Arborist (MVO) Job in Washington, DC

Vacancy No. NC-1616-NAMA-25-12569273-DE Department National Park Service
Salary $33.61 to $39.26 Grade 10 to 10
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 10/11/2024 Close Date 10/28/2024
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Washington, DC


Summary

These positions are located at the National Mall and Memorial Parks, Division of Facility Management, Branch of Grounds and Trees.

Open to the first 30 applicants or until 10/28/2024 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.

This position is not eligible for remote work nor telework.

Duties

The major duties of the Arborist position include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Perform all phases of the tree maintenance activities including: operating heavy equipment, tree pruning, tree removal, stump grinding, tree climbing, anchoring, cabling, air spading pneumatic excavation, and all other phases of the most up to date arboreal practices.
  • Operates vehicles with gross vehicle weight in excess of 26,000 pounds up to 75 feet aerial platform, extendable boom, stake body and dump trucks, pick up trucks, chipper trucks, heavy duty forklifts, articulating loaders and snow plows.
  • Responsible for the health and safety of arborist team, frequently conducts safety meetings with peers to alert them of hazards which might be encountered and to instruct them on the safe operation of equipment.
  • Applies knowledge of arboriculture, horticulture, botany, plant physiology, tree crew operations, and general knowledge of plant pathology in performing daily assignments.
  • Determines and recommends the type of pruning or treatment needed to carry out the arboriculture program.
  • Applies knowledge of tools and equipment used in the arborist trade.
  • Performs rigging and removal techniques in topping, sectioning, lifting and removal of large and/or technical trees.
  • Capable of performing rigging and removal techniques in topping, sectioning, lifting and removal of large and/or technical trees. Can properly tie knots and hitches frequently used in tree climbing and rigging.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
  • Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males.
  • Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
  • You will be required to submit to a drug test and receive a negative drug test result prior to appointment. In addition, this position is subject to random testing for illegal drug use.
  • You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license is required. You will be required to submit a Motor Vehicle Operator's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
  • You must possess and maintain a current Class B (or higher) Commercial Driver's License within 6 months of start date.
  • You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
  • If you are a new employee or supervisor in the Federal government, you will be required to complete a one-year probationary period.
  • You must be an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)Certified Arborist, or a licensed Maryland State Tree Expert (DNR), or Massachusetts Certified Arborist.
  • Overtime may be required.
  • The position is considered essential during emergency situations.
  • Must be able to lift and carry 100 pounds.
  • Applicants must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:
  1. Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT)
  2. Technical Practices: theoretical precise, artistic
  3. Use of Measuring Instruments
  4. Ability to Interpret Instructions, specifications; other than blueprints
  5. Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
  6. Knowledge of Materials
  7. Dexterity and Safety
SELECTIVE FACTOR: This position performs tree maintenance, total tree removal and rigging and risk assessments of trees. This position is required to have at least one of the following certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), licensed as Maryland State Tree Expert (DNR), or certified by the state of Massachusetts. Candidates who do not meet this requirement by close of this announcement will receive no further consideration for this position.

Quality Ranking Factor: Applicants who currently possess a Class B CDL may be placed ahead of other applicants, however, you will not lose consideration solely based on not having this skill.

If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.

Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.

Additional information

This announcement may be used to fill additional positions if identical vacancies occur within 90 days of the issue date of the referral certificate.

A Recruitment Incentive May Be Authorized for a newly selected employee when appointed to a permanent, temporary, or term position. A Federal employee who is transferring to the National Park Service from another component, bureau or Federal agency and who does not meet the conditions under 5 CFR 575.102 is not eligible for a recruitment incentive.

A Relocation Incentive May Be Authorized for a Federal employee when the employee must move, as directed by the National Park Service (NPS) either through a management directed reassignment or selection for employment, to a different location at least 50 miles away from the one where his/her position of record held at time of selection is currently located, due to a need of the NPS. A relocation incentive is not the same as a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move and, as such, may be granted in conjunction with one another.
Please indicate in your application whether you possess a valid State drivers license.

Physical Demands: The position requires constant standing, walking, lifting, bending, stooping, and climbing to great heights. The incumbent works in tiring, awkward, uncomfortable, and dangerous positions while utilizing a hydraulic lift or a ladder, or climbing trees using ropes, climbing harnesses and other ascending and descending devices. Work requires heavy physical exertion; the incumbent often handles objects and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds using proper equipment and with the assistance of others.

Working Conditions: The work of the position is performed outside in all weather conditions. The incumbent is exposed to hot and cold temperatures, dust, dirt, mud, sawdust, chemical fumes, and sprays, as well as injuries from tools and serious injuries from falls. Works up to 80 feet when using a hydraulic aerial lift and works at heights approaching 120(+) feet when climbing trees using ropes, climbing harnesses and other ascending devices. PPE such as gloves, goggles, helmets, chaps, boots, and fall protection are provided by NPS. The ANSI, OSHA, and NPS CSMO standards will determine the differences between "should" and "shall". The position is considered essential during emergency situations. The position requires a CDL, Class B driver's license within 6 months of start date.

The National Park Service has determined that the duties of this position are NOT SUITABLE for telework.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

A review of your resume and supporting documentation will be made and compared against your responses to the Assessment Questionnaire to determine if you are qualified for this job. If your resume is incomplete or does not support the responses provided in the Assessment Questionnaire, or if you fail to submit all required documentation, you will be rated 'ineligible', 'not qualified', or your score will be adjusted accordingly. If a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications or experience, you can lose consideration for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully; errors or omissions can affect your rating.

Candidates will be rated and ranked using Category Rating procedures. These procedures place candidates with veteran's preference above non-preference eligibles within each category. Veterans with a service connected disability of at least 10 percent are listed in the highest quality category, except when the position being filled is scientific or professional at the GS-09 grade level or higher. Under Category Rating, candidates will be rated and ranked into one of three categories:

  • Best Qualified - applicants possessing experience that substantially exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are highly proficient in all requirements of the job and can perform effectively in the position
  • Well Qualified - applicants possessing experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in most of the requirements of the job
  • Qualified - applicants possessing experience that meets the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in some, but not all of the requirements of the job.
You will be evaluated on the following competencies and/or job elements:
  • Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More Than Normal Supervision
  • Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (Other Than Blueprint Reading)
  • Ability to Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
  • Commercial Driver's License
  • Dexterity and Safety
  • Knowledge of Materials
  • Technical Practices (Theoretical, Precise, Artistic)
  • Use of Measuring Instruments

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 10/28/2024:

  1. Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed. If military or civilian, please include your rank and/or grade.
  2. A complete Occupational Questionnaire
  3. Other Supporting Documents, if applicable, such as:
    • Veterans Preference Documentation:
      • If you are a Discharged, Non-Disabled Veteran, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 showing character of discharge (Member 4 copy), or other Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions, as listed on the SF15. If you don't have your DD-214, you may request it after discharge from the National Archives.
      • If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, & 6) dated within 120 days of your separation.
      • If you are a Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, or Mother or Spouse of a Disabled or Deceased Veteran, you must submit all additional proof required by the SF15, and if applicable, a completed SF15. You may request a copy of your Department of Veterans Affairs letter from www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to establish proof of disability.
    • Applicants who are eligible to be considered based on a Noncompetitive or Special Hiring Authority (i.e. Schedule A, VRA, Peace Corps, Americorp Vista, former PLC member, certain Military Spouses, 30% or More Disabled Veterans, Pathways Interns who have met the eligibility requirements for noncompetitive conversion, etc.) must submit appropriate documentation to verify your eligibility.
  4. Documentation that you meet Selective Factors.
  5. Documentation for Interagency/Career Transition Assistance Plan consideration if you are a displaced Federal employee within the local commuting area. You must include: 1) Proof you are a displaced Federal employee, e.g., RIF Separation Notice, Notice of Proposed Removal, etc; 2) SF-50s (Notifications of Personnel Action) showing career/conditional tenure competitive status, promotion potential and duty location; and 3) your most recent performance appraisal. To exercise selection priority, displaced or surplus Federal employees must be rated well-qualified or above 85 on the rating criteria for this position.
Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.

Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents. Adobe portfolio documents are not viewable by our agency's staffing offices.

How to Apply

To apply for this position: You must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. To receive consideration, the complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 10/28/2024.You must provide documentation to support your claim for each eligibility selected. Please review the required documentation listed in the eligibilities language to ensure you submit the appropriate information. Note: You will only be marked eligible for those eligibilities that you selected and provided the appropriate supporting documentation.

WE DO NOT ACCEPT HARD-COPY OR E-MAIL APPLICATION PACKAGES.

  1. Select Apply. If you are not logged in, you will be prompted to login or create an account.
  2. Prompted to Start the Application Process by selecting "Start Application."
  3. Select or add the resume you want to use for this application. Click here on how to build a resume in USAJOBS.
  4. Select documents you want included in this application.
  5. Review package to acknowledge your documents were reviewed.
  6. Select if you want to include your demographic information.
  7. After reading and certifying the application is true and submitted in good faith, select "Continue to Agency Site."
  8. Follow onscreen prompts and instructions to complete your application.
  9. Add the supporting documents by indexing your documents with the dropdown.
    • Upload any missing required documents or optional documents.
  10. Review and Submit Application.
  11. While logged in, you can check the status of your application by selecting "+" next to the job title for this position.
  12. You can review or revise your application at any point during the open period of the announcement.
    • To update an application, you should log into your USAJOBS account and select "+" next to the job title for this position. Select "Update Application" for this job.
    • Note: When you click Update Application, you will be prompted to re-select your documents from USAJOBS. Documents submitted with the first application will no longer be associated with the applicant record. So it is important that you select all documents you want to use in the re-application.
Please note: The eligibility section of the application process is designed to allow you to choose how you wish to be considered for this vacancy announcement. You will ONLY be considered for the appointment eligibilities that you select. You must provide the supporting documentation to support your claim. Please review the list of documentation provided in the eligibilities language to ensure you provide the appropriate information. You may choose more than one eligibility.

Agency contact information

Kara Gulvas
Address
National Mall and Memorial Parks
1100 Ohio Drive SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20024
US
Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once the Occupational Questionnaire is received you will receive acknowledgement that your submission was successful. If you are among the most qualified candidates and your name is referred to the hiring official, you may be contacted directly for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your Application Package at the time candidates are referred for consideration, and when the selection process is complete.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.


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