Assists the Manager 1, Facilities Operations (Landscape Superintendent) in the effective management of shop resources, including personnel, supplies, contracted services, equipment, and inventories associated with tree care and urban forestry operations. Provides direct operational and supervisory support to the Landscape Superintendent by overseeing front-line arborist staff in the field. Responsibilities include time and leave approvals, performance management, administration of the shop safety program, work scheduling through the CMMS, ordering parts and materials, and coordinating repairs, maintenance, and inventory of specialized equipment in collaboration with the Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance Shop.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare reports and estimates for time, materials, and labor related to tree removals, pruning, and planting; recommend equipment purchases as appropriate.
• Supervise tree-related emergency response activities and snow removal operations.
• Collaborate closely with the Landscape Planner to align arboriculture work and schedules with available resources, including the development of seasonal schedules for tree maintenance and health inspections.
• Communicate and coordinate tree maintenance activities with Zone Leaders, Building Coordinators, and department heads to ensure outdoor maintenance requirements align with operational schedules and campus needs.
• Assist the Landscape Superintendent in meeting and maintaining campus canopy and safety standards; serve in an acting capacity for the Landscape Superintendent when required.

Work Schedule and Conditions

• Position primarily operates on first shift; however, hours, days, shifts, and/or location may change as operational needs dictate.
• Subject to 24-hour emergency call for storm damage and hazardous tree conditions.
• In accordance with Disaster Preparedness and University State of Emergency Policy 6.17, this position is designated as essential short-term status and alternate long-term status.
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

Minimum Education Requirement

• High School diploma or GED.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of four (4) years of experience (six years preferred) in professional arboriculture, urban forestry, municipal tree maintenance, or campus/university tree care.

Desired Experience:

• Working knowledge of Ohio State University (OSU) systems, processes, and established procedures.
• Experience with employee coaching and performance management, or completion of department-designated training related to performance management/coaching within the probationary period.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across all levels of the organization.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• High level of technical expertise in arboriculture, including tree biology, pruning standards, rigging, and removals.
• Demonstrated history of safe operation of specialized equipment (e.g., aerial lifts, chippers) and vehicles.
• High standards of honesty, integrity, trust, openness, and respect for individuals.
• Flexibility, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently.
• Proven ability to build and lead effective teams and manage conflict constructively.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Working proficiency with Microsoft Office and other computer software; comfort using iPads, CMMS work management systems, and tree inventory/management software.