Campus Arborist at Whitworth University – Spokane, Washington

The Campus Arborist supports Whitworth’s mission by providing expert care, planning, and stewardship for all trees and shrubs on university-owned property. This role involves pruning, planting, diagnostics, disease and pest treatment, fertilization, and tree removals, while managing Whitworth’s Tree Campus USA certification and leading educational outreach that promotes sustainability and care for creation. The arborist works closely with faculty, students, and staff and provides guidance to student employees and volunteers.

Application review will begin the week of August 4, 2025. For full consideration, please submit your application by August 8, 2025. Position will remain open until filled.
Tree and Landscape Stewardship | 60%

• Perform skilled arboricultural practices including pruning, planting, removal, and tree health diagnostics.
• Lead implementation of Whitworth’s Tree Care Plan, including tree protection and replacement policies, and oversight of construction impact on trees.
• Maintain accurate tree inventory and GIS mapping database.
• Design and install tree and landscape improvements in collaboration with Grounds staff.
• Oversee the Tree Campus USA program including certification maintenance, chairing the Tree Committee, and planning Arbor Day and service-learning events.
• Create and deliver educational tree tours and sustainability presentations to campus and community audiences.
• Partner with faculty and student groups to integrate trees into sustainability, academic, and outreach efforts.

Grounds and Environmental Maintenance | 20%

• Apply pesticides and fertilizers safely and in compliance with regulatory standards.
• Maintain records of pesticide applications and attend relevant trainings to uphold certifications.
• Support seasonal grounds tasks including mowing, planting, watering, and pruning of turf, trees, and shrubs.
• Assist in snow and ice removal from walkways and campus roads.

Supervision and Student Engagement | 10%

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise summer student tree workers and seasonal grounds staff.
• Provide on-the-job training, mentorship, and corrective feedback to student workers and volunteers.
• Foster student engagement in sustainability practices and tree care efforts.

Departmental Support and Outreach | 10%

• Support department events and projects.
• Help maintain the Grounds Department’s social media presence with content related to trees, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Whitworth considers candidates with a wide range of educational backgrounds. We value the skills and knowledge candidates bring to Whitworth, regardless of the paths they have taken to acquire them.

• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet Whitworth’s campus vehicle policy.
• At least three years of professional experience in arboriculture, including pruning, planting, tree removal, pest/disease diagnosis and treatment, and plant health care.
• Current Washington State Pesticide Applicator’s License or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Ability to safely operate arboriculture and grounds maintenance equipment (e.g., chainsaws, lifts, tractors, sprayers, mowers, bucket trucks).
• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions, including climbing trees and lifting heavy equipment or materials (up to 70 lbs).

Core Competencies

• Demonstrated knowledge of tree biology, pruning methods, hazard evaluation, and pest/disease identification specific to the Pacific Northwest region.
• Strong commitment to personal and team safety with knowledge of industry best practices (ANSI Z133) and PPE use in tree care operations.
• Experience using digital tools and mapping software to track tree data and inform care plans.
• Commitment to sustainable landscaping practices and ecosystem care, aligning with campus sustainability goals.
• Ability to independently manage tree care programs, long-term planting plans, and seasonal maintenance cycles.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills; comfortable leading tours, training students, and engaging with diverse audiences about environmental topics.
• Willingness to work closely with faculty, staff, and students to support academic and operational goals related to tree care and sustainability.

Preferred Qualifications

• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification in one or more of the following:
  • Certified Arborist
  • Municipal Specialist
  • Tree Worker Climber Specialist
• Experience managing Tree Campus USA certification or similar urban forestry initiatives.
• Experience using GIS-based inventory systems (e.g., TreePlotter).
• Experience designing and leading community engagement activities such as service learning, tree plantings, and sustainability education events.

Schedule
Full-time (1.0 FTE) | 12 months | 40 hours per week
7 AM to 3:30 PM Monday–Friday

Whitworth University is a Christian liberal arts university. Our shared mission is to provide our diverse students with an education of mind and heart, equipping them to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. We seek candidates who are willing to engage with the university’s mission and integrate their Christian faith into their work.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, faith statement, and contact information for at least three professional references. A background check and sexual misconduct check will be required of the successful candidate.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain valid work authorization throughout the duration of employment, including those on OPT. Whitworth University does not offer visa sponsorship for this position.