Independent Contractor Forestry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. Consumers Energy knows job number one is to keep the lights on for customers. We are committed to delivering reliable, clean, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7.
This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship, e.g., H-1B, TN, etc. Please do not apply if you will need immigration sponsorship for a work visa now or in the future, including sponsorship for H-1B, TN, etc., now or in the future. We are unable to hire individuals with CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT for this position as the position is not eligible for participation in the H-1B lottery program and is not eligible for current or future immigration sponsorship for a work visa.
Location: This position is onsite at the Saginaw Service Center located in Saginaw, Michigan. The selected candidate must be within a commutable distance or willing to relocate (relocation package is available for those that qualify).
GENERAL SUMMARY OF JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The Forestry Supervisor will be responsible for providing the Company with comprehensive forestry services. This will include conducting tree inventories, developing tree removal specifications, and overseeing tree removal contractors. They will also be responsible for developing and implementing complex vegetation management plans, as well as conducting tree risk assessments. In addition, they will be responsible for providing public education on the importance of trees and proper tree care.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Collaborate with other senior leaders and departments within CE to cross-train and mentor various field team members on forestry best practices
• Conduct on-site visits and "go-and-sees" to company assets on customer properties to assess tree health, identify potential risks, and recommend solutions. Prepare highly detailed reports outlining findings and recommendations for each site
• Lead storm restoration efforts with non-company crews for HVD and LVD systems
• Manage multiple complex, large-scale projects simultaneously, ensuring all deadlines are met. Perform quality control checks on completed projects. Review and approve all project proposals and invoices prior to submission
• Oversee contractor crews and monitor schedules, work assignments, and performance
• Serve as the most senior primary contact with customers and vendors, providing expert consulting services related to tree risk assessment, tree inventory, tree valuation, and tree removal. Assess and address customer concerns, ensuring resolution
• Other duties as assigned or may be necessary
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and GIS software
• Strong understanding of tree biology and risk assessment
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, or a related field with four (4) years of forestry experience, including experience working with utility companies
o (OR) Associate's degree with six (6) years of forestry experience, including experience working with utility companies
o (OR) High School Diploma/GED with eight (8) years of forestry experience, including experience working with utility companies
CERTIFICATIONS
• Must be able to obtain Arborist or Utility Specialist certification through the International Society of Arboriculture within 120 days of hire date. (Required)
• Must be able to obtain Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) Category 6 - Right of Way Pest Management within 120 days of hire date. (Required)
Why should you join our team?
At Consumers Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development, growth, and stability, and we take pride in offering our co-workers excellent benefits and compensation packages. We are deliberately creating an inclusive culture that makes our diverse team of co-workers feel valued, supported, and empowered every day. We're a company made up of thousands of people, all with different stories to share and work to do, but we stand united in our company purpose: world class performance delivering hometown service.
What we offer:

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, Dental and Vision
• 401k with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Up to 13 paid Holidays
• Paid time off
• Educational Assistance Program

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
We, at CMS Energy, value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. It is part of our DNA. We treat our employees with respect, we treat each other fairly and we value the opinions of others. We are passionate about building and nurturing an environment where everyone feels included. We don't discriminate. We seek to learn about each other and better understand our unique differences. Our uniqueness makes us authentic. We create safe spaces where everyone can be who they truly are. We invite difficult conversations and uncomfortable topics. We value diverse perspectives; this is what makes us great together. We harbor an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to share their backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. Our Employee Resource Groups, Women in Energy (WE), Minority Advisory Panel (MAP), Pride Alliance of Consumers Energy (PACE), GENERGY, capABLE, Interfaith and Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP) are key enablers to living the values of our company culture: Caring, Empowered, Deliberate, Agility, and Ownership.
All qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.