Forester

Position: Forester I DescriptionFoundation SummaryThe Robert R. McCormick Foundation is a leading philanthropic institution investing more than $75 million annually in Chicagoland, with a focus on improving economic opportunities on Chicago’s South and West Sides. The Foundation is named for its donor, Colonel Robert R. McCormick. The Foundation’s Board of Directors also oversees Cantigny, Col.

McCormick’s estate, which today provides educational and recreational opportunities in Chicago’s western suburbs.The 500-acre Cantigny estate includes McCormick’s Home and Gardens, which host dozens of programs and events annually for nearly half a million visitors; the First Division Museum, a military history museum that tells the story of the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division, beginning in World War I, in which Col.

McCormick served, to present; and Cantigny Golf, a 27-hole public golf course and a 9-hole short course, perfect for children and families.Position SummaryThe Forester I is a climbing Arborist position responsible for the care and maintenance of over 20,000 trees and shrubs located within the 500-acre estate of Cantigny Park and Cantigny Golf.

The Forester I assists the Forestry Manager and Lead Forester with the identification, coordination, and facilitation of all tasks related to forestry and arboricultural operations, assists with training and development of seasonal personnel and forestry interns in all tasks related to forestry and arboricultural operations, and applies McCormick Foundation values to achieve its mission effectively and efficiently, while providing a safe, educational, and aesthetically pleasing experience to its visitors.

This position also serves as a successor for landscape, trail, and production responsibilities through a structured knowledge-transfer period with senior forestry staff and performs field work previously supported by contract labor.Essential FunctionsPerform ‘at height’ tasks as a primary climber and aerial lift operator, to prune tree canopies, remove hazardous or broken branches, perform rigging operations, whole tree removal, and any other tasks that require an arborist to be at height in accordance with ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations.Responsible for the care and maintenance of trees, hedges, and shrubs at Cantigny Park and on the Cantigny Golf Course.

These responsibilities may include pruning, watering, mulching, spraying (pesticides when applicable), air spading, and whole tree removal in accordance with ANSI A300 Tree Care Standard Practices.Builds productive and collaborative relationships with colleagues and affiliated external partners with the ability to alter current tasks to participate in associated events.Follows and enforces all safety standards regarding PPE requirements and equipment used in tree work operations: chainsaws, power pole saws, wood-chipper, skid steers, mini skid steers, stump grinders, chip truck, and aerial lift trucks operated in accordance with ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements for Arboriculture Operations and OSHA Standards .Participates in the Forestry departments safety committee, which requires the coordination and training of the Horticulture department’s general safety guidelines appropriate for seasonal changes, weather events, Cantigny Park events, and the safe operation of tools and equipment according to OSHA and industry standards.Actively participates in the rejuvenation of Cantigny’s natural areas.

Long term monitoring and the annual removal of invasive species via Herbicide, mowing, the use of chainsaws and handsaws, controlled burns, and the reintroduction of appropriate native species.Utilizes knowledge and experience to properly execute a PHC (Plant Health Care) Program under the…