Urban Forestry Internship

The City of Lake Oswego is seeking two motivated interns pursuing careers in urban forestry, forestry, arboriculture, natural resources, horticulture, environmental science, GIS or a related field who are interested in gaining hands-on field experience. Working under the direction of the Urban Forester, interns will conduct a comprehensive inventory of City-owned ash trees located within the public right-of-way. This inventory is a critical component of the City’s Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Readiness and Response Plan and will provide the data needed to guide future management of Lake Oswego’s urban forest. 

This internship is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in municipal forestry, arboriculture, GIS, natural resources, or environmental consulting. Interns will receive training in tree inventory protocols, GIS-based field data collection, and Emerald Ash Borer readiness while contributing to a high-priority project with lasting benefits for the community.

Compensation: $24.00 per hour

Most days will be spent working outdoors throughout the City collecting tree inventory data using tablets, ESRI Field Maps, GPS technology, and standard forestry measuring equipment while working alongside another intern.

These temporary positions are expected to last approximately three months and are full time (40 hours per week), Monday through Friday, from 6:30 am – 3:00 pm. The anticipated work period is late July through September or October. 

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Identify and inventory ash trees within the public right-of-way using ESRI Field Maps GIS software.
• Collect and document tree species, location, diameter at breast height (DBH), height, condition, maintenance needs, and other relevant inventory data.
• Receive training on tree inventory protocols, EAB-related data collection standards, and the use of field equipment and GIS software.
• Work collaboratively with another intern to accurately collect data and install tree identification tags.
• Track daily and weekly progress and communicate regularly with the Urban Forester regarding project status and field observations.
• Manage time and workload effectively while working independently and as part of a team in outdoor environments and along public rights-of-way.
• Perform all assigned work safely and responsibly while following City safety procedures and applicable traffic and work zone safety practices.
• Assist in other related urban forestry and Public Works duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications: 

• Candidates must possess a valid Oregon Driver's License.
• Ability to safely operate City vehicles, equipment, machines, and tools.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and members of the public.
• Ability to manage time effectively and maintain accurate field records.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Coursework in urban forestry, forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, natural resources, environmental science, GIS, or related field.
• Knowledge of tree identification, particularly ash species and common native and urban trees of the Pacific Northwest.
• Experience with field-based data collection, GPS/GIS applications, or other mobile data collection platforms.
• Experience working independently in an outdoor field environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

This position requires working outdoors for extended periods in a variety of weather conditions and terrain. Work is performed along public streets and rights-of-way and may require exposure to traffic, uneven surfaces, and other field conditions.

Candidates must be able to:

• Walk for extended periods.
• Lift, carry, push, pull, bend, kneel, reach, and perform other physically demanding tasks.
• Safely operate vehicles, equipment, machines, and hand tools.
• Follow all City safety procedures and applicable traffic control and work zone safety practices.

Additional Employment Requirements:

• Successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screening.
• Participation in the City's electronic funds transfer (EFT) payroll program (Direct Deposit or Pay Card) is required.

Supplemental Information

The Department: The Streets Division of the Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining and improving the City's transportation infrastructure to provide safe, efficient, and reliable travel for the community. The division maintains city streets, sidewalks, signs, pavement markings, storm drainage systems, and related public assets. Ongoing tasks include street and sidewalk repairs, asphalt patching, traffic sign installation and maintenance, storm system maintenance, vegetation management within the public right-of-way, snow and ice response, emergency response, and operation of a variety of maintenance equipment. The Streets Division also supports citywide events, responds to weather-related emergencies, and works closely with other City departments and utility partners to keep Lake Oswego's transportation network safe and functional year-round.

Application Process: Please submit your resume and cover letter online. This recruitment is open until filled.

The City of Lake Oswego is committed to fostering a workplace where new ideas and diverse perspectives are valued. This involves hiring a workforce that reflects a variety of skills, expertise, and life experience, including those who may come from a non-traditional background. We will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience that meet the minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

The City is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state, or local law.