDS PERSON – ENTRY-LEVEL

FORESTRY GROUNDS PERSON – ENTRY-LEVEL

Hours: Varies; Must be available for mandatory storm and emergency response

If you're dependable, safety-minded, and ready to build a hands-on career outdoors, this is your opportunity to grow with the City's Forestry team.

What You'll Do

Support the care, maintenance, planting, and removal of publicly owned trees throughout Fort Wayne. This entry-level position provides hands-on training and experience to help you advance within the Forestry Division.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare safe jobsites and provide dependable ground support to Tree Care Technicians during tree planting, maintenance, risk mitigation, and removal.
• Operate dump trucks, brush chippers, hand tools, power tools, and other forestry equipment safely and efficiently.
• Remove and process debris, secure loads for transport, and keep tools, equipment, and work areas clean and ready for use.
• Set up traffic signage, assist with traffic control, and work safely near busy streets and overhead utilities.
• Communicate clearly with the Forestry team, complete daily work reports, respond courteously to the public, and report safety or equipment concerns.

What You Bring: Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED; one to three months of related experience or training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to follow verbal and written directions and work effectively as part of a team.
• Willingness to work outdoors in changing weather conditions, including heat, cold, dust, and pollen.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
• A professional attitude, dependable attendance, and a strong commitment to workplace safety.

Required License

• Valid Indiana Driver's License within 180 days of hire.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Basic knowledge of hand tools, power tools, and chainsaw cleaning is helpful.
• Ability to read safety rules, equipment instructions, and maintenance procedures.
• Ability to perform basic math and complete routine reports.
• Comfortable working around loud equipment, moving traffic, and active tree-care operations.

Why Work for the City of Fort Wayne?

This is more than an outdoor job-it is an opportunity to learn a skilled trade, gain experience with professional forestry equipment, and build a career caring for the trees that make Fort Wayne's parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces safer and stronger.