Senior Urban Forestry Planner | Elmhurst, IL (Elmhurst, IL, US, 60126) - The Davey Tree Expert Company

Position Overview

Davey Resource Group, Inc. is seeking experienced urban planning professionals to join our team throughout the Midwest and Great Lakes region. We are looking for collaborative individuals with strong written and verbal communication skills. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a commitment to professionalism, attention to detail, and a focus on safety. As a Senior Urban Forestry Planner, you will collaborate with DRG project leaders to plan and execute all aspects of urban forestry planning projects.

Job Duties

This position is primarily focused on providing senior-level project management and expertise, with a strong emphasis on sales and business development. Key responsibilities include preparing proposals, writing grants, networking, and identifying new client relationships and project opportunities. The role may also involve attending conferences and workshops, as well as participating in public speaking engagements.

The Senior Urban Forestry Planner will assist with project management/tracking, administrative duties, stakeholder meetings, public surveys, research, data collection and analysis, graphics, and plan preparation (writing, editing) along with other related duties. You will be an integral member of a project team and may participate and assist in meetings with municipal officials, community organizations, advisory committees, and other government agencies.  Depending on client budgets, travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, conservation, environmental science, or a related field is required.
• A minimum of eight years of experience in the natural resources field, with a focus on urban planning, arboriculture, urban forestry, horticulture, landscape architecture, or environmental resources, is preferred.
• Strong understanding of state laws and environmental regulations.
• Experience in municipal forestry is preferred.
• Direct experience in planning is preferred.
• Sales experience is an asset.
• Willingness to travel within the U.S. (travel expenses covered by the company).
• Ability to work flexible hours from a home office.
• Capable of following directions and working independently or as part of a larger team.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to foster a positive team environment and deliver high-quality solutions and client deliverables.
• High proficiency in English (both written and spoken).
• Knowledgeable in computer systems and GIS software.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required; proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Pro (PDF) is preferred.
• ISA certifications (Arborist, Municipal Specialist, TRAQ) are preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

The ideal candidate will excel in senior-level project management and have a strong track record in proposal preparation, grant writing, and sales-driven networking. They will be skilled in cultivating client relationships and preparing strategic plans, including data collection, analysis, and compelling graphics. Exceptional writing and public speaking abilities are essential, as well as a proactive approach to driving results and engaging stakeholders. A key priority is a strong emphasis on driving sales.

Additional Information

This is a full-time position with compensation based on qualifications and experience. DRG provides competitive wages, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to purchase company stock after one year of employment. A pre-employment drug screen and Social Security verification are required. The Davey Tree Expert Company and Davey Resource Group are Equal Opportunity Employers. Davey is proudly employee-owned.

What We Offer:*

• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Opportunities for advancement.
• All job specific equipment and safety gear provided.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.
• Employee-owned company and discounted stock purchase options.
• Group Health Plan.
• Employee Referral Bonus Program:  Send-A-Friend.
• Locations throughout the United States in major cities and desirable areas.
• Career Development Program supported by industry expert safety specialists and skilled trainers.
• The Davey Tree Family Scholarship for children of employees.
• Charitable matching gift program.

*All listed benefits available to eligible employees.

Company Overview

DAVEY RESOURCE GROUP, Inc., headquartered in Kent, Ohio has opportunities for persons interested in the field of urban forestry. We are seeking teamwork-oriented individuals with excellent written and oral communication skills. Candidates should possess a professional work ethic with attention to detail and safety. Davey Resource Group provides a wide range of natural resource consulting services to clients in the private and public sectors, including urban forestry consulting and tree inventories, urban forest canopy assessments, and urban forestry management planning. 

Divisional Overview