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Urban Forestry Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger - Parks and Recreation

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$29.59 - $40.51/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Parks Technician - Plumber

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$38.91 - $48.37/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Instructor - Dance (Instructor I)

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$17.13 - $29.53/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Veterinary Fellow

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$82K - $113K/yr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Parks Technician - Plumber

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$38.91 - $48.37/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Head Guard (Lifeguard III)

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$21 - $23.28/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Park Ranger - Parks and Recreation

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$29.59 - $40.51/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Head Guard (Lifeguard III)

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$21 - $23.28/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Maintenance Laborer - Regional Parks

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$26.28 - $32.69/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Golf - Maintenance Assistant II

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$22.14 - $24.41/hr

The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds ...

Showing results 41-60

Urban Forestry information

See Renton, WA salary details

$32.6K

$46.7K

$60.2K

How much do urban forestry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban forestry in Renton, WA is $46,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,800.00 and $52,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is urban forestry?

Urban forestry is the care and management of tree populations in urban settings for the purpose of improving the urban environment. It involves the planning, planting, maintenance, and protection of trees in cities, towns, and other densely populated areas. Urban foresters work to enhance the environmental, social, and economic benefits that trees provide, such as cleaner air, shade, habitat for wildlife, and beautification. This field requires knowledge of arboriculture, ecology, city planning, and public engagement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in urban forestry, and why are they important?

To thrive in Urban Forestry, you need a solid understanding of arboriculture, tree biology, environmental science, and often a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, tree inventory systems, and certifications like ISA Certified Arborist are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and community engagement skills help professionals collaborate with the public and diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial for managing urban tree populations effectively, promoting environmental sustainability, and improving urban quality of life.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in urban forestry, and how can they be addressed?

Urban forestry professionals often encounter challenges such as managing tree health in densely populated areas, balancing public safety concerns with conservation goals, and addressing invasive species or diseases. These challenges can be mitigated by collaborating closely with city planners, community groups, and environmental agencies to develop sustainable urban tree management plans. Staying up to date with the latest research and best practices, as well as engaging in ongoing public education, are also key strategies for overcoming these issues.

What is the difference between Urban Forestry vs Arborist?

AspectUrban ForestryArborist
CertificationsCertified Arborist, ISA certification often preferredCertified Arborist, ISA certification typically required
Work EnvironmentUrban parks, city landscapes, municipal projectsTree care sites, residential and commercial properties
Job FocusManaging urban tree populations, planning, and policyTree pruning, removal, health assessment
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, urban planning agencies, environmental organizationsTree service companies, landscaping firms, private clients

Urban Forestry and Arborist roles both involve tree care, but Urban Forestry focuses on managing and planning urban tree populations at a broader level, while Arborists specialize in individual tree health and maintenance. Both careers often require similar certifications and work environments, but their scope and daily tasks differ significantly.

Are urban forestry jobs in demand?

Urban forestry jobs are in demand due to increasing urbanization and a focus on green infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. These roles often require knowledge of tree care, environmental science, and certification in arboriculture, with employment opportunities available in government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.

How to become an urban forestry professional?

To become an urban forestry professional, typically a bachelor's degree in forestry, urban forestry, environmental science, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in tree identification and management, and obtaining certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist can enhance job prospects.

What can you do with an urban forestry degree?

An urban forestry degree prepares individuals for careers managing and maintaining urban trees, parks, and green spaces. Job roles include urban forester, arborist, landscape planner, and environmental consultant, often requiring knowledge of tree biology, pest management, and GIS tools. Certification such as ISA Certified Arborist can enhance employment opportunities.

What job categories do people searching Urban Forestry jobs in Renton, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Urban Forestry jobs in Renton, WA are:

What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for Urban Forestry jobs?

Cities near Renton, WA with the most Urban Forestry job openings:

Infographic showing various Urban Forestry job openings in Renton, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,730 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Recreation Leader - Teen Center (Rec Leader I)

Parks Tacoma

Tacoma, WA โ€ข On-site

$17.13 - $19.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Description Based on our internal equity review process, the starting salary for this position will be $17.13. The current full hourly range for this position is $17.13 - $19.80. Join the community center team of Parks Tacoma

Provide exceptional service to patrons, participants, and community members while helping create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment at Parks Tacoma Teen Centers. Working closely with middle and high school youth, you will build positive relationships through daily interactions, recreational activities, engagement opportunities, and mentorship. Successful candidates are dependable, approachable, and passionate about both customer service and youth development.

**Applications are reviewed as they are received. This position will remain open until filled.** Work where you play. Join our team at Parks Tacoma to put your skills to use serving your community and making Tacoma a vibrant, healthy, and welcoming place to live

Who We Are Parks Tacoma is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Located in Tacoma, Washington, Parks Tacoma's mission is to create healthy opportunities to play, learn, and grow. The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds, four community centers, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Point Defiance Park, and much more.

Our work is guided by eight core values that are the foundation of our actions and goals: innovation, excellence, equity, inclusiveness, sustainability, accountability, safety, and fun. Why You'll Love it Here Come work with us and work where you play. You will contribute to the overall vitality and well-being of your community when you work for Parks Tacoma, and you'll do so as part of a supportive team of committed, passionate, and mission-driven professionals.

The people of Parks Tacoma are the key to its success, and you just might be the next great addition to our team. On top of that, you'll wake each day knowing that you're helping make Tacoma a great place to call home. Position Information Implement, lead and/or oversee programming and activities in an assigned program area In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to: Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.

Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers. Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments. Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.

Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards. Essential Duties Provide support to and collaborate with other Parks Tacoma staff as needed to assist with implementing recreation programs. Lead, instruct, and/or teach activities to participants using excellent citizenship, sportsmanship, and inclusivity.

Provide each participant the opportunity to succeed and grow their social skills through recreational opportunities. Understand, explain and up-hold program and facility expectations. Ensure program/facility rules, policies and procedures are followed; maintain and enforce safety standards.

Responsible for reporting all participant behavioral problems and incidents to appropriate staff and supervisor. Responsible for overseeing participants during program activities. Provide a positive attitude toward program participants and staff; encourage and serve as a positive role model.

Administer first aid as needed. Ensure proper use, care, and storage of program equipment. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications At least 21 years of age. Current CPR/ First Aid Certification (or able to obtain within 30 days of hire). Additional Information HOURS/SCHEDULE: Monday - Friday: 3:00 P.M

- 7:00 P.M. Up to 20 hours per week. COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS: Demonstrate thorough knowledge of assigned recreation programs, activities, and services

Demonstrate knowledge of safety guidelines and practices. Skill in overseeing and leading the work of others. Ability to handle conflict and solve problems using good judgement, patience, and courtesy.

Ability to navigate emergency situations. Work with diverse groups of people in a tactful, effective, and respectful manner. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, the community and program participants.

Follow instructions, both written and verbal. Ability to safely perform job tasks in a variety of park and non-park settings. WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Work is performed indoors and outdoors.

Driving a district vehicle, and transporting patrons, is required for some positions. Work various schedules including mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends. Ability to communicate with district employees and customers.

Noise level is moderately loud Standing for long periods of time. Walking, kneeling and/or crouching to demonstrate proper form. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on occasion.

Ability to navigate emergency situations, including performing CPR. PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor.

Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply. Parks Tacoma employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S

citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Parks Tacoma is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources at hr@tacomaparks.com. Employment is subject to a national background check

This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.