Independent Contractor Forestry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crew Member
Urban Forestry Pathways
Employment Type: Up to 40 hours (weekly)
Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm
Employment Classification: Independent Contractor
Start Date: program is on a 10 week rotation, four times a year
About the Program:
The Urban Forestry Career Pathways (UFOR) is a job training program for young adults who are looking to start a job in urban forestry, including tree care, greenspace maintenance, and other hands-on work. Participants will learn the phases of tree planting, safe tool use, pruning techniques, and arborist skills through structured, hands-on training with our partner, Trees Atlanta. You will work in Atlanta Beltline Arboretum greenspaces and in Atlanta neighborhoods to practice skills.
In addition to fieldwork, participants will receive professional job skills and personal development training through structured classroom sessions. This experience in the arborist industry can serve as a pathway to careers in tree care or environmental preservation.
Key Responsibilities:
• Assist in planting and maintaining trees along the Atlanta Beltline.
• Follow instructions from the team lead and Trees Atlanta partners to ensure safe and effective work practices.
• Learn and apply safe tool use, pruning techniques, and other arborist skills.
• Participate in structured training sessions to develop professional and personal skills.
• Engage in team activities and contribute to the overall success of the program.
• Maintain a positive and proactive attitude towards environmental preservation and community beautification.
Qualifications:
• Willingness to learn and engage in physical outdoor work.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Interest in environmental conservation and learning the benefits of trees in city neighborhoods
• Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic.
• No prior experience required; training will be provided.
Benefits:
• Hands-on training in tree planting and arborist skills.
• Professional development and personal growth opportunities.
• Opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment and the community.
• Potential career pathways in tree care and environmental preservation.
• Earn while you learn: Hands-on training in tree planting and tree care skills
UFOR Program Includes:
• 10 weeks of full-time, paid on-the-job training.
• Hands-on training outdoors with tree care professionals from Trees Atlanta, who will train and coach you in various tree care methods.
• Classroom sessions to prepare you for job hunting and the application process.
• Lessons on personal money management and financial fluency.
• Transportation assistance (prepaid MARTA card) and more.
• Opportunities to meet potential employers and receive support to set you on the path to a new career.
Eligibility Requirements:
• Age 18-30.
• Resident of a "CEJST” (climate and economic justice) area of metro Atlanta. Submit your application, and we'll verify.
• Commitment to attend for 10 weeks, Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm each day.

More about the goals of UFOR:
Trees make our neighborhoods better by keeping temperatures cooler, improving the environment, and helping to keep people healthier and well. We need trees in all communities, but especially where more trees can add environmental and economic benefits. UFOR's goal is to build a pathway to meaningful work that benefits individuals and their communities. This program will grow the number of people who can plant and take care of these powerful community resources, trees! The urban forestry industry is a multi-billion dollar employer nationwide, including here in Atlanta and across Georgia.

UFOR's ten-week workforce training program starts every 3 months. Applicants may be invited to participate in the next group once a class is full. Apply early.

The USDA Forest Service, through its Urban and Community Forestry Program, selected Trees Atlanta's proposal to create a workforce development and tree planting program in metro Atlanta area CEJST communities. UFOR's community partners – Greening Youth Foundation, Trees Atlanta, On the Rise Community Development Center, Atlanta Beltline, and USDA – are equal opportunity providers and employers.